The BankSouth Foundation is proud to announce the 2025 recipients of the BankSouth Citizenship Award and Scholarship, honoring three exceptional high school seniors who demonstrate integrity, compassion, and leadership in their schools and communities. This annual recognition supports the educational pursuits of students who exemplify moral courage, honesty, respect, and service.

Nominated by teachers and peers, the following students have been selected as this year’s recipients:

Jayla Turner, Greene County High School

Adeline Shuman, Nathanael Greene Academy

Mary Claire McCommons, Lake Oconee Academy

Each recipient received their award during their respective high school’s senior award ceremonies.

Jayla Turner, Valedictorian of Greene County High School’s Class of 2025, will attend the University of North Georgia to major in Business Administration. She served as DECA President, was active in Beta Club and UGA Leadership, and gained hands-on banking experience working as a part-time bank teller for two years. “I felt immense joy and appreciation when I was named the recipient of the BankSouth Foundation Scholarship,” said Turner. “It reassured me that I had made a lasting impact on the people I encountered during my time at Greene County High School.” Turner aspires to a future career in banking.

Adeline Shuman graduated early from Nathanael Greene Academy at age 16, completing both her junior and senior years within one calendar year. Originally set to study sonography, she is now pursuing her true passion in cosmetology and esthetics at Oconee Fall Line Technical College. “This scholarship will allow me to attend school full-time in the fall and fulfill my dreams without debt,” said Shuman. A hard-working student, she was active in Beta Club (Secretary), worked throughout high school, and earned several honors including Miss NGA, Homecoming Queen, and Rotary Student of the Month.

Mary Claire McCommons, a Lake Oconee Academy graduate, will attend the University of Georgia to pursue a degree in Scientific Illustration. “Receiving this scholarship reminded me that I’m not alone in this journey,” said McCommons. “To be nominated and voted for by my teachers and peers made it even more special.” An active leader and student, McCommons served as president of the National Art Honor Society and held roles in Beta Club, LOA Miracle, and the Student Government Association. She was also a Chick-fil-A Leadership Ambassador and a member of organizations such as Captain's Council, National Honor Society, Rho Kappa, Fellowship of Christian Athletes, and Youth Leadership Greene.

A standout multisport athlete, McCommons played varsity softball and basketball for four years, earning titles that include two Region Championships in softball and accolades such as 2024 Region Player of the Year, First Team All-Region (three times), and All-State Honorable Mention.

“We are honored to recognize these outstanding young leaders,” said Beth Thomas, BankSouth Foundation board member. “Their dedication to both academic achievement and community service truly reflects the values we aim to support through this award.”