Thank You for Another Amazing CCEF Gala!

On the night of March 11th, 400 people joined the Cherokee County Educational Foundation for our 9th annual Celebration of Education Gala at the Northside Cherokee Conference Center. This event, sponsored by Manley, Spangler and Smith Architects, was the largest fundraiser in the history of CCEF, raising more than $200,000 to benefit both Classroom Impact Grants and a new initiative called Reach Georgia Scholars.

Reach Georgia Scholars

Gala attendees were greeted via video by Mark Smith, a CCSD administrator on special assignment to help introduce the program. The Reach Georgia program is the state's first needs-based mentorship and college scholarship program. Reach Georgia awards qualifying students up to $2,500 per academic year towards the cost of attendance at a HOPE eligible university or technical college, with the total lifetime award for Reach Scholars being $10,000

Eligible students include those who have demonstrated a financial need for the scholarship, maintain good attendance, a HOPE GPA of 2.5 or higher, a crime and drug-free life, and the support of a caring adult mentor or academic coach.

This year the Cherokee County School District welcomed its first group of Reach Georgia Scholars, which includes seven amazing students who have shown great strength and tenacity, and have continued to excel throughout the school year.

At the Gala

The CCEF Gala featured entertainers, such as up and coming recording artists Kurt Lee Wheeler and Ethan Senger, both Cherokee County graduates. The circus-themed dinner was served to the attendees by the 1885 Grill of Acworth, and Circus décor and performers were provided by O'Brien Productions of Woodstock. The event was celebrated with silent auctions, games, and an act performed by the Crescent Circus. NBC's The Voice-winner Bryce Leatherwood also auctioned an autographed guitar and music lessons provided by Donley's music.

The foundation recognized both Judge Jennifer Davis and Randy Gravley as 2023 Alumni of the Year recipients for their accomplishments professionally and personally devoted to Cherokee County.

About CCEF

Founded in 2012, CCEF strives to create inclusive and exciting opportunities for supporters of CCSD educators and students to get involved. This was the 9th year that we have held our annual Gala. CCEF has several upcoming events to look out for, including a wine tasting at Fermented, and a sporting Clays Tournament at Garland Mountain this summer. For up to date information and details visit our events page!