Where are they now? Early Co. Growth Scholars - Pt. 2

Waking Up Early  is published weekly in the Early County News.

One of the most important investments a community can make is an investment in its people. While infrastructure, buildings and businesses help drive economic growth, the future of any community ultimately depends on the young people who will one day lead it. Since 2022, the Development Authority of Early County has sought to support that future through the annual Early County Growth Scholarship, made possible through the generous support of Silicon Ranch Corporation.

The scholarship was established to assist outstanding young adults as they pursue higher education while encouraging them to maintain a connection to Early County and consider returning home after completing their studies. By supporting local students today, we are helping cultivate the future workforce, community leaders, educators, healthcare professionals, entrepreneurs and public servants who will contribute to Early County’s success.

The Growth Scholarship continues to make an impact. This week I caught up with more scholars that are already demonstrating the value of the investment.

Addison Brown, a graduate of Early County High School, recently earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Family and Consumer Sciences from the University of Georgia.

Earlier this year, she was selected as one of only four applicants accepted into the highly competitive Child Life Specialist Internship Program at the Children’s Hospital of Georgia in Augusta.

Addison will spend the summer in Blakely preparing for this next chapter before beginning her internship this fall. Following completion of the program, she plans to pursue child life specialist positions as close to Blakely as possible.

“I love this community and hope to remain close to home,” she shared.

Another scholarship recipient, Jane Anne Smith, graduated Magna Cum Laude from the University of Georgia in May with double majors in marketing and fashion merchandising, with an emphasis in brand management. She also earned a certificate in sustainability.

Jane Anne currently works for the University of Georgia’s Auxiliary Services Department, where she researches and writes grants, while also supporting operations at the UGA Golf Course through inventory management, vendor relations, and other administrative responsibilities. This fall, she will begin pursuing a Master’s degree in Public Relations through the Grady College of Journalism and Mass Communication at UGA.

The accomplishments of Addison and Jane Anne highlight why investing in local students is so important. Rural communities often face challenges in retaining talented young people, but by providing educational support and fostering a sense of connection to home, communities can help ensure that future professionals see opportunities to build their careers and lives locally. Every student who succeeds represents another opportunity for Early County to benefit from their knowledge, skills and leadership in the years ahead.

The Development Authority of Early County is currently accepting applications for the 2026 Early County Growth Scholarship. The total scholarship award is $4,500 and may be awarded to one or two recipients, depending on the recommendations of the Development Authority.

Applicants must reside in Early County, be a recent high school graduate enrolled in a post-secondary program for the 2026-2027 academic year, and demonstrate intentions of returning to Early County upon completion of their education. Applications will be accepted through Friday, June 26, at 5 p.m.

For additional information, visit the news section of www.developearly.com or contact Susanne Reynolds at susanne.reynolds@earlycounty.org or (229) 366-1952.

Applications for the 2026 Early County Growth Scholarship are being accepted from now until Friday, June 26 at 5 p.m. For application, please CLICK HERE or contact me at susanne.reynolds@earlycounty.org or (229) 366-1952. Applications can be picked up and returned/postmarked to the Chamber-Development Authority Office, Attn: Development Authority of Early County, 214 Court Square, Blakely, GA 39823.

By investing in people today, the Development Authority of Early County is investing in the people who will help shape its future tomorrow. This folks is why it matters.

Published in the Early County News June 17, 2026.