Bridgette Buffington, Luke Easterwood, Valerie Garland, and Trae Krouse, 2009 graduates of Armuchee High School, have been chosen as recipients of the third annual Thomas G. Harris Scholarship. The scholarship is a four-year award providing room and board for a student who is attending a Georgia college on the HOPE Scholarship. Traditionally, two Armuchee students are selected each school year; however, this year the Thomas G. Harris Scholarship Program graciously honored all four applicants.

Bridgette Buffington plans to attend Shorter College in the fall pursuing pre-med or nursing as her major. She states, “This scholarship will ensure that I am financially secure for the next four years.” It is Bridgette’s hope to continue her studies in either anesthesiology or radiology after college. Luke Easterwood plans to obtain a degree from Georgia Southern in technical writing, making complex ideas easier to understand. Valerie Garland, who will attend Kennesaw State University in the fall, comments, “I am so blessed that I will not be facing student loans after college graduation.” Valerie plans to obtain a masters degree in social work. She plans to focus on a career in adoption and foster care. Trae Krouse, who will attend Berry College in the fall, it is his goal to become a neurosurgeon. Trae said, “I am thankful for this opportunity, which is helping me and my family.” He would like to practice medicine in a metropolitan city in order to help as many people as possible.

Thomas G. Harris, for whom the scholarship is named, taught math and coached basketball during his 41-year career at Armuchee High School. Highly respected in his ability to teach math, Mr. Harris’ roles extended beyond coaching and teaching. He became assistant principal in 1947 and also led the development of programs, activities, and enduring traditions. Thomas G. Harris’ legacy continues to affect Armuchee’s graduates, even today.