Two Habersham Central High School students are among 154 seniors statewide to be named Georgia Scholars this year. Hayden Hulsey and Emily Irvin are being recognized for their academic excellence and community contributions.
Georgia State School Superintendent Richard Woods extended his congratulations to this year’s Scholars.
“These 154 Class of 2023 seniors worked hard, became leaders in their schools and communities, and took advantage of the opportunities offered in Georgia public schools. I wish them continued success as they embark on their futures, including plans for after high school and beyond. I know they’ll continue to make us all proud,” said Woods.
Full list 2023 Georgia Scholars
Habersham’s Georgia Scholars
Hulsey is the son of Keith and Amy Hulsey of Clarkesville. At Habersham Central, he is a member of the AP Capstone Program and captain of the Varsity Soccer team. He is also a member of the Beta Club, Student Council, Mock Trial, and the Youth Habersham Chamber of Commerce Leadership Council. Hulsey is a “Camp K” counselor and a member of both First Baptist Gainesville and Level Grove Baptist Church.
“It is an honor to be chosen to be a Georgia Scholar because this award recognizes not only my work in the classroom but also my commitment to being an asset to my community,” Hulsey said.
Also enrolled in the AP Capstone Program at HCHS, Irvin is the daughter of James and Lori Irvin of Cornelia. She is the President of the Interact club, President of Mu Alpha Theta, a member of the Beta Club, Student Council, Mock Trial, and Academic Bowl. Irvin worked on the Northeast Georgia Operation Christmas Child team and was also a project leader for the initiative. She serves on the Youth Habersham Chamber of Commerce Leadership Council and is a vital contributor to the Providence Baptist Church youth group.
“I am proud to be one of the 154 chosen as a Georgia Scholar as I have worked hard to contribute to not only my school but my community during high school,” said Irvin.
“This well-earned designation comes as a result of hard work and extreme commitment to excellence by both Emily and Hayden,” said HCHS Principal Jonathan Stribling. “Habersham Central having two Georgia Scholars out of 154 statewide is a great complement to Emily and Hayden, their families, and the Habersham County School System.”
Strict criteria
According to the state department of education website, Georgia Scholars carry exemplary course loads during their four years of high school, have a cumulative Grade Point Average (GPA) of 3.75 in core courses, meet a minimum combined SAT score of 1360 or a composite ACT score of 31, successfully participate in interscholastic events at their schools and communities, and assume leadership roles in extracurricular activities sponsored by their schools.
“These criteria are set by state law and have no exceptions,” explains Habersham Central High School Dual Enrollment/College Planning Coordinator Dora Lucas.
Georgia Scholars receive special seals on their diplomas in recognition of their accomplishment.
