Terrance Coursey
Jul 12, 2025
Annual Scholarship Awards Brunch Celebrates Academic Excellence and Expands Educational Opportunity
Atlanta, GA — July 12, 2025 — The George M. Hughes Foundation proudly announced the awarding of $32,500 in scholarships to 15 exceptional high-school seniors during its annual Scholarship Awards Brunch, held at the offices of Kilpatrick Stockton in Atlanta. Supported by the Sigma Pi Phi Fraternity, the event honored students who exemplify academic excellence, leadership, character, and an unwavering commitment to their communities.
This year’s Scholarship Brunch not only recognized student achievement—it highlighted the Foundation’s ongoing commitment to educational equity. As families, fraternity members, supporters, and scholars gathered in celebration, the atmosphere reflected the heart of the Foundation’s mission: investing in Black brilliance and building pathways for generational success.
The Foundation’s work is rooted in the legacy of George M. Hughes, Sr., an educator whose life was dedicated to opening doors for young African American students. Today, that same spirit of opportunity lives on through the scholarships awarded each year, helping students overcome financial barriers and pursue their academic dreams with confidence.
2025 Scholarship Highlights
George M. Hughes Scholarship
Recognizing academic distinction and leadership• En’ya Touzé — $3,000• Elijah Pinckney — $3,000
Calvin O. Pressley Scholarship (Four-Year Award)
Honoring long-term leadership and academic excellence• Jordyn Walker — $2,500 annually for four years (Total: $10,000)
Benjamin Blackburn Scholarship
Celebrating achievement and future leadership• Caden Morris — $2,000• Amir Makle — $2,500 • Nicklaus Tucker — $2,500• Wynton Coleman — $2,500
Alan Pinado Scholarship
Recognizing determination, resilience, and academic promise• Cortland Gude — $1,000• Asad Mensah — $1,000• Bernard Johnson — $1,000• Daniel Gooden — $1,000• Elikia Kilandi — $1,000• Timothy McRae — $2,000• Kairo Bristol — $2,000• Michael Taylor — $1,000
A Powerful Investment in the Future
“These scholarships are more than financial awards—they are an investment in Black brilliance, leadership, and the promise of a stronger future,” said Kelly Smith, MPA, Scholarship Chairperson for the George M. Hughes Foundation. “Each scholar represents the excellence and determination that George M. Hughes envisioned when he committed his life to advancing educational opportunity.”
The event also highlighted the Foundation’s belief that education has the power to shift entire family trajectories. For many recipients, these scholarships represent the first critical step toward attending college, removing financial barriers, affirming their potential, and giving parents and guardians hope for a brighter future.
Throughout the brunch, guests heard stories from community members, past recipients, and Foundation leaders who emphasized the impact of this work. What resonated most was the shared understanding that scholarships do not simply fund education—they fuel dreams, inspire leadership, and empower our next generation of professionals, innovators, and changemakers.
Growing Impact & Community Partnership
The annual Scholarship Awards Brunch continues to grow in scale, visibility, and community support. The Foundation has seen increasing engagement from donors, fraternity members, corporations, and civic leaders who understand the importance of investing early in students’ lives.
Funds awarded are sent directly to scholars’ educational institutions, supporting tuition, books, technology, and essential academic expenses. The Foundation’s wraparound approach, which includes mentorship and professional development networks, helps scholars not just enter college—but thrive.
About the George M. Hughes Foundation
Founded to honor the life and legacy of educator George M. Hughes, Sr., the Foundation is dedicated to expanding access to higher education for African American students across Metro Atlanta. Through scholarships, mentorship programs, and community partnerships, the Foundation empowers young people to achieve their academic and professional goals, laying a foundation for lifelong success.
Media Contact
George M. Hughes FoundationWebsite: www.georgemhughesfoundation.org