Hunter Coy, a senior at Mountain Home High School, has been named a semifinalist in the 2027 Coca-Cola Scholars Program. Coy now advances to the next stage of the competitive selection process for the chance to become a Coca-Cola Scholar and receive a $20,000 college scholarship.
The Coca-Cola Scholars Program is the largest achievement-based scholarship initiative in the United States sponsored by a corporation. Since its inception 39 years ago, the program has awarded more than $93 million in scholarships to over 7,300 students nationwide, according to the Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation.
Jane Hale Paulsen, President of the Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation, highlighted the program's mission of empowering young leaders. “We believe that identifying these young leaders throughout the country and encouraging their passion for serving others not only empowers the students but also lifts up those around them,” Paulsen said. She also emphasized the Coca-Cola system’s broader commitment to giving back to the communities it serves.
To continue in the process, semifinalists, including Coy, are required to complete Phase 2 applications. This phase involves submitting essays, a recommendation, and academic transcripts. An independent selection committee will review the applications and, by early January, announce 250 Regional Finalists who will participate in online interviews. From that group, 150 students will be selected as Coca-Cola Scholars-select in late February.
These Coca-Cola Scholars-select will attend the Coca-Cola Scholars Weekend in Atlanta, Georgia, from April 15 to 18, 2027. During the event, they will be honored at the program's 39th annual banquet and take part in the Coca-Cola Scholars Leadership Development Institute, alongside previous program alumni.
As official Coca-Cola Scholars, the students will not only receive a $20,000 college scholarship but also gain access to a robust alumni network. This community provides long-term opportunities such as professional coaching for first-year scholars, leadership development programming, and periodic leadership summits to foster collaboration and positive impact worldwide.
Coy's selection highlights his academic achievements and commitment to leadership—both priorities for one of the most prestigious scholarship programs in the country. The final results are eagerly awaited as these young leaders continue through the program's rigorous selection process.