$100000

Sneakers and Scholarship Ball slideshow. Photo credit: Allison M. Slocum, APS ©

Twenty Atlanta Public Schools (APS) seniors were awarded $5,000 scholarships each, totaling $100,000, at the second annual Sneakers and Scholarships Ball. The scholarship program was created to provide community and school stakeholders with the opportunity to invest in the futures of students who have demonstrated exceptional academic performance, resilience, and determination.

Nearly 300 students applied for the scholarship, which required recommendations from school counselors or principals and a final review by a selection committee.

“This is a great event to bring our philanthropic community together and show how they’ve invested in our students,” APS executive director of Partnerships and Development Joi Hunter said. “As they graduate high school, they will not be alone.”

In addition to the student honorees, five distinguished APS alumni were recognized for their contributions to the advancement of Atlanta as examples of the long-lasting impact of the district’s educational foundation.

Key donors, including Chick-fil-A, Verizon, Peach State Community Fair, and Coca-Cola, were acknowledged for their commitment to support educational and eleemosynary efforts.

Atlanta mayor Andre Dickens reminded students of their potential and the city’s belief in their promise.

Trailblazer and alumni awards, Mayor Andre Dickens, and the ASP Partnership and Development team. Photo credit: Allison M. Slocum, APS ©

“You are the city’s future leaders, and we expect big things from you,” Mayor Dickens said. “When we invest in you, we’re also making an investment in Atlanta’s future. An APS education can carry you as far as your dreams can take you.”

APS Superintendent Dr. Bryan Johnson praised the students for exemplifying the three G’s: growth, grit, and graduation, and applauded their ability to think critically, problem-solve, and execute their plans towards success.

“Hope is important,” Dr. Johnson said. “For students to aspire and achieve at high levels is important. These students are exemplars. We look to replicate this across the district and see all our scholars have that opportunity.”

With growing support from community partners and a continued focus on student success, the Sneakers and Scholarships celebration is quickly becoming a cornerstone of the district’s efforts to celebrate and support academic achievement. Chick-fil-A has already committed to doubling its contribution next year, bringing its total scholarship support to $50,000 for next year’s graduating class.

Here are the 2025 scholarship recipients and award winners: