Two Richmond County School System (RCSS) students were named recipients of the 2026 Gates Scholarship on April 20, 2026. A.R. Johnson Health Science and Engineering Magnet School salutatorian Rhali Adams-Johnson and George Collie, salutatorian of Cross Creek Comprehensive High School, are among only 750 students selected from a pool of over 61,000 applicants nationwide to receive the distinction.

"It is an incredible achievement to have two students from Richmond County recognized as Gates Scholars," said Shawnda Stovall, president of the Richmond County Board of Education. "Rhali and George have demonstrated remarkable perseverance and leadership throughout their high school careers. They represent the very best of our district, and their success serves as an inspiration to every student in our community.

The Gates Scholarship is a last-dollar scholarship that helps to provide a full ride to any accredited college or university in the United States. The program recognizes students who have demonstrated outstanding academic achievement and leadership.

Collie is an AP Capstone diploma recipient and STAR Student honor recipient, served as Beta Club President and Debate Team Captain. After graduation he intends to pursue a career as a CPA. Adams-Johnson, who also earned STAR Student honors and the Georgia Certificate of Merit, held leadership roles as SkillsUSA President and captain of the Reading Bowl and Science Olympiad teams. Following graduation, she plans to major in computer science at a four-year university.

The Gates Scholarship, funded by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, is a highly competitive program that identifies students who excel beyond the standard curriculum and show strong potential for leadership. Ideal candidates are students who rank in the top 10% of their graduating class and demonstrate a record of service and personal success. Beyond helping cover the full cost of attendance, the scholarship provides recipients with professional development opportunities, mentoring, and a support network designed to ensure they thrive throughout their collegiate journey and professional lives.