One of Clayton State’s most globally recognized donors recently re-expressed their commitment to academic excellence with a significant gift for the university’s student body.

The Coca-Cola Foundation, Inc. recently awarded Clayton State University with a generous grant of $1,000,000, which will be devoted solely to the education of first-generation students at the institution.

The Coca-Cola’s Foundation’s latest financial gift is also its largest ever given to Clayton State University and will annually serve 50 students pursuing various academic disciplines over the next four years.

Clayton State University’s Vice President of Advancement and External Relations Montrese Adger Fuller said the $1,000,000 gift has been allocated to provide financial support for student scholarship recipients over the next four years.

“This grant provides tremendous support to first-generation students who are pursuing their education here at Clayton State University,” Fuller said. “The gift is transformational and comes at a perfect time. We’re really focusing on social mobility here at Clayton State and this support will impact students and their families for generations to come. 

Like Fuller, Clayton State University President Dr. Georj Lewis was astounded by The Coca-Cola Foundation’s generosity and believes their gift to the institution will truly make a difference in the lives of those it touches in the coming years. 

“I’m just thankful for our relationship with The Coca-Cola Foundation,” Lewis said. “To provide such resources for first-generation students, the impact it will have on them through their education will undoubtedly be lifelong. It truly is difference-making support.”