2016 Valedictorian Reception

ATLANTA – Almost 400 Georgia high school valedictorians and their families visited the Governor’s Mansion on June 3 and 4, 2016 for the 23rd annual Governor’s Valedictorian Reception.

Governor Nathan Deal and First Lady Sandra Deal hosted the annual reception at the Governor’s Mansion to celebrate Georgia high school valedictorians and their families. First hosted by Governor Zell Miller in 1993, the reception is co-sponsored by the Georgia Student Finance Commission (GSFC) and the Governor’s Office.

In Governor Deal’s address to the valedictorians, he stated, “Through your talent and hard work, you have earned the right to be called Georgia’s best and brightest. Your national gifts and work ethic will play a crucial role in the future prosperity of this state. Take pride in your accomplishments, keep up the good work and seek out ways to use your abilities to benefit your community and this state.”

Because of the large number of students invited, the Valedictorian Reception is divided into three sessions. Students from Metro Atlanta schools are recognized on Friday evening, students from North Georgia are recognized on Saturday morning and students from South Georgia attend on Saturday afternoon.

In addition to the valedictorians and their guests, the annual reception is attended by board members of the University System of Georgia (USG) Board of Regents, the Technical College System of Georgia (TCSG) Board of Directors, the Georgia Student Finance Commission Board of Commissioners and the State of Georgia Board of Education.

Valedictorians and their guests also enjoyed remarks from First Lady Sandra Deal, USG Chancellor Hank Huckaby, TCSG Commissioner Gretchen Corbin, GSFC President Tricia Chastain and State School Superintendent Richard Woods.

“The Valedictorian Reception celebrates our highest achieving students and the families that helped them earn this special recognition. Spending time with such bright, motivated young people and hearing about their plans for college and beyond is truly inspiring,” said Tricia Chastain, President of the Georgia Student Finance Commission.

Valedictorians who attend a HOPE-eligible postsecondary institution in Georgia and meet all other eligibility requirements are eligible for the Zell Miller Scholarship, administered by GSFC, which covers full standard tuition. The Zell Miller Scholarship is a subset of Georgia’s lottery-funded HOPE Scholarship Program, a merit-based scholarship program available to Georgia residents who have demonstrated academic achievement.

“The HOPE Scholarship Program and the annual Valedictorian Reception demonstrate Georgia’s commitment to encourage and reward academic excellence,” stated Chastain.

View the event's photo gallery.