MYA WATKINS

KINGSFORD — Mya Watkins, a senior at Kingsford High School, has been named a semifinalist for the 2024 Class of the Coca-Cola Scholars Program.

Approximately 1,514 high school seniors were selected as semifinalists from a pool of over 103,800 submitted applications from across the country based on their academic excellence, leadership and service demonstrated in school and community activities. The semifinalists are in the running for 150 college scholarships worth $20,000.

Watkins is the daughter of Andrew and Julie Watkins of Breitung Township. She is an exceptional student who is ranked in the top 10% of her class.

Watkins has participated in a variety of extracurricular activities throughout high school where she has been able to demonstrate her leadership abilities, making her a standout among her peers.

She was selected her sophomore year to attend the MYLead Leadership conference, selected to represent the student body as a Flivver Way Ambassador, has served as junior and senior class president, Key Club secretary, French Club president, and as service chair for the National Honor Society. She is held in high regard by her peers and the Kingsford High School staff and administration for her outstanding character and friendly demeanor.

“We believe that identifying these young leaders throughout the country and encouraging their passion for serving others not only empowers the students, but also lifts up those around them,” said Jane Hale Hopkins, president of the foundation. She also explained, “The Coca-Cola system is dedicated to giving back to the communities they serve, and the Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation is proud to be a part of that commitment.”

Semifinalists were invited to complete phase two applications, which include essays, a recommendation, and a transcript. An independent selection committee will review the applications and recommend 250 regional finalists in early January to take part in online interviews.

There will be 150 Coke Scholars named in late February to receive a $20,000 college scholarship and attend Coca-Cola Scholars Weekend in Atlanta from April 25 through April 28, 2024, where they will be the guests of honor at the 36th annual Coca-Cola Scholars Banquet and participate in the Coca-Cola Scholars Leadership Development Institute facilitated by program alumni.