Forsyth Descendants Scholarship and Opportunities in Atlanta, GA

The Forsyth Descendants Scholarship is currently accepting applications for the 2026–2027 academic year, offering up to $10,000 annually to students who can trace their lineage to Black families forcibly expelled from Forsyth County, Georgia, in 1912.

 

In 1912, over 1,000 Black residents were violently driven from Forsyth County following the death of a white woman, leading to a swift and brutal expulsion. This dark chapter left families displaced, their homes and livelihoods abandoned.

 

Applicants must provide proof of direct descent from those affected families, which can include family tree diagrams, birth certificates, or census records. A genealogist is available to assist in confirming lineage using the 1910 Census.

 

Additional requirements include a minimum 2.5 GPA, proof of acceptance to an accredited college or university, and essays detailing the family's connection to Forsyth County, the applicant's chosen career path, and available support systems. Financial need documentation is also necessary.

 

Applications are open from January 1 to April 1, 2026, with awards announced by June 15, 2026. Funds will be disbursed directly to the educational institution by July 15, 2026, covering tuition, books, fees, and room and board managed by the university.

 

For more information or assistance with the application process, prospective applicants are encouraged to reach out to the scholarship committee.