SPRING GARDEN– Spring Garden High School graduate Emma Graham has received a $2,500 scholarship through the Alabama Power Foundation’s inaugural Community Scholars Program.

The Alabama Power Foundation announced the award Aug. 26. Graham represents Cherokee County among scholarship recipients from the foundation’s 59-county service territory.

Graham graduated from Spring Garden High School in May.

Graham Plans Criminal Justice Career

This fall, Graham will attend Auburn University at Montgomery and pursue a criminal justice degree.

She said the scholarship will help her continue her education without a financial burden.

“When I found out that I earned this scholarship, I was ecstatic because that meant I could further my education without any financial burden,” Graham said.

Additionally, Graham said the scholarship will help her pursue her dream career and fulfill her desire to help others.

“It means the world to me that I earned this scholarship because I will be able to pursue my dream job and fulfill my need to help others,” Graham said. “Thank you for this opportunity that helps support my future plans and dreams.”

The Alabama Power Foundation launched the Community Scholars Program in April. The program serves high school seniors living within Alabama Power’s 59-county service territory.

Additionally, applicants must demonstrate academic achievement, leadership, and commitment to their communities. The foundation awarded one scholarship in each eligible county.

Scholarship America reviewed more than 1,000 applications while administering the program.

According to the foundation, reviewers considered academic performance, leadership, school and community activities, work experience, and personal circumstances.

Meanwhile, Alabama Power Foundation President Staci Brown Brooks said the program reflects the organization’s belief in students throughout the state.

“We are proud to invest in students across our service territory whose leadership and talent will shape the future,” Brooks said.

The foundation said the scholarship supports students pursuing four-year degrees, community college programs, or vocational training.

Applications Open in October

For the next scholarship cycle, applications will open Oct. 12 and close Dec. 7. The cycle is available to students graduating during the 2026-27 academic year.

Applicants can review eligibility requirements and program information through the Community Scholars Program webpage.

Previously, WEIS Radio reported on a countywide grant celebration at Spring Garden High School, where funding supported education and other community projects across Cherokee County.

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