DARC Scholar Awards

The Development Authority of Rockdale County believes a strong economy starts with strong people. Since our 2021 planning retreat, the Authority has awarded scholarships to graduating seniors across Rockdale County Public Schools. At $15,000 each year, the DARC Scholar Awards are the largest scholarships in Rockdale County, and the Authority is working to grow them. Students research a real challenge facing our community, in healthcare, education, labor needs, the environment, income inequality or entrepreneurship, and present a practical, sustainable solution to a panel of judges in a science-fair format.

2026 Scholar Awards: $15,000

More than 100 students entered the 2026 competition. After 27 finalists presented their projects at final judging on April 24, 2026, nine seniors shared $15,000 in scholarships at our awards ceremony at the Rockdale Career Academy on May 5, 2026.

• Olivia Howard-Bashir, Rockdale Magnet School for Science and Technology: Project Threads, a student-led clothing distribution center in each RCPS high school. Attending Kennesaw State University.
• Magic Boyd, Rockdale Magnet School for Science and Technology: expanding access to healthcare regardless of income or location. Attending Georgia State University.
• Reagan McCollors, Heritage High School: the Rockdale Green Business Project, encouraging environmentally safe and renewable-energy business practices. Attending the University of West Georgia.
• Jehosheba Sylvestre, Rockdale Magnet School for Science and Technology: a sustainable credit-recovery program to improve graduation outcomes. Attending Clark Atlanta University.
• Jayla Brown, Heritage High School: improving community health outcomes through accessible, science-based solutions. Attending South Carolina State University.
• Adilenne Lopez, Rockdale County High School: Virtual Home Nurse. Attending Augusta University.
• Simari Scott, Salem High School. Attending Georgia State University.
• Muna Yassin, two-time DARC Scholar.
• London Fannin

2025 Scholar Awards: $15,000

In 2025 the Authority invested $15,000 in eight graduating seniors from Heritage, Salem, Rockdale County and the Rockdale Magnet School.

• Kayden Henry, Heritage High School
• Joy Douphin, Salem High School
• Christian Bridges, Heritage High School
• Daniel Menghisteab, Rockdale County High School
• Karen Matthews, Heritage High School
• Joshua Cain, Heritage High School
• Dayana Theus, Rockdale County High School
• Muna Yassin, Rockdale Magnet School for Science and Technology

Congratulations to all of our DARC Scholars!

Partner With Us

If you are interested in partnering with the Development Authority and donating to our scholarship efforts, you may email us at vkbennett@gmail.com.