Southwest Georgia Farm Credit Announces 2025 Scholarship Recipients
To help ensure a bright future for rural communities, as well as the agricultural industry, Southwest Georgia Farm Credit presents several scholarship opportunities each year.
Recipients of the 2025 Southwest Georgia Farm Credit scholarships include Gabriel Johnson of Camilla, Dawson Cottles of Bainbridge, Terrell Mathis of Albany, Makiya Ervin of Albany, and Dawson Worsley of Bainbridge.
“It’s an honor to recognize students who have worked hard and shown such strong potential,” says Paxton Poitevint, President and CEO of Southwest Georgia Farm Credit. “These scholarships reflect our belief in the power of education and community, and they continue to serve as a reminder of the incredible talent, dedication, and promise found in our local schools. Congratulations to this year’s recipients. We look forward to seeing the impact they’ll make in the years ahead.”
Gabriel Johnson
Gabriel Johnson is a senior at Westwood Schools and is the Duane Watson Scholarship Winner. This scholarship was created in honor of the late Duane Watson, a beloved Relationship Manager at Southwest Georgia Farm Credit, who measured the value of the life he lived by helping others. Johnson’s list of community and academic involvement runs long, having been a member and ambassador in 4-H, Y-Club President, National Honor Society Secretary, voted Most Likely to Succeed in his senior class, a member of his school’s tennis and shotgun teams, and more. “Gabriel demonstrates a level of responsibility and determination far beyond his years, always striving to reach his full potential in every endeavor. His passion for learning and commitment to making a positive impact in his community highlight his dedication to personal and academic growth,” said Candace Seabolt, Former Mitchell County 4-H Agent. Gabriel will be attending the University of Georgia to pursue a double major in Finance and Agribusiness.
Makiya Ervin
Makiya Ervin is a senior at Westover Comprehensive High School and is the HBCU Scholarship winner. Ervin has been involved in activities in and out of the classroom, including being a member of National Beta Club, WSH Cheerleader, and full-time dual enrollment student at Albany Technical College (ATC), all while being employed, volunteering her time to multiple community movements, and even completing summer internships with Prestige Pediatric and Englewood Health Systems. During her dual enrollment at ATC, Ervin graduated with a Certified Nursing Assistant certificate. “Makiya has taken on various roles both inside and outside of the classroom, consistently displaying a high level of maturity and responsibility,” said Dr. Tonya Burns, ESP Department Support Specialist for Dougherty County School System. “She is compassionate, empathetic, and driven by a deep desire to help others.” Makiya will be attending Fort Valley State University where she will pursue Chemistry and Biology.
Dawson Cottles
Dawson Cottles is a senior at Bainbridge High School and is one of two winners for the Farm Credit Scholarship. Cottles is very involved within his high school’s clubs and sports teams such as FFA, National Honor Society, Captain of the BHS Varsity Golf Team, BHS Varsity Swim Team, President of Key Club, and recognized as a BHS Golden Guide. “In every endeavor, Dawson has exemplified the qualities of responsibility, discipline, and initiative. He is not only a strong student but also a compassionate leader who inspires those around him to strive for excellence,” said Keith Lyle, Registered Principal at Brannen & Lyle Investment Company. Dawson will be attending Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College to pursue Forestry.
Terrell Mathis
Terrell Mathis is a senior at Mitchell County High School and is one of two winners for the Farm Credit Scholarship. Mathis is a shining star in his high school’s sports teams—the Varsity Basketball Team, Captain of the Track & Field Team, Albany Ruff Riders (USA Track & Field)—racking up a collection of awards and recognitions for not only his athleticism but also his academic achievements, being a part of National Junior Beta Club and The National Society of High School Scholars. He is also involved in the community as a volunteer at both Gloria’s Pantry and Fannie McIntyre #136, Order of the Eastern Star. “Terrell has consistently demonstrated a remarkable maturity and responsibility that distinguishes him from his peers. Whether tasked with significant responsibilities or smaller duties, he approaches every assignment diligently and completes it to the highest standard,” said Britney Sessions, Worthy Matron of Fannie McIntyre #136, Order of the Eastern Star. Terrell will be attending Georgia Southern University to pursue Computer Engineering.
Dawson Worsley
Dawson Worsley is a senior at Grace Christian Academy and is the Technical Vocational Scholarship winner. Worsley has been involved in multiple sports teams, community services, and academic programs throughout his high school career, including being a part of the cross country, basketball, tennis, soccer, and football teams; volunteering for Salvation Army, food drives, and Campus Cleanup; and being a member of National Honor Society. “Dawson has mastered the challenge of staying involved in his community and extracurriculars without sacrificing his academic performance. This kind of balance is rare in students of his age, and I believe it speaks to his maturity and strong work ethic,” said Kim Burrell, Math Teacher at Grace Christian Academy. Dawson will be attending Southern Regional Technical College to pursue Electrical Systems Technology.
Southwest Georgia Farm Credit is a member-owned cooperative that provides reliable and innovative financial solutions to farmers, ranchers, agribusinesses, and related industries. As part of the nationwide Farm Credit System, Southwest Georgia Farm Credit’s mission is to support the growth and sustainability of agriculture in the region, offering a wide range of financial services, including loans, leases, and insurance. Southwest Georgia serves 21 counties in Georgia.