2015 weekend guidebook text proof

CONNECTIONS

A GUIDE TO THE 2015 COCA-COLA SCHOLARS WEEKEND APRIL 16–19, 2015 ATLANTA, GA

THIS BOOK IS CONNECTED TO: NAME __________________________________________________ EMAIL __________________________________________________ CELL PHONE

__________________________________________________

TITLE

2015 COCA-COLA SCHOLAR

STATUS

CITIZEN OF THE WORLD OF COCA-COLA

DESTINATION ATLANTA, GA, USA ARRIVAL

APRIL 16, 2015

DEPARTURE

APRIL 19, 2015

©2015 Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation P.O. Box 442 Atlanta, GA 30301-0442 Information included within this booklet is intended for information only and not for distribution or publication.

“as one of the original scholars, it has been a true blessing seeing the ‘make a difference’ family grow each year. you all have a lot to teach the world, but most importantly, a world to learn about from each other. this weekend is just another stop on your journey with people who will be your travel companions for life. sit back, relax and enjoy the ride; soon it’ll be your turn to drive.”

— thomas king, class of 1989

COCA-COLA SCHOLARS FOUNDATION

2015 COCA-COLA SCHOLARS

April 2015

Dear 2015 Coca-Cola Scholar: We are anxiously awaiting your arrival to the Coca-Cola Scholars Weekend. To help you prepare, we have created a guidebook to the Scholars Weekend and your fellow Coca-Cola Scholars of 2015. This book will acquaint you with one another and hopefully provide a glimpse into what we believe will be a very exciting weekend. Please review the guide at your earliest convenience and contact our office if you have any questions.

TRAVEL / SCHOLARS WEEKEND MATERIALS You will be required to show photo identification at the airport prior to boarding. Any one of the following items is considered acceptable and should be in your possession at all times: •

Driver’s License • State Issued Photo ID • Passport

Because many of you will be arriving by air — and perhaps flying for the first time — this book contains: • “What to Expect When You Arrive” (Instructions which include information for those of you who are driving as well!)

• Hotel

Details and Emergency Travel Phone Numbers

If you will be traveling to Atlanta by air, your airline ticket information covering travel to and from the Scholars Weekend has been sent to your email address.

PLEASE TAKE NOTE NOW OF YOUR DEPARTURE DATE AND TIME (THIS COULD BE ON WEDNESDAY, APRIL 15).

You will need a printed copy of your flight schedule on your day of travel.

If you have not received your flight schedule or need to report a problem, please contact us immediately.

A Coca-Cola luggage tag is enclosed for your use; this will make identification at the airport and the hotel easier.

A Coca-Cola Scholar shirt is also enclosed. We hope you will wear this on the day of travel as a means of helping us to easily identify you when you arrive.

Inside this book is a tentative itinerary of your activities for the weekend. If you have any questions about travel or other details pertaining to your trip, please call us at 1-800-306-2653 (COKE). We will be happy to assist you. We look forward to seeing you in Atlanta, and wish you safe travels.

– Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation Staff

“we shall never cease from exploration and the end of all our exploring will be to arrive where we started...and know the place for the first time”

— t.s. elliott

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welcome to our scholar family!

It begins with a letter and an email inviting you to attend a special orientation weekend in Atlanta.

When you arrive, you meet your roommate — your first true link to the Scholars program. But then you meet other Scholars, those in your class as well as “ambassadors” from other years...and the Scholars Foundation staff who, like the “man behind the curtain” in The Land of Oz, make it their job to make the program work for you.

Throughout the weekend, you will continue to meet more and more people who are linked to the Scholars Program and want you to know that they’re there for you as well.

By the time you leave on Sunday, you may possibly have made more new friends in three days than you have made throughout your entire high school career.

Consider yourself “forever connected” to the ever-growing, ever-changing world of the Coca-Cola Scholars family!

Many of the people you will meet this weekend will be Coca-Cola Scholars from previous years who are taking time to meet you and to make themselves available to answer your questions about college, careers, small town vs. urban sprawl lifestyles... whatever! But they’re not the only ones who are excited to hear you’ve arrived.

The following are a few “welcomes” from past Scholars reminding you to make the most of your Scholars Weekend!

“one aspect of the scholars weekend that i’ll always remember was the instant bond that formed among the scholars. it was as if we had known one another for years instead of hours. the worst part of the weekend was saying goodbye. after this weekend, you will understand and remember these words. have a great weekend!”

— marvin j. davies, iii, class of 1992

“scholars weekend immediately transforms you, connecting you with so many future leaders of influence. so make some friends, write down some email addresses and hang on. the reach of this group of scholarship students is, and will be, broader than you could ever imagine.”

— j. scott jennings, class of 1996

“your scholars weekend is sure to be one of the most memorable and exciting times of your senior year. but it doesn’t end there! you are now a part of a unique family of people who care about your future and care about you. this is what makes us different from other programs. you will meet people this weekend who will work with you all through college, and you’ll make friendships that will last a lifetime. enjoy your weekend, be proud of your accomplishments and most of all, remember: you are coca-cola scholars, one of the most prestigious recognitions a college student can have. ­ congratulations once again!”

— derek

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martin, class of 1998

COCA-COLA SCHOLARS FOUNDATION

2015 COCA-COLA SCHOLARS

what to expect when you arrive (or, how to guarantee a safe and happy trip to atlanta)

Atlanta Airport any time on Thursday, April 16, before 12 p.m. (noon). Also, please keep in mind that you will need to be picked up from the hotel by 10:30a.m. on Sunday. The hotel is located at 4736 Best Road Atlanta, GA 30337.

FOR THOSE OF YOU ARRIVING AT HARTSFIELDJACKSON INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT… Upon arrival to your gate, follow the signs to the rapid rail system at your arrival concourse. This rapid rail system will take you to Baggage Claim in the main terminal. Make sure to exit the train at Baggage Claim, the last stop. Take the escalator up into the main terminal. At the top of the escalator, BEFORE entering Baggage Claim, you will be greeted by Coca-Cola hosts wearing red shirts and holding a “Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation” sign. Check in with the host who will then direct you to your Baggage Claim carousel. In Baggage Claim, you will be greeted by other Coca-Cola hosts who will assist you with your luggage and direct you to the departure location for the Coca-Cola bus taking you and other Scholars to the Westin, Atlanta Airport.

Should your flight arrive at a gate on Concourse T, it will not be necessary for you to take the train.

Simply follow the signs to Baggage Claim. Look for a Coca-Cola host holding a Coca-Cola sign and wearing a red shirt near the exit of the concourse. From there, s/he will direct you to your Baggage Claim carousel, assist you with your luggage and direct you to the departure location for the Coca-Cola bus taking you and other Scholars to the Westin, Atlanta Airport.

FOR SCHOLARS DRIVING TO ATLANTA...

If your parents or guardians are driving you, follow the driving instructions on the following page and have them drop you off at the motor lobby of the Westin,

If you are driving yourself, please follow the driving instructions on the following page to the Westin Hotel.

Upon arrival, you should valet park in the motor lobby and look for a greeter holding a “Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation” sign and wearing a Coca-Cola shirt. Give your parking ticket to the Coca-Cola Chaperone at the check-in desk for payment. A reimbursement form will be provided to you for driving-related expenses.

WHEN YOU ARRIVE AT THE WESTIN...

Your hotel reservations have already been made for you and roommates have been pre-assigned.

You will be directed to a special check-in desk in the main lobby where the Coca-Cola Chaperones will be waiting. You will receive a complete information packet. Room costs and scheduled meal expenses will be paid by the Foundation. However, any other expenses incurred (e.g., room service, phone calls, etc.) will be the responsibility of the individual student and must be paid at check-out. Chaperones and staff members of the Scholars Foundation will be on duty at the hotel to handle any questions or emergencies should they arise.

SHOULD YOU HAVE ANY TROUBLE ON THE DAY OF YOUR DEPARTURE TO ATLANTA, PLEASE CONTACT ANY OF THE FOLLOWING: Christine Lawry, Meetings that Move (404) 275-0600

Ericia Ward-Williams, Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation (404) 862-5157

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2015 COCA-COLA SCHOLARS

COCA-COLA SCHOLARS FOUNDATION

hartsfield-jackson atlanta international airport

http://www.atlanta-airport.com/

COCA-COLA HOSTS

4736 Best Road Atlanta, GA 30337 Tel: (404) 762-7676

WHAT TO PACK FOR SCHOLARS WEEKEND • For photo examples, you may view “Clothes to Pack for Scholars Weekend,” a document in the 2015 Coca-Cola Scholars Facebook group.

•

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Business attire for the Banquet Men - Suit or jacket and tie Women - Dressy evening outfit or suit; the ballroom tends to be chilly, so bring a jacket or sweater

•

Comfortable casual clothes for tours and other daytime activities

•

Jeans (long pants), a T-shirt and closed-toe shoes for the volunteer service project (clothes you don’t mind getting dirty!) - no shorts or flip flops

•

Pack your most important items (such as Banquet attire) in your carry-on bag

•

Souvenir money

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Sunglasses

•

Hair dryers and irons are provided in each room

•

Be sure to check the weather - Atlanta is not always “Hotlanta!”

DIRECTIONS FROM I-285 WESTBOUND Take Exit 60 and turn right on Riverdale Road.

Proceed through 5 traffic lights and over Interstate 85. After the fifth light, turn left onto T. Owen Smith Boulevard.

Go right on Best Road. The hotel is on the left.

DIRECTIONS FROM I-75/85 SOUTHBOUND Take the I-85 South split, Exit at Riverdale Road.

Turn right off the exit and then take the first left onto T. Owen Smith Boulevard.

Go right on Best Road; the hotel is on the left.

DIRECTIONS FROM I-20 EASTBOUND Take I-20 East and proceed south on Interstate 75/85, then follow SOUTH directions above.

DIRECTIONS FROM I-85 NORTHBOUND Take Exit 71 (Riverdale Road).

Turn left off the ramp and go over I-85.

Take the first left (T. Owen Smith Boulevard).

The road will curve left until it intersects with Best Road.

Turn right on Best Road. The hotel is on the left.

COCA-COLA SCHOLARS FOUNDATION

2015 COCA-COLA SCHOLARS

welcome to atlanta!

Atlanta’s central thoroughfare, Peachtree Street, follows the route of an old Indian trail. The Carter Presidential Center, located near historic Emory University (a.k.a. “Coke U”), was founded as a center for the study of worldwide concerns by former President Jimmy Carter, who had previously served a distinguished career as governor of Georgia. Turner Field, home to the 1995 National League Champion Braves, sits next door to the historic site where Hank Aaron hit his legendary record-breaking home run in 1974. The headquarters for The Coca-Cola Company, one of the largest corporations in the world, is within minutes of the site where the Coca-Cola formula became famous.

Atlanta played host to the 1996 Olympic Games, Super Bowl XXXIV, and several World Series at Turner Field. But this April, Atlanta will host another type of celebration, small in size but equally as impressive: The honoring of the 27th class of Coca-Cola Scholars — bringing our total count of selected Scholars to more than 5,550. While their

arrival may not be as dramatically imposing as General Sherman’s, and their presence not quite as overwhelming as the crowds at Turner Field, we have no doubt that the 2015 Coca-Cola Scholars will remember - and be remembered by Atlanta long after they have gone to college.

Perhaps the most vivid image of Atlanta is the torching of the Confederate city during the American Civil War as it was recreated in the film Gone With the Wind.

Today Atlanta is the crossroads of the southeastern United States. Home to Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (rated the busiest airport in the world), and the “hub” of several major interstate highways, Atlanta has become known through the years as the “Empire City of the South.”

When the city was made the state capital in 1868, it became the symbol of the New South and its hopes of prosperity. But even during its growth and development, Atlanta has managed to preserve the connections to its past.

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COCA-COLA SCHOLARS FOUNDATION

schedule

THURSDAY, April 16

FRIDAY, April 17

SATURDAY, April 18

SUNDAY, April 19

7:30 a.m. – 9:30 a.m.

Breakfast at Hotel

7:00 a.m. – 8:30 a.m.

Breakfast at Hotel

7:00 a.m. – 8:00 a.m.

Breakfast at Hotel

6:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m.

Breakfast at Hotel and Departures

8:00 a.m. – 12 noon Scholars Arrive

8:00 a.m. – 11:45 a.m.

Leadership Development Institute

8:00 a.m. – 11:45 a.m.

Leadership Development Institute

11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.

Scholars Lunch at Hotel

11:45 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.

Lunch at Hotel and Load Bus

GROUP A 11:45 a.m. – 1:15 p.m.

Change Clothes/Lunch 1:15 p.m. - 1:45 p.m.

Debrief with Mark Davis GROUP B 11:55 a.m. - 12:25 p.m.

Debrief with Mark Davis 12:25 p.m. - 1:45 p.m.

Change Clothes/Lunch

1:00 p.m. – 1:45 p.m.

Dress for Banquet

1:30 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.

National Center for Civil & Human Rights

1:45 p.m.

Load Bus and Depart for Atlanta Food Bank

1:45 p.m.

Load Bus and Depart for Banquet

4:15 p.m. – 5:30 p.m.

World of Coca-Cola

2:45 p.m. – 5:45 p.m.

Community Service

2:30 p.m. – 3:30 p.m.

Scholars Orientation

6:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.

Dinner at Hotel

6:30 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.

Hotel to Change Clothes

3:40 p.m. – 4:20 p.m.

Scholars Rehearsal

7:40 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.

Coca-Cola Ambassadors

4:30 p.m. - 5:30 p.m.

Holding Room

8:00 p.m. - 10:00 p.m.

Big Game Show

7:15 p.m Load Bus and Depart for The Coca-Cola Company Headquarters

5:50 p.m. - 6:00 p.m.

Group Picture

10:00 p.m.

Hospitality Room

6:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.

Holding Room 7:00 p.m. - 9:10 p.m.

Banquet 9:30 p.m. - 9:50 p.m.

Q & A with Suze Orman 10:15 p.m.

Hospitality Room

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7:30 p.m. - Midnight Dinner, Desserts, and Dancing!

All Night Hospitality Room

COCA-COLA SCHOLARS FOUNDATION

2015 COCA-COLA SCHOLARS

daily events

THURSDAY, APRIL 16 Chaperones will meet you as you arrive throughout the day with transportation provided to the Westin at Atlanta Airport.

Following check-in, you will be introduced to our agenda through an Orientation Session.

Evening festivities will begin with the 2015 class of Scholars being presented as honored guests at our Scholars Banquet, held at the Georgia International Convention Center.

FRIDAY, APRIL 17 Each Scholar will participate in the Leadership Development Institute, which we call LDI for short. This engaging experience will challenge you to develop an inside-out leadership philosophy, and Coca-Cola Scholar alumni will serve as your guides.

SATURDAY, APRIL 18 The LDI will continue in the morning and will conclude that afternoon.

The LDI will extend its reach as you visit the National Center for Civil & Human Rights and the World of Coca-Cola.

Saturday night, Scholars will have dinner at a celebratory party at the Coca-Cola Company Headquarters.

After lunch, we will travel to the Atlanta Community Food Bank to sort food and work in their community gardens.

Friday night, you will participate in a fun, interactive game show.

“if three of us shall travel together, i shall find two teachers.”

— confucius

“the only journey is the one within.”

— rainer maria rilke 9

2015 COCA-COLA SCHOLARS

COCA-COLA SCHOLARS FOUNDATION

the coca-cola scholars foundation staff... is excited to help you use your scholarship and build a lifelong realtionship with your coca-cola scholar family!

STAFF CONTACT INFORMATION: SCHOLARALUMNI@COCA-COLA.COM P.O. BOX 442, NAT7 | ATLANTA, GA 30301 1-800-306-COKE

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COCA-COLA SCHOLARS FOUNDATION

2015 COCA-COLA SCHOLARS

Hello, one and all!

I’m a native Georgian who has the best job in the world! I meet wonderful young people like you and work with the greatest people on the staff of the Foundation. I received a B.B.A. in Accounting from the University of Georgia, so naturally I enjoy Dawg football and other sports. I suffer from thrill-seeking syndrome – I am an aspiring mountaineer with climbs throughout the U. S. and a recent month long trip through the desert Southwest has made me a lover of that area too. I also enjoy reading and vacations with my wife Alison, my daughter, Ashley, and son, Chase. I look forward to seeing you in Atlanta. Congratulations! “Start where you are, use what you have, do what you can.”

Travel Safely!

J. MARK DAVIS President

Your time with us in Atlanta will be an opportunity for you to begin what we expect will be many deep and lasting connections.

How do I know this? As you meet Scholars from earlier classes, conversations will be laced with memories of their Scholars Weekend. By the time you arrive, I surely will have read each and every one of your applications, so remind me of one your stories and we can begin from there. I have spent 20 glorious years at the Scholars Foundation, have one darling husband, two children and their spouses, one beautiful stepdaughter and five totally delicious grandchildren. I have room in my heart for each one of you.

Congratulations Coke Scholars!

Welcome to the Coca-Cola Family! As I enter my 14th year with the Foundation, I feel so grateful for all the wonderful Scholars that I have met and the friendships formed. A native Kentuckian, I lived in NYC for many years before returning to the south to help administer this fantastic program. I’m an avid runner who loves to start my day with a 6 a.m. jaunt through one of Atlanta’s parks. I love to read, particularly southern fiction, and to travel as often as possible. I also have a cavalier king charles spaniel named Sophie who is a total diva and should have her own reality show. This is an amazing time in your life – I hope the Coca-Cola Scholars weekend is unforgettable for you!

PATTI ROSS Vice President

JANE HALE HOPKINS Vice President

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COCA-COLA SCHOLARS FOUNDATION

Welcome to the family!

Welcome to the “A,” the city too busy to hate!

I’m so excited that you’re now a part of the Coca-Cola family. I am confident that this weekend will be one of the best experiences of your life. I’m Ericia and I’m looking forward to spending as much time with each of you as possible during our time together. I’m a native AT-alien and, when I’m not working, I enjoy creating new life adventures with my husband Allen, two sons Johnathan and Tre’, and our dogs Blair and Tripp. I’m a graduate of Mercer University and although I don’t have a favorite sports team right now, football consumes my life outside of work. I hope that over the course of the weekend, you’ll stop me to say hi... if I don’t stop you first.

A Southern Welcome Welcome to “Hotlanta” and the family of Coke. We hope when you leave here, you’ll feel like kinfolk. I can’t wait to meet “y’all” and try to figure out who’s who, but now I’ll take a minute to introduce myself to you. I grew up in Richmond, VA, but have been in Georgia for fifteen years. I went to RandolphMacon Woman’s College, but I root for the Cavaliers. I used to teach 2nd grade before working here at the Foundation. Getting to know our Scholars really gives me inspiration! Traveling and journal writing are ways that I soul-search and, for spiritual guidance, I stay active in my church. I love all kinds of music and I really like to rhyme, but exercise and photography take up much of my free time. To my five nieces and nephews, I’m known as “Aunt CeeCee,” but you can call me Carolyn, so be sure to come and meet me!

CAROLYN NORTON Alumni Relations Manager corton@coca-cola.com

ERICIA WARD-WILLIAMS Program Manager, Scholarships ewardwilliams@coca-cola.com

Welcome to Coke Town!

Hey Scholars! So happy to meet all of you. After living in Virginia all of my life, I graduated from Virginia Tech with a Communications degree and ended up here in Atlanta a few months later, working as a temp at CCSF for the day. Who knew I would be lucky enough to still be here 8 wonderful years later? Outside of the office, I enjoy going for walks on the Atlanta Beltline with my husband Matt, teaching classes at a local dance studio, finding the best cheese dip in Atlanta (Willy’s, in case you were wondering), and taking entirely too many pictures of my two cats (just kidding - there could never be too many). Welcome to an incredible network of the most inspiring people I have ever met. Congratulations and enjoy your Scholars Weekend!

LAUREN O’BRIEN Communications Manager laurenobrien@coca-cola.com

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COCA-COLA SCHOLARS FOUNDATION

2015 COCA-COLA SCHOLARS

Hey there, 2015 Scholars!

I can’t wait to hear all of your stories as you make your journey down (or up) to Atlanta!

I’m a native Georgian (and grew up down the road from J. Mark Davis), but I took a 10-year hiatus in NC to attend UNC-Chapel Hill and work for a scholarship program there. We couldn’t be more thrilled to celebrate with you this weekend! As you meet everyone and start to make connections with the Scholars family, take a moment to reflect on the thousands of Coke Scholars who came before you and the many yet to come. Use this weekend as the chance to ignite your own path as you dig deeper, grow with others, and dream up the ways you’ll be able to contribute to the network in the future. Oh, and when you get here, I’ll take any running tips you’ve got. I’m going for my first 1/2 marathon this summer!

MEGAN BARBER Manager of Donor Engagement mebarber@coca-cola.com

Hey y’all!

I’m Emily, the Office Manager for the Scholars Foundation. I am WICKED excited to have you all in Atlanta, and to get to know each of you over the next couple of days! I’m a New Englander at heart, raised primarily in Maine. When it was time to venture off to college I fled south, toward sunny skies and sweet tea. Last July, after graduating from Elon University in North Carolina, I decided to make Atlanta my home. I’m an avid reader and writer, and an aspiring yogi. I love to paint and draw, and create new things from scratch. More than anything, I love to talk about people’s lives and passions, and I look forward to hearing about all of yours. Here’s to spending our first Scholars Weekend together here in Atlanta, and big congratulations to all of you!

Welcome to Atlanta!

It is an honor to spend my very first Scholars Weekend with such an amazing group of intellectuals. I am a graduate of Georgia State University and proud to be a native Atlantan, which for some reason leads people to think I know my way around the city. (That is so not the case, everyone knows I am “directionally challenged”). When not in the office, I enjoy spending time with my wonderful family. On any given day I can be found cheering my kids on at triathlons, swim meets and football, basketball, or lacrosse games. I have already been inspired by your many accomplishments and anxiously await to see the greatness of your future endeavors. You are now members of a network of Scholars like no other. Coca-Cola Scholars are PHENOMENAL! I look forward to meeting and working with each of you to make the best use of your “Scholar Dollars.”

LAQUANDA PRINCE Finance Manager lprince@coca-cola.com

EMILY LOUISE ADAMS Office Manager emilyadams@coca-cola.com

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leadership development SCHOLAR NAME

CLASS

CURRENT CITY, STATE

CURRENT JOB/SCHOOL

TJ Abrams

2001

Atlanta, GA

Global Senior Brand Manager for Sprite and Adults at The Coca-Cola Company

Wendi Adelson

1997

Miami Beach, FL

Immigration Attorney, Writer, and Speaker

Jany Brown

1992

Atlanta, GA

Vice President, Wealth Management at UBS Financial Services

David Buckholtz

1993

Santa Monica, CA

SVP, Corporate Information Technology at Sony Pictures Entertainment

Kevin Chung

1990

San Francisco, CA

Director, Corporate Compliance and Employment Law, Legal and Business Affairs, and Acting Head of Human Relations at Sony Computer Entertainment America

Micaela Connery

2004

Cambridge, MA

MPP Candidate at the Harvard Kennedy School and Founder of Unified Theater

Mary Kathryn Covert Steel

2003

Washington, DC

US Spokesperson at Sanofi

Jason Feldman

1990

Greensboro, NC

Director of Global Innovation at Amazon

Rudy Fernandez

1991

Miami, FL

Vice President for Government and Community Relations and Chief of Staff to President at University of Miami

Michaella Gallina

2006

Boulder, CO

Director of Finance, Investor Relations, and Corporate Development at Boulder Brands

Julie Gehrki

1998

Fayetteville, AR

Senior Director at the Walmart Foundation

Megan Harney

2004

Wauwatosa, WI

Founder and Executive Director ofThe Scholar’s Choice Foundation, Inc.

Angela Harrell

1991

New York, NY

Head of Voya Foundation and Office of Corporate Responsibility at Voya Financial

Veronica Jung

1993

Manhasset, NY

Founding and Managing Member of Law Offices of Veronica S. Jung PLLC

Rosalyn Kennedy

1997

Mountain View, CA

Executive Communications Manager at Google

“The LDI was an amazing way to get to know and connect with my fellow Scholars on a really deep, emotional level. I will forever treasure and value the activities that we did throughout that day because they have, and continue to mean so much to me. I have definitely learned more about myself and what makes me who I am, and I also gained so much by listening to other Scholars and what made them who they are.”

“I feel like a much more confident person now than before the Scholars Weekend, and I attribute a lot of that to the LDI.”

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2015 COCA-COLA SCHOLARS

institute facilitators SCHOLAR NAME

CLASS

CURRENT CITY, STATE

CURRENT JOB/SCHOOL

Heidi Koester Oliveira

2001

Atlanta, GA

Manager of International Public Affairs at The Coca-Cola Company

Jamie Lathan

1996

Durham, NC

Teacher and Dean of Distance Education at the North Carolina School of Science and Mathematics

Chris Leahy

1999

Saint Louis, MO

Principal and Chief Operating Officer at RAI Insurance Group

Chad Little

1998

Provo, UT

Director of Marketing and Public Relations at BYU Marriott School of Management

Jolene Loetscher

1997

Sioux Falls, SD

Entrepreneur at Mud Mile Productions, DooGooders and Founder of Selfspiration

Philip McAdoo

1989

Avondale Estates, GA

Doctoral Candidate at The University of Pennsylvania Graduate School of Education

Tim McCallum

1991

Dallas, TX

President and CEO at Raze Media

Ben Obomanu

2002

Selma, AL

Former NFL Wide Receiver at the Seattle Seahawks and New York Jets

Mehul Patel

1994

New York, NY

Chief of Staff at Empire State Development

Carrie Regan

1989

Knoxville, TN

Director of Programming and Development at HGTV, DIY, and Great American Country, Scripps Networks

Daron Roberts

1997

Austin, TX

Founding Director at the Center for Sports Leadership and Innovation at the University of Texas

Jason Shanker

1991

Arlington, VA

President at Clear Tech Advice

Sue Suh

1992

New York, NY

Chief Talent Officer at The Rockefeller Foundation

Lesley Wainwright

1994

Atlanta, GA

Senior Counsel at Turner Broadcasting System

Precious Williams Owodunni

1993

Houston, TX

President at Mountaintop Consulting

“Seeing how many Scholars shared the same doubts and concerns as me was a very comforting thing.

It really brought us together as one family committed to growing together.”

“Overall, the Leadership Development Institute was the best leadership training I have had in my entire high school career.”

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COCA-COLA SCHOLARS FOUNDATION

welcome to atlanta, georgia.... from your scholars weekend chaperones!

2015 CHAPERONES: Christine Lawry Jane Jenkins Marcie Willis Bill Rawson Gail Bell George Adams Terri Fleischer Shirley Searcy

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COCA-COLA SCHOLARS FOUNDATION

2015 COCA-COLA SCHOLARS

TRAVELING COMPANIONS THE 2015 CLASS OF COCA-COLA SCHOLARS

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COCA-COLA SCHOLARS FOUNDATION

Hello there! I will be that one person who brings cupcakes/brownies/cinnamon roles to every single office meeting and event! I love to bake! Besides that, I love to take long runs (My goal is to run a marathon before I graduate college). I also love to read (Brave New World is by far THE BEST BOOK EVER PERIOD). I also enjoy watching Sherlock while making origami animals! Some would call my interests scattered, but I think it’s just because I love trying new things!

Hey there! As you can see, my name is spelled with a “B” but don’t be fooled because it’s pronounced with a “V”. (I know it’s a little bit funky). I have two older brothers and two younger sisters, which makes me the middle child. I’m involved in quite a few clubs, but I also love to hang out with my family and friends. You can find my friends and me at every premiere of The Hunger Games. You can find us every Friday at Starbucks and every Wednesday at student council meetings… did I mention I run those? I’m thrilled to meet as many other scholars as possible and I can’t wait to talk with you guys about all the awesome activities you’re involved in.

ESTEBAN ABEYTA Los Alamos High School Espanola, NM esteban.abeyta@yahoo.com

LEILA ABDELRAHMAN Coral Reef High School Miami, FL leila.zakaria@gmail.com

Good evening! I hope you all are doing well. I look forward to meeting you all and learning about all your diverse and varied interests and passions. I am passionate politics, faith, sports, music, and anything related to history and how it influences our current social norms and perceptions. I am an extrovert so I honestly love striking up conversations with random people to get to know them. I would say that the most rewarding part of service and getting involved in the community for me is just the people you meet and the different life stories you hear. I am somebody who can be described as very eclectic in my sense of style(rock the plaid on plaid all day every day) and I’m not afraid to question certain social norms (who made those rules anyway). Overall, I look forward to having some great conversations and making some lifelong friends this weekend!

VICTOR AGBAFE Cape Fear Academy Wilmington, NC victor.agbafe15@capefearacademy.org

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What do you remember? For me, everything I have done can be found in my writing. Every moment has been lived intensely, so that I can weave a web of memories, whether they be triumphs or failures, to reflect my life thus far. For what if in five years, there is no possible recollection of these moments?

As I write, I remember the competitions for robotics, teaching students and smiling at their dedication, and playing volleyball with friends. I often lose myself in the waves of the past, wading into a whirlpool of whispering elements only to whisk a few onto my canvas.

As I continue to write and spin my tale, I hope you all join me, expanding my web to join yours and together creating a masterpiece.

SHRUTI AGGARWAL Oak Park High School Oak Park, CA shrutiaggarwal111@gmail.com

Hey! Jude? Like “Hey, Jude” by The Beatles?

Yes! I’m different -maybe not odd- but definitely different. Well, it’s not every day you meet a 6’1”, blond, green-eyed, Arabic-speaking Syrian who looks like the stereotypical “American-boy.” I’ve grown up on a cusp between two very different “worlds,” and they have really shaped my perspective and interests. I love playing the piano and viola. I love sports, especially basketball. Go Heat! I also have a passion for the medical sciences, international relations, and service.

Cardiovascular research, Model United Nations, “Let’s Move,” and “Sahha Wa Salaam,” a non-profit organization I founded, among many others, have contributed to some of my greatest joys that I hope will continue in the years to come. I’m so humbled to be a Coke Scholar, and I cannot wait to meet you all!

JUDE ALAWA

Hi, I’m Perry (not the platypus)! I’m from the bustling city of Houston, Texas which has the honor of being the world capital of space exploration, energy, and air conditioning (seriously!). Over the past few years I’ve spent time on many different endeavors, but some of the most significant ones are environmental research in nanotechnology, encouraging young students to pursue STEM fields, and promoting equal access to educational opportunities. When I have some down time, I love to read up on the latest advances in technology, travel, and watch science fiction movies. I’m truly honored to be selected as a 2015 Coca-Cola Scholars and am beyond excited to meet the rest of you!

PERRY ALAGAPPAN Clear Lake High School Houston, TX perry.alagappan@gmail.com

American Heritage School Plantation Miami, FL jude.alawa@gmail.com

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Hey! So I’m a National Geographic Emerging Explorer who does cancer and environmental research along with whitewater kayaking, swimming, mountain biking, math competitions, model UN, and a bunch of advocacy work on LGBT and STEM stuff. I’m currently attempting to pick up German and I love pretty much any romantic comedy. I suppose my other hobbies consist of writing (just released by first book with Harper Collins), playing Cards Against Humanity, landing myself on the FBI watch list, folding origami, and throwing pretty awesome themed parties.

I am a curious, fun loving and optimistic guy. I love running, reading, hiking, science, foreign affairs, and enough other things that we probably have something in common. If not I’d love to compare notes - I’m always willing to try something new and have an adventure.

My family, friends and nature come first in my life and I live for experiences rather than things. I enjoy spending time on mountain trails in my home state of Colorado, but also want to travel. In exploring I hope to meet new people and create a global impact by solving problems and sharing compassion.

Let’s try to change the world together and have a great time along the way!

MICHAEL ANTHONY Smoky Hill High School Centennial, CO manthony4.mja@gmail.com

JACK ANDRAKA North County High School Crownsville, MD jackandraka@gmail.com

Top o’ the morning to ya! Most of my friends call me Saber or Bean, the dancer, musician, wrestler, and life-long student under five feet tall. If I was stranded on an island, all I would really need would be some pizza, a lightsaber, funk on vinyl, and a volleyball. I love to learn about everything! I still have to learn how to bike! The top five things on my bucket list include traveling to New Zealand, building schools for communities in need, holding a street performance in New York City, learning to speak Xhosa, and improving city education systems. I cannot wait to meet all you beautiful people!

SABRINA APONTE Lane Technical High School Chicago, IL eladio_aponte@yahoo.com

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Hi everyone! I’ve lived in Matthews, North Carolina my entire life, and I’m ready to explore the rest of the world. I love watching Bollywood movies and playing the ukulele (although I’m not very good at it). I am especially passionate about cancer research, and the lab is my happy place. I’ve also loved participating in science fair throughout high school, and my experiences have allowed me to travel as far as Beijing. One interesting thing that people don’t really know about me is that I’m colorblind. I’m so honored and excited to be a Coca-Cola Scholar!

EMILY ASHKIN Providence Day School Matthews, NC emily.ashkin@providenceday.org

Wassup! I’m a Fulani American from the west side of Atlanta. Although I was born in the Bronx, I showcase a mixture of Southern Hospitality and Fulani values. Despite living within Atlanta, I am a die-heart fan of the New York Giants. I would try to own them one day if I could. As a future world renown leader, my interests in science and math are exemplary, as I have recently been named Atlanta Public Schools’ best Scientist as I have won the APS District Science fair two years in a row. I pride myself on my versatility as I play soccer, lead the Debate Team (captain), lead my class (Senior Class President), lead FBLA, and enjoy conducting independent research on Tissue Regeneration and Vascular Remodeling. My most important value, though, is family, as I love being around my 4 siblings and my wonderful parents. Hopefully, we can be family, too.

Hi! I’m so excited to meet all of you! A little about me: I’m passionate about giving back to the community and currently serve as CEO and Founder of a non-profit that aims to distribute educational resources to underprivileged communities globally. I’m very enthusiastic about spreading STEM, and am involved in national and regional efforts to increase awareness, in addition to actively pursuing research. I’ve been fortunate to be engaged with a myriad of organizations, and the opportunities I’ve gained have shaped my perspective on the difference and impact we can make together. I’m greatly looking forward to having the opportunity to become part of the Coca-Cola Scholars community!

SREYA ATLURI Thomas Jefferson HS of Science & Technology Centreville, VA sreya.atluri@gmail.com

AMADOU BAH Best Academy High School Atlanta, GA amadoub1996@yahoo.com

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Hello Scholars! I was born in Central Florida and attend high school in Andover, MA. Some things I am most proud of are serving my community through volunteer service, advocating for social justice causes, doing biochemistry research, making documentaries and mixtapes, and playing violin.

Busy is my middle name! (Just kidding its John.) Staying active and busy is a huge part of my life. I am involved in many activities at my school including three sports, student council, math league, and many more. I am honored to be selected for such a prestigious award. It is truly humbling to be a part of such an extraordinary group of students.

GAVIN BECKER Nevis High School Nevis, MN vacation@inwegoresort.com

ESHA BANSAL Phillips Academy Indialantic, FL ebansal2@gmail.com

Hey everyone! I love being outside in the fresh air playing frisbee, soccer, volleyball, or tennis. When I’m tired there’s nothing that rejuvenates me better than throwing a disk around outside or watching soccer (…I’m addicted) Go Arsenal! I’m passionate about doing service in my community through a mentorship club I founded and through Key Club. Can’t wait to meet you all and hear about all the cool stuff you’ve done.

BENJAMIN BELTRAN Nevada Union High School Nevada City, CA benbeltran10@gmail.com

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I’m a bubbly 5’4 native ATLien that will appear to be 5’10 on a good day. I love the opportunities to give back- whether it’s hanging out with my elderly Cuban neighbor (sólo conversaciones españoles) or throwing a Senior Senior Prom for some of the older members of my community. I have traveled to a few countries like Egypt and Eritrea (where my fambam’s from), but I hope to travel much more and experience the adventures in store (#bars). I like Jeep Wranglers and corny jokesso if you know one tell me it. I’m so excited to meet y’all (:

KAWTHER BERHANU South Gwinnett High School Snellville, GA kawther.berhanu@gmail.com

What are the ingredients in a “Kevin Biju” enchilada? First, add a dash of music (guitar, violin, and clarinet). Second, pop in a lifelong dedication to the medical field. Finally, wrap in a warm tortilla of community, family, and friends. Ever since I watched pea plants grow in kindergarten, I have loved science. Over the past two summers, I had the outstanding opportunity to intern at Penn Medicine. In addition to that, I have served my community as an intensive-care nursing home volunteer and peer tutor. The quote that best describes me: “A scientist is not a mere technician; he is also a child confronting natural phenomena that impress him as though they were fairy tales” (Marie Curie).

Michael Bervell [MY-kuhl BUR-vel], noun: a Ghanaian-American student who resides in Washington State (though he often travels due to his love of exploration). He is a music aficionado who plays drums, dabbles on the piano, and sings terribly; a Coca-Cola addict who loves sipping on lemonade and classic Coke in the summer; a pixel pusher who recently developed the Blueout App Company (blueout.co); and an intergalactic philanthropist who created Hugs for Ghana (hugsforghana.org), a student-run nonprofit organization. Aside from talking in 3rd person, Michael’s favorite past-time is meeting new people and learning their stories. [For more definitions, see goodlooking, humble, or humorous].

MICHAEL BERVELL Kamiak High School Snohomish, WA mikeberv@gmail.com

KEVIN BIJU Methacton High School Collegeville, PA kevinmbiju@gmail.com

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Hi! I am a 5’10” (almost six foot with shoes on) girl who can dunk! Not really, but I hope to in the future. I have had an eclectic range of nick names from Doc-O, to Energizer Bunny, to Jolly Green Giant.

This past summer I mothered thousands of fruit flies, not at my house though, they were too important to our research to bring home. My dream form of transportation is a motorcycle, but my parents convinced me to settle for a red pony (a Mustang). I was almost born on Christmas, but instead I was born on New Year’s Eve and grew up believing that everyone was throwing a party for me. I could not be more honored to be a member of such a great family and look forward to growing together.

Hey guys, I just wanted to introduce myself to everyone and tell you a bit about me. Some of my interests are music (The xx and Snow Patrol are my fave bands), Scouting (Eagle Scout since 13 yoa), and video games. I have played multiple instruments such as the piano, drums, guitar, bells, and the trumpet, but video games consume the majority of my free time; Destiny is a personal favorite of mine. Anyway, I cannot wait to meet each and everyone of you, so if you see me, just give a quick wave! See you around!

WYATT BOOTH Hampton High School Newport News, VA wbooth513@gmail.com

MADELYN BOLLIG Fort Collins High School Fort Collins, CO mkbollig@gmail.com

Hi! I attend a small high school in New York City. I have played Varsity sports and have been active in several clubs and activities.

I love traveling, spending time with my family, and making new friends, (hopefully all of you). I am also excited to be attending Dartmouth College this fall!

ERIKA CABRERA Washington Heights Expeditionary Learning School Bronx, NY erikacabrera029@gmail.com

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As my Grandpa Cahoon always says, “How is ya?” I am living the dream as a small-town Idahoan. I am the oldest of six children, with four brothers and one sweet little sister. My dream is to be a future lawyer and politician, a kind husband and father, and to always be a friend. I enjoy writing, running, playing with my siblings, and visiting Shoshone Falls, which is near my house. I feel MIND-BLOWN to be a Coca-Cola Scholar. My mind is full of gratitude, gladness, and glee. I have Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), and as a child, my family would wonder, “How will he ever be successful if he can’t focus, listen, or make friends?” Amazingly, with wonderful opportunities, parents, teachers, and through hard work, I have reached a potential that I never thought I had.

SAMUEL CAHOON Kimberly High School Twin Falls, ID supersamcahoon@gmail.com

Hi Scholars! I’m from the small coastal town of Port Isabel (located on the southern tip of Texas). I’m outgoing and love working with all sorts of people. I come from a close-knit town (and an even closer-knit family). I am very involved in my community, church, and school. I serve as Student Body President and Varsity Cheerleading Captain. I am also Texas State Spelling and Vocabulary Champion.

I’m an aspiring physician and advocate for public health awareness. I’m honored and blessed to be among such an elite group of scholars and to be part of the Coca-Cola Family!

Hi all! Ever flown through a thunderstorm?

Ever experienced “thundersnow”? Ever had lightning strike so close that your hair stood on end? Yep. That’s me; I’m an aspiring meteorologist, and have come to embrace the fact that “my head’s in the clouds.” As long as I can recall, I have found myself rushing outdoors to the violent roar of thunder, as streaks of lightning seem to tear the sky in two.

I find myself dodging flying hailstones, chasing funnel-clouds, climbing through feet of snow, caught exposed to lightning on a flat, empty beach, and routinely struggling to stand in hurricane force winds, all in an effort to satisfy my insatiable appetite to study Mother Nature at her most extreme. Each and every one of us here is pursuing a passion, and I’m honored and humbled to be a member of such an incredible group of young individuals.

MATTHEW CAPPUCCI Sturgis Charter Public School Plymouth, MA matthewcappucci@yahoo.com

JANELLE CHAVEZ Port Isabel High School Port Isabel, TX janellechavez@live.com

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I am a pragmatic optimist. People can, indeed, be both practical and optimistic, and these people are the innovators. These people are the ones who are able to see problems objectively while simultaneously thinking about improvements. In all of my pursuits - from debate, environmental activism, and business to laboratory research, language translation, and violin - I embody this mindset and strive to be a realistic, positive agent for change. So if you ever feel inspired, let’s have a chat, and we can talk about how to change the world, together.

When I’m not fawning over some new young adult fiction novel or the dumplings at P.F. Changs, I fill my time with schoolwork, swimming, scientific research, and volunteering. In addition, I really like online shopping, rainy days, twinkly lights and Amazon Prime. I strive to make photogenic macaroons, the sight of the stars makes me dream, and I waste my time browsing Pinterest and watching trailers on IMDB.

RIA CHHABRA Plano Senior High School Plano, TX riachhabra111@yahoo.com

JININGNAN CHEN Paul Laurence Dunbar High School Lexington, KY jiningnan.chen@gmail.com

Hello! I am a young lady who loves her heels during the day and cowgirl boots at night.

My family owns a cattle ranch where I love to spend time outdoors. I enjoy playing the french horn, going to school, and lifting weights. Organization is one of my best skills.

I have told myself that if the medial field does not work out, I could definitely by an event planner.

SYDNEY CREAGER McAlester High School Crowder, OK sydneycreager@yahoo.com

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Maroon is my favorite color, and if you want to say that maroon is brown, then don’t. It’s not red either, if that was your next impulse.

Consider getting color vision correction glasses. Tea isn’t bad, but coffee is where it’s at! About three packs of Sweet’N Low’s sweeten my daily cup of coffee. I’m working on cutting back on that number, one pack at a time. Shamelessly laughing at my own awful puns a little too often Hyped for adventures big and small, even as small as going to the corner deli to buy cookie dough ice cream Entertaining traits: my sassy sarcasm, off-key singing, and bizarre facial expressions Ecstatic to have met such amazingly talented people through the Coca-Cola network!

MITASHEE DAS Hunter College High School Bronx, NY mitashee.das@gmail.com

Hey, everyone! I was born and raised in Portland and the city has been fundamental to the development of my own identity among other things, its quirkiness, the young but growing tech community here (“Silicon Forest”), the music scene and the culture district. I am excited and honored to join the Coca-Cola family and look forward to meeting all of you! Calling all aspiring scientists, classical & jazz pianists, choristers, foodies...

Hello! I grew up in a small, sleepy suburb where exploring the forest and playing manhunt and street ball were the norm. Though my experiences have made me gritty and crafty, I also have a passion for sharing happiness with everyone; I believe small acts of kindness such as a passing smile can make all the difference! Currently, I hope to pursue tech entrepreneurship; I love the adventure and creativity of startups. I am also involved with education advocacy, running, politics, and a Punjabi folk dance called bhangra. With my eclectic interests, you can also find me watching indie movies or listening to rap music! I am still in disbelief that I was selected as a Coca-Cola Scholar; all 149 of you are unbelievably talented and inspiring. I wish you all the best of luck in college and beyond, and I hope that we all remain friends for life!

SAMARTH DESAI Nashua High School South Campus Nashua, NH samarthdesai1@gmail.com

VALERIE DING The Catlin Gabel School Portland, OR valerie.ding@gmail.com

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Howdy! I’m Ashton Duke and I am from League City, Texas. I live for the simple things in life like queso, Doctor Who, Minions and Doritos. I play tennis and swim for my school and I also am an officer in all the honor societies at my school. My junior year, I started a fundraiser called Splash Out Lupus in honor of a friend. Splash Out Lupus is a fundraiser where Texas high school swim teams raise money for the Lupus Foundation. Over the past two years, we raised more than $18,000 for the Lupus Foundation! In my spare time I like to go out to eat with friends and watch Netflix!

Unfortunately, I’m not the real Slim Shady, or Kim Kardashian. I’m really into Seth Rogen.

I’m an extremist that has no filter (working on it). I have been told that I have a terrible laugh (I don’t see it) so apologies in advance.

I am passionate about the homeless. I’ve raised $50,000 worth of goods in these past four years bringing the numbers down from 8,000 to 800 people on the streets. I have also raised $12,000 for our team that is made up all financial backgrounds to be able to compete at The National High School Model United Nations tournament in NYC for free.

I might have a money problem... I really do care about providing equal opportunities for students in public education.

KIMBERLY FOREITER Dr. Michael M. Krop Senior High School North Miami Beach, FL kforeiter@hotmail.com

PAUL DUKE Clear Creek High School League City, TX kraduke@aol.com

Greetings from the Hoosier State! No, I’ve never been to the Indy 500. Yes, I’ve ridden a tractor. I play football and a mean game of Euchre (again, a Hoosier thing, but just ask me; I’d love to explain). Last summer I interned at the 3rd largest naval installation in the world, which, of course, as I’m sure you’ve guessed by now, is in the landlocked state of Indiana, more than 200 miles from the shores of Lake Michigan. I’m a HOBY; if you think that is O-U-T-S-T-A-N-D-I-N-G, we should definitely get together and share our HOBY love. My hobby is collecting people-interesting and unique people who will go on to do amazing things. I hope to add as many of you to my collection as possible over the next few days.

I can’t describe how incredible it is to be a part of this network of future world-changers and how honored I am to be in your company.

JUSTIN GARRARD Lebanon High School Lebanon, IN justin.garrard.77@gmail.com

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Hola! I am warm-hearted girl from the cold state of Minnesota. I love working with my robotics team on the electrical side of the robot, playing defense in soccer, and I love to read about super natural beings. I plan to pursue a career in Electrical Engineering and Computer Science and minor in Programming and Management. I love to watch hockey and plan to learn how to snowboard. I volunteer in Columbia Heights Recycling Center every Saturday. My parents live in Ecuador and I am currently living with my Retired librarian till I graduate from High School. I love to travel and I hope to go sightseeing while I’m in Atlanta. I want to help the Mother Earth become a more recycle planet!

JANICE GUALLPA Columbia Heights High School Roseville, MN janiceguallpa@gmail.com

Hi Scholars! I’m a teen researcher, entrepreneur, and avid computerphile born and raised in the Valley of the Sun, Arizona. I’m passionate about how computer science can solve global problems, from education to cancer.

I like to think I’m pretty spectacular (literally; I’ve worn spectacles since age 5). When I’m not working on computer projects, I’m busy getting in a midnight debate about economic globalization and poverty, singing along (rather poorly) to Bollywood music, eating the 5th hottest pepper in the world, and playing tennis. A few more fun facts: I am fluent in 12 languages (including JavaScript, Python, English, Hindi, & Sarcasm), and I have an unabashed appreciation for puns. I can’t wait to meet all of you in Atlanta!

Q: Why didn’t the man drown in the ocean of Coke? A: It was just a Fanta sea! Hello there!

I am a self-described adventurer born in the state of New York and raised on the rolling hills of my Idahome. My parents come from the small town of Ting Jiang, China, and I am the first one in my family to go to college! I love traveling to new places, playing tennis, volunteering in my community, and reading a book on a quiet afternoon. My favorite quote “just keep swimming,” comes from the infamous philosopher, Dory, and can be used to describe my daily life. I am incredibly excited to be a Coca-Cola Scholar and to join such a diverse and amazing family!

WILSON GUO Moscow Senior High School Moscow, ID wguo91997@gmail.com

SHREY GUPTA Basis Scottsdale Charter School Scottsdale, AZ shreygupta97@gmail.com

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Howdy fellow Coke Scholars! I’m a proud Latina from the Alamo City, wait for it, GO SPURS!!! Regardless of your team preference though, I’m sure we can all agree breakfast tacos are a point of less contention, right?

Whether you’re an aspiring doctor, athlete, President, or actor, I look forward to learning more about you! I’ve spent as much time culturing cancer cell lines as indulging in episodes of Parks and Rec (perhaps seasons) on Netflix in a day. I also pride myself on being a cultural explorer and loving exotic Southeast Asian cuisine. So we can talk about food, sports, academia, politics, culture, music, entertainment--you name it. I am super thrilled to share a Coke with y’all.

I’m not the only one who’s a bit blown away by these examples, right? I’ve been swimming competitively for 11 years; chlorine is incorporated into my skin. It’s one of the main components of my identity. I also love doing charity work. I’ve hosted a few charity projects within my community to benefit kids from Native American reservations to Tanzania, and I hope I’ll be able to do more in the future. Other activities I do include Fed challenge, Model UN, and I’m on the superintendent’s student advisory board for my school district. I also love dancing. I’m self-taught in hip-hop, and open to anyone who can teach me a few moves. I’ll be attending Harvard University this fall. Go Crimsons! I’m not sure what I’ll major in. I’m leaning towards economics, but I’m still open to almost all occupations. It’s an honor to be a Coca-Cola Scholar and I look forward to meeting all of you.

CURTIS HSU Athens High School Troy, MI curtishsu@sbcglobal.net

JOCELYN HERNANDEZ Robert E. Lee High School San Antonio, TX jocelynhernandez.gdl@gmail.com

Hi Everyone! My name is Shane and I’m excited to meet all of you this weekend. When I’m not swimming one of my 9 practices a week, you can find me participating in DECA, hanging out with friends, and being involved in my local community. My plans for the future include swimming at New York University and attending the Stern School of Business. I hope to double major in International Business and Marketing. I am looking forward to having some amazing experiences and creating long-lasting memories. Congratulations to all my fellow 2015 Coca-Cola Scholars!

SHANE HULSE South County High School Fairfax Station, VA smhulse@cox.net

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Hey guys, I’m from Kokomo, IN, and originate from New Castle, IN, but I’m sure you haven’t heard of either place! Despite the tundra that is Northern Indiana in the winter, I really enjoy being outside. My passport just recently added its first visa, and I can’t wait to add more; there are flags all over my room!

JOSEPH HURLOCKER Kokomo High School Kokomo, IN joeyhurlocker@gmail.com

I’m a bookworm turned writer, turned activist.

I’m co-founder and President of Global Ambassadors and author of “The Voice of Thunder” and “The Dying of Empires,” and I intern (and hope to work) in the United Nations. I’m also a Whovian, Potterhead, Game of Thrones lover, and Bollywood dancer. If you get me started on feminism or climate change, I’ll probably never shut up. I’m from India and fluent in Malayalam, and I really hope to travel the world - and write about it - someday soon.

Lets play a game… a few truths and a lie.

I’ve been stand up paddling with a new born whale and her 50 ft mother. The first endangered bird I ever banded was shot by a hunter. I won a greased pig contest. Pink is my favorite color. Ive survived 2 tsunamis.

Preserving native environments inspires my research and fuels my passion. To learn which is which, come find me… ;)

SARAH JENKINS Molokai High Intermediate School Kaunakakai, HI sarah.alohilani.jenkins@gmail.com

RAINA KADAVIL White Plains High School White Plains, NY rainakadavil@gmail.com

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WARNING: I’m an optimist. You know, one of those people who smiles when the alarm clock buzzes at 5:00 AM to get to a 5:30 AM Crew practice. I know: I’m a freak of nature.

I would be singing ‘Tomorrow’ rather than crying for help if I were the girl trapped in the pit in ‘Silence of the Lambs.’ Some people see an empty glass; I see a couple sips left. On the plus side, I like to laugh and make others laugh. I love wordplay, wittiness and puns.

I love cheesy and terrible jokes. Sometimes I’ll try to make my own; I apologize in advance. My two Newfoundland puppies are irresistible. So are potato chips. I am a varsity snacker. I have the appetite of a family of four, and I strip the cheese off my pizza and eat it separately. I prefer breakfast for dinner, and I think that creamed spinach should not exist.

However, I am totally fine with cottage cheese.

Hi everyone! I’m so honored to be named as a Coca Cola Scholar and can’t wait to meet all of you. I’m passionate about cheesy jokes, public health (I especially don’t have the “patience” for health care disparities), public policy, and eating - my family’s motto is “life is too short for bad food.”

ATHENA KAN River Hill High School Clarksville, MD xd.athena@gmail.com

SYDNEY KAMEN Georgetown Day High School Washington, DC 97australia@gmail.com

Hi! I am super excited to have been selected as a Coca-Cola Scholar, and I am so stoked to meet everyone! A few fun facts about me: I was born in Jerusalem, Israel, and I go back to visit every year. I speak four languages (Russian, Hebrew, Spanish, and English).

Sports are a huge part of my life (especially basketball, track, and swimming). I love listening to music and singing (although I have the most horrible singing voice), and I am a massive rap fan. I am still in shock. I am humbled by this opportunity and it is truly an honor to join the Coca Cola family!

ARIEL KANTOR Chapel Hill High School Chapel Hill, NC kantor_ariel@yahoo.com

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Hey! I’m Ellen, and I guarantee we have lots in common. I like to laugh, jam in the car to Taylor Swift, find new methods to clean drinking water, volunteer, travel, eat popcorn and ice cream, and run. I am the kind of person who loves to dance even though I am absolutely awful at it, so sorry in advance (haha). I am so excited to meet all of you amazing and talented people, and I am incredibly blessed and humbled to be a CocaCola Scholar. I am sure I will leave Atlanta very inspired by your work and accomplishments!

Hopefully I’ll know where I am headed next year by April when I see you all, but for now, I am enjoying the college search adventure!

See you all soon!

ELLEN KENDALL Notre Dame Academy Ft. Mitchell, KY kendalle@ndapandas.org

Hi! I’m Bethany, and the first thing you’ll notice about me is that I’m short; while some of that is because I’m sixteen, it’s really just a part of my life. I can usually be found practicing speech, finding chocolate, speaking French, or checking my younger siblings’ homework.

What I’m most passionate about is teaching-I want to teach when I grow up, so I’ve spent my high school years getting started, usually either through tutoring at my old elementary school or teaching Hispanic adults preparing to take their GED tests. I’m so so honored to be part of this program and everyone’s accomplishments blow me away. Can’t wait to meet all you incredible people!

Hello 2015 Coca-Cola Scholars! It is an honor for me to join this wonderful family of greatly accomplished individuals! You all truly humble me! Something I absolutely love that is not verified by external achievements is photography. I have never formally learned the art of the lens, but it is a hobby in development. Photography really encapsulates who I am, loving to record and cherish memories. I think there is something magical about having the ability to capture ephemeral moments. I am thrilled to be a part of the 27th class of Coca-Cola Scholars, and I am ecstatic to witness how such a diverse group of people will set initiative to make a difference in the world.

RACHEL KIM Ames High School Ames, IA rkim0428@gmail.com

BETHANY KIRKPATRICK Battle Ground Academy Franklin, TN bmkirkpatrick15@gmail.com

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Hello fellow Coca-Cola Scholars! I was born and raised a mile above sea level in Lakewood, Colorado, where I am involved in a variety of activities: debate, tennis, mountain bike racing, Science Olympiad, HOSA, internships for senators, conducting chemical research, and more. Of all my activities, however, I am most passionate about volunteering for Swedish Medical Center and Unicef which are reflective of my pursuit of a career in public (hopefully global) health. I am incredibly humbled to be a part of such a fantastic and diverse group of individuals.

Interacting with all of you over social media has already inspired me and I continue to be amazed everyday by your accomplishments.

Hello Fellow Scholars! I am incredibly excited to be a part of this program and I can’t wait to meet you all! Who am I? Now that is a complicated question. Above all else I am a servant. In 2011 I created a charity, Brothers Against Poverty, a youth movement aimed at serving children and families in poverty both internationally and locally. Today, Brothers Against Poverty has raised over $100,000 for our outreach programs, is working in 5 countries and has served over 29,000 people living in poverty. Outside of this mission there are many other passions and pursuits that I chase on a daily basis, however my 700 characters are up so you will have to talk to me in person!

TIMOTHY LANN Squalicum High School Bellingham, WA timothylann@hotmail.com

DANIEL KWON Bear Creek High School Lakewood, CO dkwon36@gmail.com

Hi! I’m Stephanie and I was born and raised in Miami, FL with two older brothers and an older sister. I am a competitive tennis player, involved in student government and passionate about community service. My favorite subject is history and I love history jokes (or really any joke, no matter how corny or punny it is). I am honored to be a Coca-Cola Scholar and join this wonderful alumni family. I am so proud of this 27th class of scholars for all that we have achieved and am grateful to be surrounded by such a successful group of individuals. I believe each of us has the capability to impact the world in incredible ways and am excited to see the great things our class of Coca-Cola scholars will accomplish.

STEPHANIE LEVINE Miami Palmetto Senior High School Pinecrest, FL slevine1203@aol.com

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Hello fellow Scholars! I am a Wisconsin born-and-raised girl with a passion for service and leadership! I founded an international program called Literacy for Little Ones, which encourages parents to read to their newborns by donating new children’s books to 11 hospitals throughout Wisconsin, Minnesota, and Nicaragua. Furthermore, I represent 8,000 student leaders as the Wisconsin Association of School Councils State President and serve as one of fourteen teens on generationOn’s National Youth Advisory Council. I have a passion for traveling, all things purple, and Friends (yes, I was named after the show!). I am thrilled to share this wonderful experience with you!

RACHEL LEY Stevens Point Area Senior High School Stevens Point, WI rach_ley@hotmail.com

Even though I’ve lived in a polar vortex known as Chicago for the past ten years, I was born in balmy Hunan, China. Currently, my world is filled with misheard song lyrics and jokes that take me way too long to get. I would like to go into something creative in the future, but my interests are too diverse for me to conjure any concrete career dreams at the moment. I’m a fan of avocados, Hemingway, bad puns, overly complicated recipes, and stringing words into stories and poems. My favorite source of inspiration is people-watching.

Hey I’m Sharon and I’m from Pearland, which is a suburb of Houston. I really like the cold so it’s unfortunate that it’s in the 70s in February here. My parents are both cancer researchers and my sister is an AB Scholar at Duke (she was also a Coke Scholar) and my brother is a math and basketball 8th grade fanatic. I have an adorable dog and a not so adorable cat (who hates me but I love her anyway). Poetry is a hobby of mine and I listen to Electronic Dance Music even though I’m big on singing to T-Swift in the shower (or really anything that’s catchy). I’m a tea fan (my favorite is chamomile with at least three spoonful’s of sugar) and am pretty talkative even though I also really enjoy listening to others. I’m not particularly sporty although I have lots of sports-wear and I love staying up to watch movies and talk. Excited to meet y’all!

SHARON LI Glenda Dawson High School Manvel, TX sharonli@wecareact.org

SIQI LIU Naperville Central High School Naperville, IL siqiliu2015@yahoo.com

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A passion for political advocacy led me to the American Civil Liberties Union, where I work with the organization’s Virginia affiliate to bring equal rights for women, students, and prisoners to the forefront of debate. I’m active as well in scientific research and have spent four years developing a system to remove nitrates from ecosystems. I’ve been a violinist since age five and a daffodil enthusiast since I was six. My current project is to take a selfie with every sitting U.S. Senator, an experience that’s exposed me to the humor, humanity, and occasional brusqueness of our nation’s elected officials.

Hi, gang! I usually go by Cat. I’m a Joan Jett junkie and a lipstick feminist. I sing Hips Don’t Lie in the shower, and I will never refuse a good cheeseburger. I’m a slam poet and fantasy football champ. I live for espresso, home-made lemonade, and long road trips.

I’m a hot-tempered free-spirit with a killer Elvis impersonation, and I’m so glad to have the privilege of sharing a Coke with all of you!

CATHERINE LUCCHI Selinsgrove Area High School Shamokin Dam, PA clucchi19@aol.com

JOHN LOHMANN Douglas S. Freeman High School Henrico, VA jack.lohmann@gmail.com

I’m a writer, environmentalist, and science/ space-enthusiast. I speak four languages. I love the stars and ask too many questions. I have a cat named Nemo and a kitten named Faye. My grandmother is my hero. I’m a ridiculously goofy and awkward person, but if I can make you smile, well, that’d make me so happy. I look forward to getting to know all of you, and hope to stay in touch for many years to come. Ad astra per aspera!

CLARA MA Shawnee Mission East High School Lenexa, KS claratma@gmail.com

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Although I may act like your typical teenage girl-- always laughing with my friends, never turning down a cupcake, jamming out to Taylor Swift and Ed Sheeran in my little red car, and spending way too much time on Pinterest and looking up exotic travel adventures, my true identity lies in helping others. I am fiercely passionate about doing service projects that are related to the environment and love showing off my goofy side as a volunteer year-round Christmas elf at local hospitals. I can’t wait to share a Coke with all of the other amazing scholars and hear what wonderful things you are doing!

LILLY MAKEE West Geauga High School Chesterland, OH lilly.makee96@gmail.com

If you have ever felt the urge to speak to a nerd/three-sport athlete/perfectionist/ volunteer with organizations assisting individuals with special needs/overlycompetitive person/bad pun-maker, then today is your lucky day! I feel so blessed to be in the presence of so many great minds this weekend. Let’s make it a weekend to remember!

First off, I just want to emphasize how excited I am to meet all of you! But now, a little bit about myself. You are just as likely to find me at the Event Planning Committee for Relay for Life as you are to find me kicking a soccer ball against the backstop of the baseball field. Call it persistence or plain stubbornness, but I believe that I have been able to accomplish what I have because of my determination to overcome challenges and obstacles. I am that improbable flip of the quarter that lands on neither heads nor tails but on its side. I am part of those 119 ridges, each ridge representing a different aspect of me. Ultimately, I am compelled to seek answers to questions that have yet to be asked.

KAREN MALACON Gretchen Whitney High School Cerritos, CA karelizmal13@gmail.com

MADISON MALONEY D. H. Conley High School Greenville, NC collegeboundmaloney@gmail.com

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Hey! This quote describes me well: “Work like you don’t need the money, love like you’ve never been hurt, and dance like no one is watching!” ~ courtesy of Randall G Leighton. I code things like a beatable Flappy Bird game, play tennis like I’m a tennis star, read mysteries, watch stand-up comedy, play the ukulele to complement my vocals, and volunteer to have the satisfaction of positively impacting another person’s life.

Hey Fellow Scholars! I am the kind of guy that likes to take a cosmopolitan view of the world.

This is probably because I have attended over ten school districts in four states. I am most inspired by science and feel passionate about the progression of man.

ZACHARY MARCONE Kings Park High School Fort Salonga, NY zmarcone@gmail.com

ABHISHEK MANGLA Saint Francis High School Santa Clara, CA abhishekmangla@yahoo.com

Hey! Hmm… this is a tough question. I love the farm life in the great state of Iowa.

There’s never a shortage of clothes with three sisters. I like to have an abundance of activities to keep me busy, which include: track, basketball, volleyball, showing pigs and cattle (also have goats), school groups, friends and work.

MACY MAREK Washington High School Riberside, IA macym_1@hotmail.com

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Hi everyone! So honored and excited to be here, and can’t wait to meet all of you. Known to most of my school as “that hippie vegan girl”, I’d describe myself as a super progressive social justice activist. I come from an oppressively hot, conservative town in South Florida, and am heading for freezing, ultra-liberal Brown University next year (looking forward to the “slight” change)! I’m passionate about environmental sustainability and human rights, and am planning to study International Relations in college. My goal for the next 3 days: speak to all 149 of you, establish lifelong friendships and connections, and down at least 10 Honest Teas (OK I must admit I’m a bit tea-obsessed...)

LAUREN MAUNUS South Fork High School Palm City, FL laurenmaunus@gmail.com

Hi! I am a performer by nature and philanthropist by choice. When I am not stand-up paddle boarding in the ocean, I am either performing on stage for an audience, coding a website for my school, or raising awareness for orphaned children in Africa. Jack Johnson is my favorite musical artist while Vincent Van Gogh is my favorite post-impressionist artist. You can always bribe me with Mexican food, and if you were wondering, yes, my name is actually Guy.

Greetings Scholars! I live in a county that has more cattle than people; I was raised on a 6th generation Florida family farm. I have shown cattle all over the United States and have been quite successful with my small timber operation. I also show swine and goats throughout the Southeast. However, I like to clean up from time to time as I am currently Miss Florida Forestry and Miss U.S. National Turpentine Queen. I love to talk and compete in public speaking all over the United States.

In high school, I am the FFA President, Tri-M Music Honor Society President, FBLA VicePresident, NHS President, Feature Majorette, Varsity Hi-Q Academic Team Captain, and Varsity Cheerleading Captain.

SHELBI MCCALL Dixie County High School Mayo, FL shelbi.mccall@yahoo.com

GUY MCELENEY Huntington Beach High School Long Beach, CA guy.mceleney@gmail.com

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Fit myself and all my quirks in 700 characters?

Impossible. Have that be the first impression before an awesome group of future world leaders?! No pressure. My name is Belén. I was born in Chile and raised in Miami, Florida. I love challenges, whether it’s speech and debate or putting together silly art projects with my friends. I’m extremely excited to be a Coke Scholar and overwhelmed by the enormous opportunity it represents. This whole experience has been reminiscent of a line by Lupita Nyong’o: “No matter where you’re from, your dreams are valid.”

If you’re reading this, it means i’ve caught your attention (stay with me): I am a city girl born in Buenos Aires and raised in Miami, determined to see every bit of this world. I spend maybe too much time reading Jane Austen, Thomas Hardy and probably every YA novel I can get my hands on. I’ve spent the past 4 years fighting Racism and Hate in my community, volunteering at my Temple, battling with Calculus, and developing addictions to Coffee and Diet Coke (seems fitting). I’m incredibly honored and excited to be here and meet all of you amazing people-Cheers to our Coca-Cola family!

DANIELA MICHANIE Dr. Michael M. Krop Senior High School Miami, FL dmichanie.mkhs@gmail.com

BELÉN MELLA Miami Beach Senior High School Sunny Isles Beach, FL mellabelen@gmail.com

Hi! I’m a small town boy from a place where we get school vacation to harvest potatoes.

Fun fact: I can see Canada from my house (so I should be Vice President, duh). I’m from a French community, which is also the place where “Kacy Hickox brought Ebola.” I’m an actor, a singer, and a dancer - I actually got to sing at the Grand Ole Opry with the All National Choir! I love volunteering, especially with an amazing nonprofit that focuses on teenage leadership development. I am known for doing everything, from nordic skiing to tap dancing, and for my uncanny sense of humor (my college essay was about my bathroom). I feel so blessed to be among all of you and I can’t wait to meet you!

JARED MICHAUD Community High School Fort Kent, ME jared.michaud@sad27.org

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BLAKE MILLER Crestline High School Crestline, OH miller.blake96@gmail.com

Congratulations Scholars! I can’t wait to meet all of you amazing people! This is going to be an awesome experience --I just know it. I’m not sure where to start, so I’ll just jump right into it! My favorite color is blue, I have five siblings, I LOVE macaroni and cheese (and chocolate), I play the flute and the trumpet, and English is my second language (my parents are Mexican immigrants, so my first language is Spanish).

I have participated and held offices in: FIRST Robotics, Key Club, National Honor Society, Students Today Leaders Tomorrow, and ASB. I also enjoy playing soccer and helping out the community wherever I’m needed. See anything familiar? Hit me up! Have nothing in common? Find me anyways! I promise I don’t bite.

2015 COCA-COLA SCHOLARS

My name is Ja’Laquan Mitchell from Dayton, OH! I enjoy writing poetry, helping in the community, and drawing (and sometimes I’m even good at). I want to be a physician specializing in pain-management and eventually want to open my own practice in a disadvantaged neighborhood. For simplicity, I am going to describe myself in a tweet (sound familiar?): “ I’m a dedicated mentor, student, and tea lover. Curiously curious as to why I’m always curious and an aspiring physician with a great smile.” Oh! I almost forgot. Something ironic about this whole thing is that I don’t drink soda-shh….

JA’LAQUAN MITCHELL Paul Lawrence Dunbar High School Dayton, OH jalaquanm@gmail.com

ANABEL MORENA-MENDEZ Umatilla High School Umatilla, OR anabelmorenamendez@gmail.com

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Hello Scholars! I am thrilled to meet each and every one of you. Thanks to the CocaCola Scholars Foundation we have been given this opportunity to unify our different backgrounds to form a revolutionary culture that will impact the world. I am both African-American and Latino, which explains my unique taste buds. I have been called a visionary, so I believe even the most creative ideas can become a reality. My spontaneity calls for different experiences and new ideas every day.I love people who enjoy having a great time. I’m a night owl on the weekends and an early bird during the week, but I am always doing something. Please tell me to slow down every now and then; I tend to forget.

I am so excited to be a part of the Scholars weekend with you all! Here’s a few things that you may like to know about me. My middle name is Casper (like the friendly ghost), but call me whatever you would like. I’m about 5’10”, and my dog looks up to me. I am also a passionate listener/writer/performer of music in all genres, and can tell you anything you might want to know about the tuba. If you have no interest in that, feel free to talk to me about another instrument of mine! For those of you who were wondering, I do enjoy long walks on the beach but prefer not to walk alone. Most importantly, I am looking forward to meeting you all and learning about the interesting things that you do!

DREW MYERS Franklin Regional Senior High School Murrysville, PA 15myersd@gmail.com

ISAIAH MURRAY Brooks Academy of Science & Engineering San Antonio, TX isaiahmurray001@gmail.com

The strings of a smooth guitar are as likely to play from my iPod as a heavy bass, but Spanish songs call my ears home. When my color pencils aren’t rolling around my desk while sketching robots, Pokemon or indigenous people, they are carefully organized in chromatic order - yes, all 250 of them! I observe, ramble on for hours about social activists, and argue that the best feeling is laughing until my stomach pleads mercy.

This is my small world, but I haven’t seen others, and my eyes yearn for fulfillment! I hope that this weekend will expose me to many worlds other than my own. I can’t wait to see yours!

NAILY NEVAREZ North Marion High School Aurora, OR nailynevarez@gmail.com

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Hello Scholars! I’m a short girl with a big appetite. I enjoy consuming food, media, and above all, knowledge. I inherited this hunger to learn from my parents. My family immigrated to the United States solely for access to better education, so I read and watch and listen voraciously. At our house, we care about storytelling, service, innovation, and the FIFA World Cup. Go Germany!

ANIKA NISHAT Lawrence North High School Indianapolis, IA anikanishat@yahoo.com

Congratulations Scholars! Do I have any fellow Manchester United fans here? If soccer’s not your thing I also love football, basketball, baseball, etc.; and I run track year round. If any of you have a cool idea for a start-up company, we should talk because I’m all about making a profit. I flip cars with my uncle in the summer, and I’m super into investing.

In my free time I like to golf, play FIFA, watch shows like House of Cards on Netflix, or get to the beach if the weather is nice. Finally, I’m choosing between UConn, UVA, and or WUSTL for a degree in Finance. I’m extremely excited to meet all of you and I can’t wait to stay in touch, so follow me on social media if you’re interested!

Hello, I am Zaria from Denver,Colorado, but I was born Minnesota - so I am pretty used to the cold. I enjoy participating in public speaking events, including Speech and Debate, Mock Trial, and Model UN. In debate I focus on Lincoln Douglas debate and philosophy. Also, I love playing volleyball, watching TV and movies, browsing Pinterest, and tracking my fantasy football team. I have two pet birds: Whistle, a cockatiel, and Bell, a parakeet. I look forward to meeting all of you; I’m sure this will be a lovely experience that I am happy I get to share with an amazing group.

ZARIA NOBLE Kent Denver School Denver, CO noblecat7@comcast.com

JEFFREY NOONAN Bacon Academy Colchester, CT noonanja@yahoo.com

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Greetings! I believe sunflowers talk to us and would much rather ride with the windows down. I am lactose intolerant but have a chronic coffee ice cream habit. I believe knowledge is the most valuable of currencies (aside from hope), so I’m an avid reader and curious about most things. I love to wear clip-on earrings from an antique store in my town, but they make my ears itch.

Life Goals: 1. Be appointed Secretary of Education 2. Open a custom trouser shop in a city near you 3. Read my poetry at a president’s inauguration 4. Open affordable top- notch schools in every community 5. Build my own bike In all seriousness, I am very thankful for this opportunity and look forward to meeting each Scholar.

Like most Coca-Cola Scholars, I am an ambitious student (who rarely sleeps) and I always have a new project on my plate.

Right now, I am expanding my business, GN Marketing, where my team and I build websites, develop marketing material, and aid small businesses. In March, I ended my term as Governor of the Illinois-Eastern Iowa District of Key Club International. I served over 200 clubs and 10,000 members by creating partnerships with non-profit organizations, gaining sponsorships with businesses, and developing the leaders throughout the district. In my “free time” I enjoy anything and everything outdoors: backpacking, camping, white water rafting, rock climbing, biking, etc.

GRAHAM NOVAK Naperville North High School Naperville, IL gonovak25@gmail.com

ANITA NORMAN Arlington High School Arlington, TN eenorman96@hotmail.com

Yo yo my name is GRACE, Not really sure why I wrote that in uppercase. I’m the youngest girl of three, And I’m a Cali beach bum who loves the sea. I’m a low key coding freak, As well as a theater actress every week. I’m obsessed with peanut butter, Watching Gossip Girl makes my heart flutter. My hobbies include ninja rolling down the halls, And hiking mountains and water falls. Or regrowing axons on a rat’s spinal cord, And flipping off the high diving board. Feel free to ask me more about who I am, I’m stoked to be part of the Coca-Cola fam!

GRACE O’BRIEN Tesoro High School Rancho Santa Margarita, CA graceobrien17@aol.com

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What’s up?! The Sky! At heart I am a warrior.

I love competitions but I also like to joke around a lot. If you like to debate about topics then I would love to talk to you. If you play sports, chess, or video games then, hello!

Dream of making a difference in the world one day? Then we should definitely talk! I am a thrill seeker that cherishes being outdoors and enjoys going on hikes to explore. These are merely a few things about me. It is very exciting to be apart of this program filled with individuals who are leaders of their communities and forces of change. I can not wait to meet everyone!

JOSEPH OROSCO Pomona High School Pomona, CA joseph32_angels@yahoo.com

Salut, mes amis. I’m very grateful to be part of this group filled with exceptionally talented people.

I’ve lived in Accra, Ghana my whole life (15 years) until last two years, I moved to America. Coming to America was like a dream come true. I was very excited because I would have numerous opportunities but I was also sad because I would leave behind my grandma and my friends. In terms of weather (it’s like 80° every day in Ghana), school systems, culture, and lifestyle, everything is different. PS I’m now adjusting to Worcester’s cold and bipolar weather. My first day of school in America, I got lost a few times and I couldn’t eat because every food I tasted was too “sweet”. I have so many random interests. Play the piano?

Me too! I enjoy cooking as much as I love eating.

Chinese food is the best thing ever created by man.

I “exercise” by eating ice cream! I think I’m going to be the first person to introduce myself to everybody at Conference in April. Don’t feel shy to say hello to me when you see me. I really can’t wait to see you all. Je suis tres contente et j’ai plein de papillon.

Hi, I’m Sydney and I’m an athlete, a linguist, and a global citizen. Oh, yeah, and a teenager, too! I fence and play golf (do chess and croquet count as sports?) and I can speak French and read Spanish. I studied Russian in Moldova over the summer and hope to continue to study it in college while I pursue a major in international relations. I like lychee-flavored beverages, 80s movies, and hiking. I am so thrilled and honored to be part of the Coca-Cola Scholars community and I look forward to meeting everyone!

SYDNEY OSWALD South High School Denver, CO sydneyoswald@msn.com

EDITH OTABIL Burncoat Senior High School Worcester, MA edithmotabil@gmail.com

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Hi everyone! I can’t wait to get to know all of you this weekend. Here’s a little bit more about me: I’m really interested in all things STEM, my Kindle is always by my side, and I’m a Carnatic (Classical Indian) and Western violinist. My passions are in the intersection of education, technology, and research and I’m looking forward to pursuing them in the future!

Hello! Originally from Tifton, GA (not too far from Atlanta!), I unfortunately lost my southern accent in my move to the Pacific Northwest.

I’m really interested in research, biotechnology, and health care, but I am also an avid fan of slam poetry, Pokémon, and philosophy. I’m not entirely sure what my future plans are, but I hope to find a way to bridge my passion for biomedical research and my love of community service to create a career/adventure that’ll keep me interested for a number of years to come.

I look forward to having the opportunity of meeting you so I can learn about your interests and what drives you to serve your communities!

ANEESH PAPPU Pullman High School Pullman, WA apappu97@gmail.com

ALKA PAI Nikola Tesla Stem High School Redmond, WA alkagpai@gmail.com

Hi, Scholars! I’m a Peruvian who lives in Kansas. Weird, I know. My mom was born in Cuzco, Peru and moved to the states when she was 17. Culture is very important to me, and family always comes first. My household consists of my mother and my sister who is currently studying mechanical engineering at K-State. Much of my family lives in Lima. In school, I am heavily involved in speech and debate; I frequent the local HI, OO, and the policy circuits. I am also a student journalist, community volunteer, and self-taught oboist.

I’m busy like many of you. I want to study political theory and economic sociology in college with an emphasis on how economic status impacts personal relationships.

MATTHEW PARODI Louisburg High School Louisburg, KS mvparodi87@gmail.com

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Hailing from a close-knit Italian community in South Philadelphia, I’m an optimistic and bubbly individual planning to become an international journalist and missionary. I’m involved with 9 bajillion activities (any fellow Relay for Lifer’s out there?) and I try to live each day to the fullest. CONGRATULATIONS TO ALL OF YOU AND I KNOW YOU WILL ALL DO AMAZING THINGS THAT WILL MAKE THIS WORLD A BETTER PLACE! Coca Cola Scholars unite!!

JESSICA PASQUARELLO Saint Maria Goretti High School Philadelphia, PA 20152025@neumanngorettihs.org

Hi everyone! I’m excited to meet you all. You might want to know a bit about me: I’m a Camasonian from Washington, who plays piano, composes music, researches HIV, participates in DECA, and much more! So I’ve told you about me; I can’t wait to get to know a bit about you!

Hi! These paragraphs are always a bit awkward to write because I never know what to include, but here goes nothing!

My interests range from public speaking to promoting diversity. I plan to pursue a career as a physician in the future, with a specialty in either neurology or pediatrics. If I had to sum myself up in a few words, I would say I am an independent, passionate, and driven individual. I have amazing support from my family and community, and without them I would not be here today. Looking forward to meeting everyone!

JANKI PATEL Bartlett High School West Chicago, IL jppatel397@gmail.com

REESAB PATHAK Camas Senior High School Camas, A reesabp@gmail.com

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I’m from the bluegrass state, where we yell “GO BIG BLUE” and cheer on our favorite horse in the Kentucky Derby. I love my Kentucky Wildcats and I love sports in general. I play basketball, football, and baseball and couldn’t like them any more than I already do. My family holds a special place in my heart. I love to have fun and I enjoy a variety of music and activities. I play president some at my school and I’m involved in a couple of clubs here and there. I aspire to be an orthopedic surgeon specializing in sports medicine and hope to someday change the world for the better. I feel so honored to be a Coke Scholar and I am so excited for this opportunity.

Hey guys! Hmmm... where do I start? Well, I suppose I’ll begin by congratulating each and every single one of you amazing human beings! I’m a 4’11 (yes, I know I’m short), curly haired, bubbly, spunky, enthusiastic gal. I love the little things in life, and hope to devote my upcoming years to bettering the community and society as a whole. I may be a small girl, but trust me when I tell you that I could dream big! I love dancing, and participate in tons of other activities (so chances are, we’ll find something in common). I’m really friendly and I love meeting new people, so please say hi! I get really excited when people tell me their lifelong dreams and aspirations, I think that is beautiful. I have a really big heart and although I’m sensitive at times, I can be assertive as well. I’m from Sin City, but instead of touring around, I love reading and writing. One of my favorite things to do is give speeches... I could talk for hours! (as you could probably tell) I feel so blessed to be part of this family and I can’t wait to meet all of you! P.S. I hope to be the President one day!

AYLEEN PERRY Canyon Springs High School Las Vegas, NV ally perry84@gmail.com

MARK PAYTON Eminence School Smithfield, KY tfresh222@gmail.com

Canadian roots (hmu for maple syrup), but I grew up in a little beach town in Southern California. “Let’s Get Tropical” is the name of the boat I made; I use it to cope with senioritis by fishing far more than I should.

I play everything from gypsy-jazz guitar to the accordion. I’m a big fan of school spirit, sports, live music, and eating good food.

Should probably stop writing this before it starts to look like a Tinder bio, but I’m looking forward to getting inspired by each of you in Atlanta!

OLIVER PILTCH San Marcos High School Santa Barbara, CA piltcholiver@gmail.com

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Hello Scholars! I am so excited to be named a Coca-Cola Scholar and look forward to many great years with the program. Here is a short list/bio about me (in no particular order): 1.

Apple pie enthusiast. 2. Devoted Linguist.

3. STEM Advocate 4. Anna with an “A” -The taller of the twins. 5. A lover of learning and cheesy jokes. 6. MUNer 7. Researcher. I look forward to meeting all of you and talking to everyone about their special interests (and, of course, the rap battle!). I hope everyone has a wonderful weekend here in Atlanta! #cocacolascholars2k15

ANNA RAHEEM Collierville High School Collierville, TN annau2019@gmail.com

Hello! Namaste! Halō! Bonjuor! Hallå! Hola!

My ethnic background is literally a melting pot, but I am fluent in all seven languages, of course being better in some than others. I’m a water fanatic that surfs and snorkels. Being a professional diver, I am training for upcoming national competitions. Seeing the need for medical education, I founded the Human Empathy Rights Organization while being the president of various organizations. I envision myself as a pediatric neurosurgeon while obtaining a political position, advocating for advancement in our global health system. Fun Facts: Publishing a book in May. Indian vocal CD releasing in June. Mission work in Mali, Egypt and Australia.

Hey, guys! I’m Anne, and you can call me Anne for short! I like dessert (food in general), multi-tasking (there just aren’t enough hours in a day), and long walks/runs on the beach (although I don’t live anywhere near one anymore!). I love being active, and play soccer, basketball, badminton, and much more! I am also a martial artist, practicing taekwondo.

If you like those things, or STEM and world peace, we have something in common. I’m the product of the opportunities I have been given and the people who have inspired me and hope to aid others in gaining opportunities and confidence through success in STEM. Don’t hesitate to talk to me or e-mail me at any point!

I look forward to getting to know all of you.

ANNE RAHEEM Collierville High School Collierville, TN anneraheem@gmail.com

CINDY RAJKUMAR Ocoee High School Ocoee, FL cindy.rajkumar@gmail.com

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Hey y’all! Very humbled to be part of such a talented group of individuals. As a die-hard Brooklyn Nets fan, pharmacology research intern, aspiring marathon runner, and nationalcircuit policy debater, I’m sure we have a lot in common. I believe education is a right, and I’m very passionate about my work as president for Teach2Learn New York. I’ve recently become involved with a nonprofit called United 4 Social Change that’s geared towards writing news articles about social issues; if anyone is interested in writing, please let me know!

Looking forward to having a blast with y’all in ATL.

Writing and Girl Scouts have been two huge influences in my life. I’m involved with the student newspaper and literary magazine and have been a Girl Scout since first grade.

Aside from playing board games and eating brunch, I’m also an expert at bad dancing and coloring books. I love constantly reevaluating my ideas through debate, and I can’t help myself from playing devil’s advocate or overthinking Orwell. I like running outside and playing tennis and baking pre-mixed brownies. Next year, I’ll be studying at the University of Pennsylvania. In the future I hope to hike up Machu Picchu in Perú and I have a firm commitment to continuing volunteer work throughout my career.

ANIKA RANGIANANI Lyons Township High School North Burr Ridge, IL ran404339@student.lths.net

AKSHAY RAMASWAMY Lakeland Senior High School Mohegan Lake, NY akshayramaswamy1@gmail.com

I’ve been an outsider all of my life. As an agnostic Asian-American in Utah, my whole life has been defined by being the minority.

Who did math for eight hours a day? Who woke up at 5:30 am to travel to a research lab?

Who stayed up until 3:00 am the following day playing video games? I look forward to meeting everyone!

BOVEY RAO Hillcrest High School Draper, UT boveyrao@yahoo.com

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I think it is a rite of passage of sorts. My two favorite television shows have ended or will be ending by the time I officially become a college student. Jon Stewart and Stephen Colbert, what am I to do now? Pardon my emotional attachment to these TV shows, but they were one of the first things I watched when I moved to the US. I was born and raised in Singapore and migrated to Colorado at the age of eleven. I have had a multicultural upbringing in a sense, having learned three different languages and exposed to various worldly cultures. I like to think of myself as a Renaissance man with a wide range of interests.

Aside from school and work, I am an avid tennis player, beatboxer, and saxophonist. I am a big politics and history buff who also happens to able to rap “Empire State of Mind” by Jay-z. I am extremely honored to a part of the 2015 class of the Coca-Cola Scholars Program and hope to build lasting relationships with my fellow Scholars. I am excited to meet and interact with everyone.

Anyone else part of the Colbert Nation?

SURAJ RENGANATHAN Fort Collins High School Fort Collins, CO surajr4@outlook.com

I’m a technophile who loves all things digital. A dual citizen of France and the United States, I speaks four languages, plus the language of tech. I founded TeenTechSF to empower the next generation of tech innovators by providing equal access to all teens to tech opportunities and resources. Since launching, we’ve connected 1000 teens on five continents with tech leaders from Apple to Zynga.

Last summer, I visited the Large Hadron Collider at CERN, the Human Brain Project at EFPL, and worked at UCSF’s Neuroscience Lab as a programmer incorporating bleeding edge technology from Oculus Rift and Kinect to research the effect of physical effort on cognitive training. I enjoy playing varsity soccer, varsity badminton, snowboarding, and am a League of Legends diamond level player.

I am completing the the French baccalaureate scientifique and have been accepted early at Stanford. Shout out to my sister, Emilie Robert Wong, a 2013 National Coca-Cola Scholar!

Marhaba/Salvē/Bonjour/Yiassou/Hi! I love languages-Indo-European, nonIndo-European, “dead,” whatever-and I’m passionate about increasing the quality and availability of foreign language programs for U.S. students. I’m also a political junkie who reads Supreme Court opinions and world leaders’ biographies for fun. My role models are Condoleezza Rice and Leslie Knope, though when I was younger I revered Nancy Drew. (I still match wits with mysteries and logic puzzles.) When I’m not translating Vergil or catching up on international news, I enjoy golfing, organizing events, playing the flute, traveling, and eating mint chocolate desserts. I’m very honored to be part of this outstanding group.

DEVYN RIGSBY Northside College Prep High School Chicago, IL dcrigsby@cps.edu

MARC ROBERT WONG French American International School San Francisco, CA marcrobertwong@gmail.com

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I am passionate about community service, particularly development, and cultural immersion through travel. Two of my more formative experiences include eight weeks spent working on community development projects in the rural Peruvian highlands and eight weeks in rural southern Mexico. I also recently tackled ecological conservation projects and research in Chilean Patagonia this last January. When I am in Kansas City, I keep myself busy with my school’s Math Club, Engineering Club, Spanish Club, National Honor Society, Model UN, and Justice League.

I also spend a lot of time as a grade school teacher’s assistant, grading papers and tutoring younger students.

Nice to meet you, where you been? I could show you incredible things (like fun facts about bacteria!)..Hey lovely scholars! I’m Patty from Texas-- a glasses-wearing, Taylor Swift song singing, and average-female-height breaking enthusiastic girl living on the U.S.Mexico borderland. As a passionate musician (vocalist, pianist, former french-hornist) and devoted world changer, you will most likely find me spontaneously singing to myself while exchanging innovative community outreach ideas with you all come scholars weekend. I am a lover of culture in both its forms: learning about cultural traditions and culturing bacteria. I dream to engage in medicine and ground-breaking social empowerment.

PATRICIA RODARTE Riverside High School El Paso, TX patricia.rodarte7@gmail.com

JACKSON ROBERTS Rockhurst High School Kansas City, MO jacksonroberts@amdg.rockhursths.edu

Hello! Jack-sit, Jack-stand, Jack-lean, that’s me! I am from an incredibly small town which means all I want to do in life is explore! Well explore, learn, and innovate! I am probably interested in ANYTHING you have to say and will always be up for an adventure! Let’s go study physics, rock climb, sing a duet, or build a computer, I am READY! We can cry and laugh together as we plan our ways to benefit the world! I don’t mind listening to Big Sean while I read Shakespeare, or twerking while I write an essay. I just go with the flow, you know?

JACQUELINE ROMAN Coshocton High School Coshocton, OH jacquelineroman2004@yahoo.com

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Howdy everybody! I hail from a land of corn, basketball, and race cars just outside of Indianapolis, Indiana. I have a passion for life, laughter, and anything covered in chocolate.

In my very limited free time, I love to play volleyball, binge-watch Netflix, and spoil my dog, Toby. I plan to attend Purdue University next year to study nursing so if there are any other Boilermakers in the group, be sure to find me! I can’t wait to meet all of you, and I hope that we can all be friends. :)

SARAH ROMINGER New Palestine High School New Palestine, IN missr3343@sbcglobal.net

Hey everybody! So honored to be part of this group! Just a little bit about me, I love telling riddles (I’ll include one at the bottom) and jokes. I spend most of my day laughing and trying to cram in all the other things I have to do in one day. I am an aspiring engineer and currently work for a science non-profit called Iridescent Learning. I love being able to teach younger kids about the wonders of science and hopefully I can do the same for a few of you as well! Riddle:What instrument plays music from the heart? Answer: An organ!

Hello! I love Boston sports teams, especially the Red Sox and the Patriots. I am a triplet, and my brothers’ names are Brian and Tim. Running is one of my passions, and we are cocaptains of the track and cross country teams.

I am also passionate about safe teen driving and peer-to-peer education. I have been involved with distracted driving prevention at the state and national level, and I hope to help eradicate texting and driving across the country. I am excited to join the Coca-Cola Family and learn about the backgrounds and interests of all of the other Scholars! I believe that communication is a powerful tool for the Coca-Cola Scholars network to work together to create positive change and refresh the world!

MATTHEW SALIT Seekonk High School Seekonk, MA kdsalit@comcast.net

O’BRIAN SANTOS South Gate Senior High School South Gate, CA obrian.santos@gmail.com

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Greetings! A diehard Buffalo Bills fan, I cannot wait for my hometown team to win the Super Bowl next year… or at least within my lifetime.

Aside from supporting my local sports teams, I enjoy sailing, biking, running, and kayaking.

I am a cellist, a Model UN delegate, a reader, a coffee addict, a juvenile justice reform advocate, a future politician, and a lover of life and Italian food. It is a tremendous honor to be able to call myself a 2015 Coca-Cola Scholar, and I look forward to making and maintaining lifelong friendships with each of you.

LOVE life, HELP others, LEAD with heart and CHANGE lives. I’m a small town girl chasing BIG world dreams!! I sing all the time, love volleyball, can’t miss a bonfire, boots and flannel shirts are in my closet and my family will always be just around the corner! My faith, family, friends, school and community have made me who I am today and shown me what matters most in life-people. Need a smile? I have an endless supply. Need a prom dress? I have one waiting for you at my dress drive. Do you cringe when you hear about domestic violence? Walk in high-heeled shoes at my Heels for Hope Walk to raise awareness. Want to change the world?

SIGN ME UP! I have more service ideas than shoes and I’m just getting started!! “A dream you dream alone is only a dream, a dream you dream together is REALITY”. Ready to change the world with my Coca-Cola family!

HAYLIE SCHMOLL Licking Valley High School Newark, OH haylieschmoll@g.lickingvalley.k12.oh.us

BENJAMIN SCHAFER Orchard Park High School Orchard Park, NY bjschafer@aol.com

Hi all! I’m extremely interested in technology and computer science. I’ve explored a variety of areas (coding competitions, robotics, android development, educational games, website development, research), but I’m still not sure what I enjoy most! I like the logical aspect of solving problems, but I also greatly enjoy being able to apply my ideas to real life problems (especially education and humancomputer interactions). When I’m not coding, I enjoy playing the saxaphone in marching/ jazz band, playing chess, and reading. I’m extremely grateful to have been chosen, and I can’t wait to meet you all in Atlanta!

MARTIN SCHNEIDER Upper Dublin High School Dresher, PA mfranzs123@gmail.com

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I am so thrilled to become a member of the Coca-Cola Scholars family, and for this opportunity to make lifelong friendships with you all! I’m from a small, rural town where everyone seems to know everyone, but I love networking and meeting other leaders from different areas. I’m an adventurer- a girl not afraid to try new things. My hobbies span from producing academic competitions, to sailing my Lasers, trying strange ethnic foods, traveling, laughing at science jokes, and lots of things in between. My next big adventure? Meeting and bonding with all of you! I look forward to sharing some awesome adventures, and making memories that will last a life time!

KATHLEEN SCHWIND Arroyo Grande High School Arroyo Grande, CA jwkragain@yahoo.com

I’m involved in a lot of activities, and I enjoy trying new things! I’m SGA President and a Girl Scout Youth Leader. I’m also a pianist, dancer, and golfer! I have been interning at NIH for the past two years - I love biomedical research and computer science! I am super involved in raising awareness about human trafficking, and I hope you will consider joining my anti-trafficking initiative, TRUST (Together we Rise Up to Stop Trafficking)!

Llamas are my favorite animal and I’m a roller coaster enthusiast! I also enjoy editing Wikipedia, putting together puzzles, and scrapbooking! I am so excited to be a part of the Coca Cola Scholars family, and I look forward to meeting everyone! :)

Hi, everyone! I’m a vegetarian environmentalist who loves animals, pop music, tennis, and art. I’d love to talk about LGBT stuff, Ellie Goulding, or that weird anecdote that you start every new friendship with. Hope to meet some of you soon!

DOMINIC SCICCHITANO Berwick Area Senior High School Berick, PA shick@pa.metrocast.net

MEENA SENGOTTUVELU River Hill High School Clarksville, MD meenadevi@comcast.net

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Hi, I’m Paul! And no, I’m not the three-eyed monkey at the end of every Jimmy Neutron episode you probably watched as a child.

That’s the first thing most people mention when I meet them. I love to run outside, bingewatch Netflix, and jam out while I drive. But don’t worry. My need for speed remains on the track, where I run the 400, 800, and 1600 meter races. I also play the guitar…casually. I can barely sight read notes, but I can rock out to “Dust in the Wind” any day! As the second child of four, family is really important to me, and I am elated to become part of the Coca-Cola Scholars family!

Hi there! I’m a Muslim woman city girl who likes to explore new adventures, especially in the city of Chicago. Recently, I discovered my passion for writing, focusing on writing creative non-fiction about my experiences that I encounter, as well as writing political fiction. Watching football, especially the Bears, is also my favorite thing to do. Although I’m not athletic, sports are my entertainment. I have three sisters that are very different from me, but I love them dearly. I am excited to learn so much from this new adventure and I’m sure you are too!

BUSHRA SHAHID Uplift Community School Chicago, IL bushrashahid3@gmail.com

PAUL SERRATO Apalachee High School Winder, GA paulserrato44@gmail.com

Hello! I’m from a small farming village in Pakistan (we grow mangoes, my favorite fruit!). When I was young, my parents immigrated to the U.S. to pursue a better life for me. In America, I’ve been fortunate to develop my love for engineering and politics.

In the future, I aim to innovate in robotics while advocating for better education. I’m driven by the belief that America is the Land of Opportunity, so I plan to serve in public office to benefit our country. I hope to improve STEM education while expanding our great opportunities. Also, I’m ecstatic to learn about everyone. Passionate about robots? Same here! Excited for the 2016 election? Me too! Like rapping? I’ll free-style with you!

AHMAD SHAWWAL Massaponax High School Fredericksburg, VA ashawwal@yahoo.com

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P. Sherman 42 Wallaby Way, Sydney. It’s not my address, but it makes my name hard to forget! My down under is eastern PA. Along with swimming, tennis, and horse riding, I enjoy playing the violin and piano. In my spare time I raise puppies to be Seeing Eye Guide dogs and am a volunteer EMT at my local ambulance squad. I have always had a fascination with fossils and bones, and have amassed a pretty cool collection “artifacts” collected while hiking various trails around the country. My favorite thing to eat is pizza, to wear - cowboy boots and to read biographies. Someday I would love to hike the entire Appalachian trail.

SYDNEY SHERMAN Archbishop Wood High School Wrightstown, PA spiritrocks@comcast.net

Hi new friends! I’m so so so (x10000000) excited to be here and to meet you all. Yes, I’m from Idaho.

I know the question you’re all thinking... and the answer is no. I do NOT live on a potato farm and have actually never been to one! I think the best way to get to know someone is to learn all of the little quirks about them. Here are some of mine: my favorite color is forest green. I’m obsessed with big band jazz music and movie scores. I collect houseplants, specifically succulents and cacti. My favorite instrument is the saxophone. I love all things nature. I studied classical ballet for thirteen years. I’ve done a TED Talk. I’m the chair of external relations on the board of a 501(c)3 nonprofit. I’m deathly afraid of tape measures. I love theatre and just played Rosie in Bye Bye Birdie, which included being thrown across the stage and performing a fifteen minute satire-murder sequence. I keep a picnic/stargazing blanket in my car at all times. I’m a graduate of the Stanford Design School. I’m thrilled to be here in Atlanta meeting all of you!

Hello, Scholars! Besides being thrilled and grateful to be a part of this incredible group of people, I’m a percussionist, pianist, vocalist, songwriter/composer, thespian, poetry enthusiast, aspiring writer, non-snobby coffee drinker, psychology fanatic, chronically late human, Spongebob/SNL/meme referencer, amateur yogi and dancer, and morningshowerer. I am awed at the possibilities and potential for our collaborations in nonprofits and service across the country and throughout the world and cannot wait to see where our connections take us.

EMMA SHIBLEY Centreville High School Dayton, OH emma.k.shibley@gmail.com

KATHRYN SIMONDS Timberline High School Boise, ID katesimonds9@gmail.com

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Hi! How awesome does it feel to be a Coke Scholar?! It’s easily my favorite predicate nominative of 2015. I’m a fan of all things golf, crochet, and intellectual. I enjoy integrating my passion for sports and STEM with community service, and I plan to center my career in biomedical engineering around these interests.

My latest endeavor is developing a blog where I post my ideas on quantum physics, philosophy, and current events. I’m excited to have my mind blown at Scholar’s Week by everyone’s amazing initiatives!

I am an inquisitive, imaginative book addict whose goal is to serve others through medicine and the art of giving. Born in Texas from English and American parents I have developed a love of exploring cultures. This exploration has left me with a network of friends that extend from the US through Brazil, Italy, China, Russia and Columbia - and I feel that I have only just begun. I am proud to have joined the Coca Cola Scholars program and look forward to reveling in the company of such an esteemed group of geniuses.

HUNTER SNOWDEN John H. Guyer High School Lantana, TX huntersnowden@gmail.com

SAMANTHA SMITH Bellaire Senior High School Bellaire, TX samantha1golfs@yahoo.com

When most people think of Venice, California they think of people who surf, skate, and are “high” on something other than life. That’s not me. I volunteer in my community, mentor, and enjoy the different cuisines in Los Angeles.

I mostly read school assigned books, which means we have all probably read the same books and can discuss them. I enjoy the warm weather of Los Angeles, and pity those who don’t live in California. I have never been to Atlanta, and I am excited to be there and meet so many amazing peers!

LISA SOBAJIAN Venice High School Los Angeles, CA lsobajian@aol.com

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I am so excited to be a part of this program and cannot wait to meet you all! I am an avid runner, swimmer, baker/eater, and reader.

Recently, I started doing cross fit which is a blast. Also, I am trying to save sea turtles - it’s a work in progress.

CASEY SOKOLOVIC D. H. Conley High School Winterville, NC dkcc@live.com

I’m excited and honored to be included in this year’s class of Scholars! I’m a lifelong sports fan, and I’ve been brought up on the great game of golf. I’ve also been taken by soccer, volleyball, and (fantasy) football. Off the field, I like to consider myself a “mathlete”.

However, my true academic love is physics.

I’m captivated by the idea that we can describe the very fundamental aspects of our surroundings with equations. My dream is to contribute to the Theory of Everything. Finally, I believe service is a crucial part of the human experience. A teen philanthropy board has taught me the true value of contributing to the greater good. See you in Atlanta, Class of 2015!

Hey! I’m a thinker. A debater. An annoying devil’s advocate. I like talking about everything- it doesn’t matter if we’re discussing Heidegger, HTC’s phones, or heuristics. My passions are primarily medicine, homelessness, and technology.

My brother Nitish Sood and I, with the help of family and friends founded a nonprofit to end homelessness. To date, we’ve served thousands of homeless across the country.

As a debater, researcher, entrepreneur, and part-time owl, I don’t really sleep much. I have fun listening to stories, and have even more fun living out experiences that turn into stories, so if you’re ever bored, or are about to go on an adventure, hit me up! I’ll definitely be there.

ADITYA SOOD Alpharetta High School Alpharetta, GA aditya.sood2@gmail.com

ALEX STOKEN Mountain Pointe High School Tempe, AZ alex.stoken@gmail.com

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Four words to describe me? Alpha. Diligent.

Conservational. Proactive. Insurrectionary. Football, Wrestling, Track. Clubs. AP courses. Work, work, work.

I’m a proud insomniac. I’m also in love with the Coco.

That is Coca-Cola Foundation. Having the chance to meet everyone here is great. We all go super hard in some aspect in life whether it’s facing adversity, having superb grades, being apart of NASA, or writing the next big novel. My life has been a bumper yet diligent path. I take on every task I’m faced with full throttle. While I may not be the brightest of the bunch I can promise you that I will never give up.

This truth has held true in all aspects of my life. I’m adventurous which has gotten me into a small bit of trouble on occasion. I hope to someday become a doctor or a biology researcher and hopefully save millions of lives within the entirety of my life. I hope to attend Duke next year, however I do have back plans of SLU and Regis if that does not pan out. I look forward to meeting each and every one of you.

Hi! A little about me, I have moved 9 times to different states and countries but I have been living in Indiana for the past 6 years. Probably not to your surprise, cornfields border my house on two sides but Indianapolis and all of its glory is just a short 20-minute drive away.

My guilty pleasures include binge-watching documentaries, making pillow forts with my six-year-old sister, and listening to indie pop music. My interests are all over the place. I published a radio piece concerning gender images in the media on NPR; I have done scientific research on alternative detection methods for Group A streptococcus; and I am currently creating an antibullying app. Lastly, to earn your respect, I have been supporting Coke in the Coke v. Pepsi debate since ‘97.

SHANZE TAHIR Zionsville Community School Zionsville, IN tshane@yahoo.com

JAMES SYKES Affton High School St. Louis, MO sykesj@afftonschools.net

I’m Hispandian- an Indian/Hispanic fusion by birth and choice respectively. I consume Chipotle unforgivingly: about six burritos weekly. It’s pretty much my currency.

Although I obsess over specific harmonies, rest assured you’ll never here the song after 350 repeats. Dedication. Shower singing is riveting, but if you prefer an alarm to my interpretation of Ariana Grande’s Problem I understand. On that note, I’m a Shower Soap Opera Singer, conditioning stretched vocals and drowning chords in overflowing, bubbly passion. Friends ALASKA me for directions, but I can’t PERUse maps. Nobody BELIZEs my geographic ineptitude. You’ve probably picked up my dedication to punning too.

NIKHIL THAKKAR Burlington High School Burlington, MA nicktwokick@gmail.com

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With six feet of height and red hair, my appearance alone is enough to set me apart in a crowd. Like many of you, I am a strong student-athlete, active club leader, and devoted servant of the community. My dream is to become Secretary of State and lead the nation’s foreign policy. In my spare time, I enjoy bird watching, learning pop songs on the piano, and cooking. I am curious and adventurous with a flair for traveling. If I could do one thing all day, every day for the rest of my life, I would play lacrosse.

ERIN THOMAS The Culver Academies Culver, IN erin.thomas@culver.org

I was born into the best of both worlds (literally). Growing up in between the urban concrete jungles of Taipei, Taiwan and the suburban natural plains of Bartlesville, Oklahoma has been the experience of a lifetime. It’s this upbringing that has made me an equally introverted and extroverted character with a passion for the scenery of the outdoors and an equally fervent love for the people of the cities. Ironically, my name in Mandarin Chinese means “gentle and quiet” in English, yet I am anything but that. My one true love lies in politics and public service, as evidenced through my participation in Girls Nation, the U.S. Senate Youth Program and the organization I founded, Leading Ladies.

Hey there! I’m a 17 year old high school student, a systems engineer and aerospace junkie, and an advocate for project-based learning: I’m pretty sure caffeine runs in my veins at this point. I recently finished a stint at the European Organization for Nuclear Research (CERN), I’m currently working for Northrop Grumman full-time on top of my second semester work, and I’ll be putting on my rocket scientist hat this upcoming summer to work as a propulsion intern for SpaceX! I’m on a mission to make technical fields accessible to everyone; I recently started two non-profits, Magikstra and Adopt the Future, with the goal of increasing underrepresented communities’ participation in STEM fields.

COURTNEY THURSTON Commonwealth Connections Academy Mechanicsburg, PA thurscon@gmail.com

GLORIA TSO Bartlesville High School Bartlesville, OK gloriaactso@yahoo.com

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I’m a farm girl from Oklahoma that loves to show livestock and teach dance. I’m also a twin and my family does everything together! My life is a constant balancing act of homework, teaching dance, and filling out scholarship applications. Can’t wait to meet all of you!

“Olá, tudo bem?” Being born into a Brazilian and Portuguese family, I am sure that you could imagine that I love eating chorizo, enjoying a delicious churrasco and, of course, playing and watching soccer. I am extremely humbled and honored to have the opportunity to be apart of the CocaCola Scholars family, and trust that the relationships we will form and the memories we will make will last forever. As we say in Portuguese, “Quando há vida, há esperança,” which, roughly translated, means, “When there is life, there is hope.” I believe that everything happens for a reason, and I have tremendous hope for our communities, our country, and our future. Now, let’s change the world!

AUSTIN VERISSIMO East Side High School Newark, NJ austinverissimo@gmail.com

AMANDA UPTON Pauls Valley Senior High School Pauls Valley, OK ajupton11@gmail.com

In my book, success is defined as happiness, but what is happiness to me? Happiness to me is being able to positively impact others.

Happiness to me is spending time with the people I love the most. Happiness for me is being able to meet great people, just like you. In the last four years, I have been able to live happiness through participating in extracurricular activities, such as the Hispanic Honor Society, the Beta Club, The National Honor Society, and Key Club, as well as through academic achievement. In the future, I see myself helping the people in my Venezuelan homeland.

SAMUEL VILCHEZ SANTIAGO Colonial High School Orlando, FL samuelven25@gmail.com

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Hullo friends! I’m informally a (wo)man of the night’s watch. My heroes are the glorious Leonard Nimoy (may he rest in peace) and the magnificent Winston Churchill. I can’t wait to meet all of you lovely scholars! Remember, we are the masters of our fates and the captains of our souls.

ILANNA VILLAGRAN Young Women’s Leadership Academy San Antonio, TX villagran.ilanna@yahoo.com

Music, chocolate, Relay For Life, swimming, Girl Scouts, nursery service. What do these all have in common? They make up me. I play the piano and violin and love to be involved in my school and with my friends. My passion is service: locally and globally. My goal is to inspire at least one person’s life through my service; whether that is through my work with secondary school education and poverty or through my partnership with a local chocolate factory to find sustainable solutions to address poverty by facilitating small business opportunities. I have been blessed with opportunities and hope to continue to create opportunities for others.

Hi! I am involved in many clubs and organizations such as: Student Council Mayor, NHS, Best Buddies peer buddy, elementary mentor, Foreign Language Club, Character Counts, etc. I also play volleyball, basketball, and soccer and have won three state championships (2 in volleyball and 1 in basketball) with hopefully another one this March! If you love fruit pizza and Coke Icees, I think we could be soul mates. It is such an incredible honor to be a part of the Coca-Cola Scholars family and I can’t wait to meet each and every one of you! I’m looking forward to not only these next three days, but a lifelong network of friends. Please come say hi! :)

TAYLOR WAGNER Harlan Community High School Harlan, IA twagner@hcsdcyclones.com

MEREDITH WAITES Glendale High School Springfield, MO mgwaites@sbcglobal.net

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Call me nerd and adventurer. Classics are my manna; physics, my quail. Melbourne Shuffle & Poetry Walks, my sports. My violin sings, my rasgueados sweat romance, and my amp bellows. If you ask me, I’ll tell you Batman isn’t the true good guy or Joker, the true bad guy.

Don’t laugh at my closet-I’m artistically at the point where I try to create a little controversy and break stereotypes with my aesthetic.

Before each meal, I close my eyes to pray, and before sleeping, I read a chapter of the Bible. My uncontrollable laughter gets me in trouble, but my constant smile is rumored to be contagious. It’s a lot to take in, but don’t worry-you’ll get a better (more coherent…or not) idea of me soon.

Hi guys! I like to eat steak and play the ukelele really badly. I was born in London and am forever mad at myself for not developing an accent before I left. I’m planning on studying Psychology at Harvard next year and I have a dream of one day conquering the world through happiness and hugs. My most traumatizing experience was when my goldfish, FREEDOM, jumped out of his bowl and off my balcony, plummeting to his death.

Seriously. Let’s be friends?

NETTA WANG Aragon High School San Mateo, CA netta.wang@gmail.com

AUSTIN WANG George Walton Comp High School Marietta, GA austinkwang@yahoo.com

Hey guys! I’m Jacob Warner- though no one actually calls me that. To my Track, Soccer, and Cross Country teams, I’m known affectionately as “Lil’ Warner” That’s L-I-L Comma to the TOP, Warner. I love life, and everyone in it. Piano, Choir, Guitar, Trumpet, Scouting, Service, Leadership, Math Team, AP Courses, parties, and the High School Life make every day an adventure, and I can’t wait to join in that adventure with you!

JACOB WARNER Lone Peak High School Alpine, UT vbwarner@msn.com

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My favorite sport is scrapbooking, but I also like to run cross-country. I go to sleep before ten and I am learning to quilt. When I am not pursuing the life of a grandmother, I serve as student class president, collect book for students in Africa, and produce movies that encourage literacy at a local elementary school. I am so excited to meet other young people with similar goals in leadership and service through the Coca-Cola Scholars program. In the fall, I will be attending the University of Wisconsin. I intend to earn a degree in business administration, but I also have interests in economics, political science, and math. One way or another, I know I will find ways to make a difference.

DEENA WHITWAM Hudson Senior High School Houlton, WI deenayouthleader@gmail.com

Hello Scholars! I am completely obsessed with everything that has to do with water and conduct water research with samples originating from Ganges River deltaic aquifers in Bangladesh. Aside from my research, I love participating in swimming, diving, debate, forensics, Science Olympiad, and lacrosse. I aspire to come up with new microbial water treatment techniques and hope to become a geobiologist in the future. I consider myself a pretty adventurous and outgoing person and I get myself into all kinds of fun situations.

I love to travel, try exotic foods and cook in my lack of free time. If you want to find me, I usually wear bow ties or loud pants because both are awesome!

I am a painter, a dancer, a singer, a gymnast, a writer, a designer, and a chef; I hate sleeping, eating, having fun, and all sorts of other things... or so I would say - if we lived in a world of opposites. Come and get to know me so I can give you a real introduction of who I am, what I do, and what I love!

ERIC XIONG Paul Laurence Dunbar High School Lexington, KY emxiong123@gmail.com

COOPER YERBY Olathe North High School Overland Park, KS cyerbz@aol.com

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Hey everyone! I go by Rainbow, and I am an author, scientist, and a dreamer. I love to jam to Taylor Swift while I dance around doing research or listen to OneRepublic while I work on my novels and my businesses on Etsy. In school, as the ASB President, I dictate (just kidding!) a lot of students, providing service and leadership to the community as best as I can. (How else am I supposed to use my power as the Supreme Leader?) Finally, I am just so excited to be involved in this community and has the opportunity to meet you all! It is such an honor to be with you--after all, there is no one else I would rather share a Coke with in the world!

It is an honor to be part of such an intelligent, motivated group of individuals from all over the country! I am so excited meet the 2015 Coca-Cola Scholars. A bit about me, I’m interested in science, so I have conducted three different research projects in high school. I love music, so I have been playing the clarinet as the Concertmaster and 1st clarinet of my school’s Wind Ensemble. I’m passionate about service, and I serve as the president of California’s first-ever Student Service Foundation. I’m also a strong proponent of youth empowerment, and I’m so inspired by reading about you guys.

Chances we have something in common.

Reach out to me - I can’t wait to talk to all of you!

JI WHAN YOON Oxford Academy Cypress, CA kevinjyoon96@yahoo.com

LAAN YEUNG West Lafayette Jr-Sr High School West Lafayette, IN laan.yeung@gmail.com

Well hey there! Before you ask, yes, I am just normally this happy most of the time. I love corny jokes, puns and laughing (at myself and with others)! Being spontaneous, randomly dancing and singing, trolling people, and living large are my forte; always down to try new things. I am an avid food lover, especially when it’s paired with talking about life and sharing stories with others. I would love to travel more--being in Germany this summer made me realize how greatly I value other cultures. I’ve been given so much in my life, and I love giving back--I’m so unbelievably thankful for my family and opportunities like these. I can’t wait to meet and be inspired by everyone here :)

CATHERINE ZHANG North Allegheny Senior High School Wexford, PA clzhang67@gmail.com

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I’m a SoCal boy, raised in the glorious sunshine, smog and devastating winters of LA. I love sports. I play tennis, and am a fan of my hometown Lakers and Angels, along with the Pittsburgh Steelers, FC Barcelona, and Rafael Nadal. I’m passionate about science. Science Olympiad and research internships have been a big part of me in the past few years. I also really love writing, and have been on my school newspaper for the past 4 years. I’m undecided about what I want to study right now, but I hope to combine my interests and work at the intersection of health, journalism, and education advocacy.

Most importantly, I lowkey wish to be a writer for SNL and highkey wish to be a better singer.

TED ZHU Walnut High School Dianmond Bar, CA tedzhu10@gmail.com

Mic check, one-two, one two. My name’s Ayyan- how do you do? I’m a wannabe rapper, yes that’s true. My rhyme scheme is wack, it’s a little bid crude. But I promise, I’m a really chill dude.

From the grandest ‘boro of Middle Tennessee, a polyglot in progress, a lover of places remote and worlds untouched, and up-and-coming superhero, Michael Zietz!

I dream of climbing on rocks, swimming in water, and flying over a mix of the two.

I speak German at home and my favorite food is Pfefferrahmschnitzel. When I’m not thinking about my dream job as a Donaudampfschiffahrtsgesellschaftskapitän, I enjoy casual sports with friends and outdoor adventures of the rugged variety.

I am a self-made thousandaire and connoisseur of fine puzzles. On a more serious note, I think supporting veterans is really important and I hope to help more with the next Honor Flight I attend.

MICHAEL ZIETZ Oakland High School Murfreesboro, TN emily.zietz@gmail.com

AYYAN ZUBAIR East Meadow High School East Meadow, NY azoobear@gmail.com

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ARIZONA Shrey Gupta Alex Stoken CALIFORNIA Shruti Aggarwal Benjamin Beltran Karen Malacon Abhishek Mangla Guy McEleney Grace O’Brien Joseph Orosco Oliver Piltch Marc Robert Wong O’Brian Santos Kathleen Schwind Lisa Sobajian Netta Wang Ji Whan Yoon Ted Zhu COLORADO Michael Anthony Madelyn Bollig Daniel Kwon Zaria Noble Sydney Oswald Suraj Renganathan CONNETICUT Jeffrey Noonan DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA Sydney Kamen FLORIDA Leila Abdelrahman Jude Alawa Esha Bansal Kimberly Foreiter Stephanie Levine Lauren Maunus Shelbi McCall Belen Mella Daniela Michanie

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Cindy Rajkumar Samuel Vilchez GEORGIA Amadou Bah Kawther Berhanu Paul Serrato Aditya Sood Austin Wang HAWAII Sarah Jenkins IDAHO Samuel Cahoon Wilson Guo Kathryn Simonds ILLINOIS Sabrina Aponte Siqi Liu Graham Novak Janki Patel Anika Rangianani Devyn Rigsby Bushra Shahid INDIANA Justin Garrard Joseph Hurlocker Anika Nishat Sarah Rominger Shanze Tahir Erin Thomas Laan Yeung IOWA Rachel Kim Macy Marek Taylor Wagner KANSAS Clara Ma Matthew Parodi Cooper Yerby

KENTUCKY Jiningnan Chen Ellen Kendall Mark Payton Eric Xiong MAINE Jared Michaud MARYLAND Jack Andraka Athena Kan Meena Sengottuvelu

NEW YORK Erika Cabrera Mitashee Das Raina Kadavil Zachary Marcone Akshay Ramaswamy Benjamin Schafer Ayyan Zubair

NORTH CAROLINA Victor Agbafe Emily Ashkin Ariel Kantor Madison Maloney MASSACHUSETTS Casey Sokolovic Matthew Cappucci Edith Otabil OHIO Matthew Salit Lilly Makee Nikhil Thakkar Blake Miller Ja’Laquan Mitchell MICHIGAN Jacqueline Roman Curtis Hsu Haylie Schmoll Emma Shibley MINNESOTA Gavin Backer OKLAHOMA Janice Guallpa Sydney Creager Gloria Tso MISSOURI Amanda Upton Jackson Roberts James Sykes OREGON Meredith Waites Valerie Ding Anabel Moreno-Mendez NEVADA Naily Nevarez Ayleen Perry PENNSYLVANIA NEW HAMPSHIRE Kevin Biju Samarth Desai Catherine Lucchi Drew Myers NEW JERSEY Jessica Pasquarello Austin Verissimo Martin Schneider Dominic Scicchitano NEW MEXICO Sydney Sherman Esteban Abeyta Courtney Thurston Catherine Zhang

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TENNESSEE Bethany Kirkpatrick Anita Norman Anna Raheem Anne Raheem Michael Zietz TEXAS Perry Alagappan Janelle Chavez Ria Chhabra Ashton Duke Jocelyn Hernandez Sharon Li Isaiah Murray Patricia Rodarte Samantha Smith Hunter Snowden Ilanna Villagran UTAH Bovey Rao Jacob Warner VIRGINIA Sreya Atluri Wyatt Booth Shane Hulse John Lohmann Ahmad Shawwal WASHINGTON Michael Bervell Timothy Lann Alka Pai Aneesh Pappu Reesab Pathak WISCONSIN Rachel Ley Deena Whitwam

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where do we go from here?

When you leave on Sunday, you may feel that you’ve come to the end of a very exciting adventure. But it is only the start of a very exciting journey.

KEEP UP WITH US! “Like” the Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation Facebook Page Join our official “Coca-Cola Scholars Alumni Group” on Facebook Join our Alumni Coca-Cola Scholars LinkedIn group for jobs/internships Follow us on Twitter @cokescholars Follow us on Instagram @cokescholars

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DATES TO REMEMBER: APRIL 2015 If you haven’t already, contact your local bottler immediately after Scholars Weekend JULY 2, 2015 School selection letter must be returned to us for processing AUGUST 2015 Fall quarter/semester checks to be mailed DECEMBER 2015 Spring semester checks to be mailed JULY 2016 Scholar annual reports, official transcripts, school changes and deferral forms to LaQuanda Prince for next year’s scholarship payment

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Autographs:

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