Grace Allen named 2025 Coca-Cola Leaders of Promise Scholar
Grace Allen, a student at Southern State Community College, is one of 220 Phi Theta Kappa members named a 2025 Coca-Cola Leaders of Promise Scholar and will receive a $1,000 scholarship. Grace is majoring in accounting and plans to graduate from Southern State in May 2026. She plans to transfer to a four-year college and obtain her Bachelor of Accounting degree.
The Coca-Cola Leaders of Promise Scholarship Program helps new Phi Theta Kappa members defray educational expenses while enrolled in associate degree programs. Scholars are encouraged to assume leadership roles by participating in Society programs and are selected based on scholastic achievement, community service, and leadership potential. More than 600 applications were received.
A total of $220,000 will be awarded this year through the Leaders of Promise Scholarship Program. The Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation provides $200,000 in funding for the scholarships, with $25,000 set aside for members who are veterans or active members of the United States military. The remaining amount is supported by donations to the Phi Theta Kappa Foundation, which provides multiple Global Leaders of Promise Scholarships earmarked for international students.
“The Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation has a long history of providing financial assistance to outstanding students at community colleges,” said Jane Hale Hopkins, President of the Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation. “We are proud to partner with Phi Theta Kappa to make it possible for more deserving students to achieve their educational goals and support tomorrow’s leaders of the global community.”
The funds provided by the Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation not only aid college completion but also allow students to engage in Society programs and develop leadership skills to become future leaders in their communities.
“Research shows that Phi Theta Kappa members are four times more likely to complete a college degree than their peers,” said Amanda Karpinski Gorman, Interim Executive Director of the Phi Theta Kappa Foundation. “. “The Leaders of Promise Scholarships recognize students for what they have achieved already and assure that financial need isn’t an obstacle to achieving their academic goals.”
Sam Ginn serves as PTK Advisor for Southern State and is responsible for the recruitment of new members, accompanying students to meetings/conventions, mentoring Chapter officers, and assisting them with the development of leadership skills and fundraising activities. "It comes as no surprise that Grace has earned this recognition,” Ginn stated. “Her strong academic drive and leadership qualities set her apart, and we are proud to have her represent our Phi Theta Kappa chapter at SSCC."
“I am delighted to congratulate Grace for receiving the prestigious Coca-Cola Leaders of Promise scholarship,” shared SSCC President Nicole Roades. “It is always an honor to see community college students recognized for their achievements and service. On behalf of Southern State, I congratulate Grace and extend my best wishes to her as she continues her education.”
About Phi Theta Kappa
Phi Theta Kappa is the first honor society recognizing the academic achievement of students at associate degree-granting colleges and helping them to grow as scholars and leaders. The Society is made up of more than 4.4 million members and nearly 1,250 chapters in 11 countries, with approximately 220,000 active members in the nation’s colleges. Learn more at ptk.org.