Spread the Word: Help Local High School Seniors Through the Julian & Jan Hester Scholarship

Applications are now open for the 2026 Julian & Jan Hester Memorial Scholarship — a meaningful opportunity for your bank to support local students while promoting community banking.

Named for former community banker Julian Hester and his daughter Jan Hester, the scholarship honors their legacy of leadership, service, and dedication to strengthening communities. Jan was a senior at the University of Georgia at the time of her passing, and this program continues the Hester family’s commitment to investing in future generations.

Each year, the Community Bankers Association of Georgia awards four $1,000 scholarships to Georgia high school seniors entering a Georgia college, university, or technical institute. Students must be sponsored by a community bank and complete an application including an essay on community banking, leadership record, recommendations, and transcripts.

Key application dates:

• Due to bank: April 3, 2026
• Due to CBA: April 10, 2026

Encourage your local high schools to share the opportunity, post it on your social channels, and invite your customers to participate. Learn more.