Although doing good is often its own reward, a Gwinnett County high school senior found out that hard work and caring for others sometimes brings unexpected good things your way.
Karissa Jackson, a Discovery High School student, has been awarded a $100,000 scholarship by music power couple Beyonce` and Jay-Z.
The millionaire moguls best known for chart-topping albums and savvy business deals combined their non-profits, Beyonce`s BeyGOOD Initiative and Jay-Z's Shawn Carter Foundation, to create a new scholarship program for exceptional high school seniors.
Jackson was selected for her excellence in the classroom, as well as for her leadership and work in the community. The aspiring social worker and longtime member of the Lawrenceville Boys & Girls Club has taken part in road cleanups and community beautification projects, mentored younger students and participates in a program that provides holiday meals and meals for military families.
Winning the scholarship is humbling, Jackson said.
"I feel that the scholarship is a true blessing," she added. "It is just amazing that somebody took the time to notice and recognize the potential I have. I am inspired by my Boys and Girls Club staff and members, as well as many Gwinnett County Public Schools teachers who have truly touched my heart and promoted the ideology of a citizen that is active in their community. I am extremely grateful and overjoyed to be the recipient of such a prestigious scholarship given by living legends."
The BeyGOOD Initiative and the Shawn Carter Foundation will award more than $1 million in $100,000 scholarships. Each recipient will have $100,000 put toward their enrollment and the award will serve as a dedicated university-based fund for each selected student throughout the duration of their enrollment.
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