For many students across Kentucky, getting accepted into the Kentucky Governor’s Scholars Program (GSP) , is more than just an academic achievement, but a reward for all their hard work and efforts throughout high school. GSP is one of a few Governors programs that strive to enhance Kentucky’s next generation. Each summer, the program brings together a group of dedicated rising seniors from across the state for a unique experience focused on learning, collaboration, and personal growth.
This year, 12 Atherton students earned a place in the highly competitive program. They are set to attend Morehead State, Murray State, and Centre College for the duration of five weeks. While there, students will work with instructors in certain focus areas that include subjects such as creative writing, astronomy, philosophy and more. Participants were selected through a rigorous application process that considers academic performance, extracurricular involvement, community service, recommendations, and leadership potential.
This is an exciting opportunity for all students accepted into the program. Charles Schadt (11) and Zaylie Barber (11) are both excited to bond with different people with different backgrounds and experiences from all around the state.
“I can’t wait to learn more about Kentucky, and connect with all the motivated people in Kentucky,” said Barber who had three older brothers attend the Governor’s Scholar Program. “My siblings attending GSP was definitely a leading factor in my drive to participate. I know my time at GSP will be vastly different than theirs, but it makes me more excited to experience it. Also my parents can now say they went 4 for 4 on GSP!”
For many students, receiving their acceptance felt surreal. Delaney Payton can’t wait for her time at GSP.
“I’m super excited and I’m very proud because I put a lot of hard work into the application and I’ve been really excited to see if I got in,” Payton said.
As accepted students prepare for the summer, we are proud to see these amazing students excel. Earning a spot in the Kentucky Governor’s Scholars Program is not simply an honor to list on a resume, it is an opportunity to represent the best of young talent in Kentucky.
Congratulations to these Atherton juniors who were accepted into GSP: Zaylie Barber, Siobhan Bell, Bryn Billingsley, Julia Keeney, Forrest McLaren, Almir Memic, Erika Nguyen, Delaney Payton, Charles Schadt, Helena Smith-Pohl, Blue Snowden, and Braxton Weatherly.