Each year the University of Georgia in conjunction with the State Department of Education recognize Georgia Certificate of Merit Scholars across the state of Georgia in recognition of outstanding scholastic achievement throughout the first three years of high school. To qualify for this prestigious award, students must rank in the top five percent of their junior class and be enrolled in college preparatory curriculum. Students nominated for this honor are, from left, sitting: Shenice Thompson and Whitley Clark; and standing: Charles (C.J.) Elmore, La’deshia Simpkins and Robert Boone. (Photo contributed)