A Carrollton High School Class of 1987 graduate motivated by a desire to excel in finance and business was honored for his accomplishments by being named the 20th recipient of the Carrollton High School Distinguished Alumni Award, presented April 18 during the CHS 38th annual Academic Achievement Awards program at the Mabry Center for the Arts. 

Antoine Poythress’s humble beginnings in Carrollton and his remarkable career achievements stand as a testament to his dedication, resilience, and unwavering commitment to excellence. 

Poythress said he knew early on that he wanted to be a “businessman.”

“My grandfather was a small business owner and was self-employed for most of his life,” he said. “I wanted to get an education and a business background in an effort to help with my grandfather's business.”

After graduating from CHS, Poythress headed to Kentucky Wesleyan College, where he earned a degree in Accounting. 

“My biggest motivation to major in accounting was to become a CFO and lead companies' financial operations,” said Poythress. 

When reflecting on major milestones in his career, Poythress said passing his CPA exam just one year after college was his first significant milestone. The second milestone came when he achieved CPA licensure in the state of Texas. His third milestone was attaining the position of CFO at Washington County Medical Center, followed by a fourth milestone of becoming CEO at both Washington County Medical Center and Jenkins County Medical Center.

In his younger years, Poythress was nurtured by a loving family who instilled the values of education and hard work. His childhood memories revolve around the Carrollton community, where he said he made lifelong friendships and learned the importance of diversity and inclusivity.

“I had a very loving mother and grandparents,” said Poythress. “They stressed the value of education from an early age and the benefits of a great work ethic.”

Like many of his peers in Carrollton, Poythress said he participated in sports year-round with the Carrollton Recreation Department, which exposed him to people from different backgrounds.

“I made lifelong friendships with different individuals and families. Being around people of different races and economic backgrounds allowed me to develop interpersonal relationship skills to communicate with all people. “

Poythress acknowledged the profound influence of former CHS teachers such as Ms.Melba Leggett, Ms. Rita Gentry, and Ms. Carrie Dothard, who he said played pivotal roles in shaping his aspirations and confidence.

“I was lucky to have a few teachers during my years in Carrollton who gave me confidence that I could do anything I wanted to do,” he said.

Poythress has received many recognitions over the span of his career. Some of his noteworthy achievements include receiving accolades for his exemplary work in hospital administration and effecting positive change in rural healthcare.

When he was CEO of Washington County Regional Medical Center, the hospital was awarded the 2018-2019 Best Medium Size Hospital in the state of Georgia. He is also a dedicated Georgia Hospital Association Rural Hospital board member and GHA audit committee member. 

As just one of four African American CEOs in the state, Poythress said he has confronted many challenges as a minority in his field. 

“Being a minority has been a huge challenge,” he said. “I had to overcome prejudice and people's fears every time I entered a room.”

Yet, his determination has enabled him to break barriers and pave the way for future generations. 

Married for 21 years with a blended family, Poythress said he cherishes moments spent with loved ones and remains actively involved in sports, including tennis, golf, and weightlifting.

“I balance work and personal life with the help of my wife, Julia,” he said. “She keeps me focused on spending time with family and friends and helps create work-life balance with a schedule full of personal activities.”

Poythress’s legacy extends far beyond his professional accomplishments. He said he aspires to be remembered as a loving husband, father, and mentor who empowers others to reach their full potential. 

His dedication to developing future leaders and encouraging mentorship sets a strong example for generations.

“I want to leave behind a host of successful people whom I have mentored and my hope is that they will pay it forward by aspiring to help others,” said Poythress. 

Poythress joins an impressive list of distinguished alumni who have been recognized through this initiative. Launched in 2012,  the program to date has honored 16 other exceptional CHS graduates: Edith Foster, Class of 1922; Albert Jones and J. Stewart Martin, Class of 1930; J.Willis Hurst, Class of 1937; E.C. “Sonny” Bass, Class of 1938; Hollis Harris, Class of 1949; John H. Burson, Class of 1951; Richard M. Ingle, Class of 1964; D. Garvin Byrd, Class of 1969; Jane Crosson, Class of 1974; William Crosson, Class of 1976; Scott Deviney, Class of 1989; James C. Pope, Class of 1962; Shereta Williams, Class of 1992; Jim Borders, Class of 1979, Eric D. Cole, Class of 1994; and Mark Parkman, Class of 1983.  This slate includes the induction of two honorary alumni, W.W. Fitts, who was a founding member of the Carrollton Board of Education, and Tom Upchurch, former Carrollton City Schools superintendent and lifelong educator, who not only made a significant impact in education at home in Carrollton, but across the state of Georgia.

The Carrollton City Schools Education Foundation celebrated its 2024 scholarship awards at the third annual scholarship breakfast on April 16 at City Station. Students, parents, and donors gathered to recognize 39 students who received awards.

This year, thanks to the generosity of private donors, the foundation introduced two new scholarship opportunities and awarded more than $53,000.

"We are proud of the students who were recognized as the 2024 recipients of the scholarships,” said Kristen Gill, the foundation's executive director. “These seniors are selected through an application process by a committee consisting of board, community, and school faculty members. The scholarship program is one of our most celebrated each year, and these students have worked hard to reach this milestone. We wish them the best of luck and hope these awards will serve as a launching pad for continued success in college."

To read more about these scholarships and learn more about the CCS Education Foundation, please visit https://www.carrolltoncityschools.net/community/foundation/scholarships. 

The Akoye Winston Warrior Scholarship 

Carrollton High School senior Keshun Johnson was awarded the Akoye Winston Warrior Scholarship. The scholarship award was presented at the Carrollton City Schools Education Foundation scholarship breakfast on April 16 at City Station in Carrollton. Pictured with Keshun is Melina Douthit, president of the CCS Education Foundation. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Carrollton High School Alumni Scholarship

Carrollton High School seniors Drew Johnson and Edward Kenyon were semi-finalists and Kieran Kelly was the overall winner for the Carrollton High School Alumni Scholarship at the first Carrollton City Schools Education Foundation scholarship breakfast on April 16 at City Station in Carrollton. Pictured from left are Edward Kenyon, Drew Johnson, Kieran Kelly, and Susan Ingle, Class of 1966.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Ben Stallings Football Scholar Award

This year’s recipient is Jack Japour. Janis Stallings, Ben’s mother, presented the award at the CCS Education Foundation scholarship breakfast on April 16.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Bennett Reed Stedwell Memorial Scholarship 

This year’s recipient is Samantha Ayers. The scholarship award was presented at the CCS Education Foundation scholarship breakfast on April 16 at City Station in Carrollton. Pictured are CCS Education Foundation President Melina Douthit and Samantha Ayers.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Bryson-Caylor Family Scholarship

This year’s recipient is Regan Kelley. The scholarship award was presented at the CCS Education Foundation scholarship breakfast on April 16 at City Station in Carrollton.  Pictured from left are David Bryson, Samantha Ayers, Dr. Jewel Bryson, and Mark Byson.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Coach Charlie Grisham Memorial Scholarship

Carrollton High School seniors Bryce Hicks and Aubrey Dishman were awarded the Charlie Grisham Memorial Scholarship at the third annual CCS Education Foundation scholarship breakfast on April 16 at City Station in Carrollton. Pictured from left are Burt Grisham, Bryce Hicks, Aubrey Dishman, and Sherri Grisham Bruce.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Charles Richard Mehaffey Scholarship

This year’s recipient is CHS senior Eric Malmquist. The scholarship award was presented at the CCS Education Foundation scholarship breakfast on April 16 at City Station in Carrollton. Pictured are Melina Douthit, president of the CCS Education Foundation and Eric Malmquist.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Chase McDaniel “Chase the Victory” Memorial Scholarship 

This year’s recipients are Jack Riley (semi-finalist) and Emma Cook (overall winner). The scholarship award was presented at the CCS Education Foundation scholarship breakfast on April 16 at City Station in Carrollton. Pictured from left are Jack Riley, Kiki McDaniel, and Emma Cook.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Carrollton High School National Honor Society Scholarship

This year’s recipient is Zooey Bush. Pictured with Zooey is Michael Harvey, CHS teacher. 

The Clay Robinson Family Scholarship

The Clay Robinson Family Scholarship was established in 2021 by Carrollton native Clay Robinson. This year’s recipient is Joseph Ivey. The scholarship award was presented by Clay Robinson at the CCS Education Foundation scholarship breakfast on April 16 at City Station in Carrollton. Pictured with Joseph is Clay Robinson.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Don Hall Band Scholarship

Carrollton High School senior Connor Haley was awarded the Don Hall Band Scholarship at the CCS Education Foundation scholarship breakfast on April 16. Pictured from left are Don Hall, Connor Haley, and Dr. Chris Carr. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Dr. Jerry Robinson Scholarship

Carrollton High School senior Sarah Scholl was presented the Dr. Jerry Robinson Scholarship. Pictured with Sarah are Dr. and Mrs. Jerry Robinson. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Dubba Schulenburg Art Scholarship

Carrollton High School senior Caitline Boone was awarded the Dubba Schulenburg Art Scholarship. Pictured with Caitlin is Dubba’s son and Carrollton Board of Education member, Greg Schulenburg.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Officer Jason Rowell #208 Memorial Scholarship

Carrollton High School senior Jack Japour was presented the Officer Jason Rowell #208 Memorial Scholarship, which honors the life and legacy of Rowell. Pictured from left are Ava Rowell, Jack Japour, and Amy Rowell.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Mr. and Mrs. Joseph B. McGinnis Memorial Scholarship

Carrollton High School senior Robert Wilson was awarded the Joseph B. McGinnis Scholarship at the CCS Education Foundation scholarship breakfast on April 16 at City Station. Pictured with Robert are Joe and Glenn McGinnis.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The John Wesley Tanner, Jr. Memorial Scholarship

Carrollton High School senior Andrew Albertus was awarded the John Wesley Tanner Jr. Memorial Scholarship at the CCS Education Foundation scholarship breakfast on April 16 at City Station. Pictured with Andrew is Johnny Tanner.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Joshua Roy Mabry Memorial Scholarship

Carrollton High School seniors Nyera Gindrow received the Joshua Roy Mabry Memorial Scholarship, presented on April 16 at the CCS Education Foundation scholarship breakfast at City Station. Mabry’s family established the scholarship as a memorial tribute to the long-time Carrollton Board of Education member who died in November 2008. Pictured with Nyera are members of the Mabry family.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Kyle Liam Barry Scholarship

This year’s recipients are Robert Wilson and Kylie Briscoe. Pictured with Robert are Brian Hungerford, Jackie Marshall, and Glenn Barry. Kylie was unable to attend the event as she is in school at the University of Oklahoma. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Lisa Crawford Love Family Scholarship for the Performing Arts

Carrollton High School senior Lydia Baldizon is this year’s recipient of the Lisa Crawford Love Scholarship for the Performing Arts.The award was presented at the CCS Education Foundation scholarship breakfast on April 16 at City Station. Pictured with Lydia is Kristie Hayden, daughter-in-law of Lisa Crawford Love.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Mike Lankford Memorial Scholarship

This year’s recipient of the Mike Lankford Memorial Scholarship is Isela Zavalza. Pictured with Isela is Shirley Lankford.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The RaLin Memorial Scholarship 

Carrollton High School senior Angel Martinez Sanchez is this year’s scholarship recipient. The award was presented at the CCS Education Foundation scholarship breakfast on April 16 at City Station. Pictured with Angel is Andrew Stewart.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The “Live Like Josh” Scholarship

The first recipient of the "Liv Like Josh" Scholarship is Autumn Martin. The award was presented at the CCS Education Foundation scholarship breakfast on April 16 at City Station. Pictured with Autumn are Josh’s parents, PT and Karen Waldrep.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The RGP Memorial Scholarship

The RGP Memorial Scholarship was given to Ben Cleek at the CCS Education Foundation scholarship breakfast on April 16 at City Station. Pictured with Ben is CCS Education Foundation president, Melina Douthit.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Reico North Scholarship

Carrollton High School senior Steve Mazariegos was awarded the Reico North Scholarship at the  CCS Education Foundation scholarship breakfast on April 16 at City Station. Pictured with Steve are members of the North family — Tabitha North, Recia North, and Marcus Reese.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Ronnie Walton Memorial Scholarship

This year’s Ronnie Walton Memorial Scholarship recipient is Joshua Johnson. Joshua was presented the award at the CCS Education Foundation scholarship breakfast on April 16 at City Station. Pictured with Joshua are Walton’s wife, Carol, and their daughter, Beth.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Sheri Davis Memorial Scholarship

Gabriella Strzalkowski was awarded a Carrollton City Schools Education Foundation scholarship established in memory of Sheri Davis. Mrs. Davis’ husband, Dr. Steve Davis, presented the award at the CCS Education Foundation scholarship breakfast on April 16 at City Station. Pictured with Gabriella is Steve Davis.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Stanley Parkman/Times-Georgian Media Award

Carrollton High School senior Eden Long was awarded the Stanley Parkman/Times-Georgian Media Award at the CCS Education Foundation scholarship breakfast on April 16 at City Station. Pictured with Eden are Rachael Raney and Mike Herring.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Susan W. Gordy Spirit Award

This year’s Susan W. Gordy Spirit Award recipient is A’Jaiah Ward. Susan Gordy presented the award at the CCS Education Foundation scholarship breakfast on April 16 at City Station. Pictured with AJ is Susan Gordy.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Trojan Spirit & Leadership Scholarship

Carrollton High School senior Eli Pippins was awarded the Trojan Spirit & Leadership Scholarship at the CCS Education Foundation scholarship breakfast on April 16 at City Station. Pictured with Eli is Ben Garrett.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Whitley Morris Scholar-Athlete Award

Carrollton High School seniors Nour Nazim and Charli Colquitt were awarded the Whitley Morris Scholar-Athlete Award at the CCS Education Foundation scholarship breakfast on April 16 at City Station. Pictured with Nour and Charli is Paul Fitz-Simons, CHS athletic director.

The Trojan Memorial Scholarship Award

This scholarship was created in 2024 to honor the memory of all Trojan students and staff who have passed away while actively attending or working at Carrollton City Schools. This award celebrates their impact on our school community while preserving their legacies and the sense of unity, compassion, and excellence that their lives exemplified. This year the foundation honored the lives of Teresa Morgan, Greg Cobb, Justus Brewer, and Brandon Almon.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Trojan Memorial Scholarship - Teresa Morgan

Teresa Morgan, a cherished member of the Carrollton High School team, dedicated over thirty years to her role as the registrar. CHS senior Clara Pullen received this scholarship on April 16 at the CCS Education Foundation scholarship breakfast. Pictured with Clara are members of Mrs. Morgan’s family.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Trojan Memorial Scholarship - Greg Cobb

This scholarship honors the memory of Greg Cobb, a member of the school Nutrition team at Carrollton, where he dedicated five years of service. This scholarship celebrates his legacy of inspiring others to spread kindness and positivity in their own lives. CHS senior Ian Larson received this award at the CCS Education Foundation scholarship breakfast on April 16 at City Station. Pictured with Ian is Melina Douthit, CCS Education Foundation president.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Trojan Memorial Scholarship - Justus Brewer

This scholarship honors Justus Brewer's legacy of leadership and encouraging students to follow their passions with dedication. CHS senior Julian Redwine received this scholarship on April 16 at the CCS Education Foundation scholarship breakfast. Pictured with Julian are Scotty Brewer, Jada Brewer, and Jermaine Brewer.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Trojan Memorial Scholarship - Brandon Almon

This scholarship is in memory of Brandon Almon, a young student from Carrollton Elementary who passed away in June 2023.  CHS senior Allison Lowry received this scholarship on April 16 at the CCS Education Foundation scholarship breakfast. Pictured with Allison are members of Brandon’s family.

 

Nine Carrollton High School seniors, set to graduate in May, have been recognized as Georgia Scholars by the Georgia Department of Education. They are among an elite group of 177 students statewide. 

Carrollton High School had the largest number of qualifiers in the state. 

The state DOE identifies and honors high school seniors who have achieved excellence in school and community life through the Georgia Scholar program. High school seniors who exhibit excellence in all phases of school life, in community activities, and the home are eligible for Georgia Scholar recognition.

According to DOE guidelines, Georgia Scholars are students who have carried exemplary course loads during their four years of high school; who performed excellently in all courses; who successfully participated in interscholastic events at their schools and their communities; and who have assumed leadership roles in extracurricular activities sponsored by their schools. Each Georgia Scholar receives a seal for their diploma.

The Class of 2024 qualifiers are Madelynn Cook, Shawn Dong, Andrew Johnson, Edward Kenyon, Autumn Martin, Sophia Morales, Tyler Ou, Kai Remshagen, and Robert Wilson.

“We are incredibly proud to have the largest number of Georgia Scholars named by the Georgia Department of Education this year. This honor is a testament to the relentless dedication of our students and the invaluable guidance our counselors provide. Together, they have demonstrated outstanding commitment and excellence in our student’s academic and personal endeavors.” said Ian Lyle, CHS principal.

The program is coordinated by GaDOE’s Excellence Recognition Office and local coordinators in each public school system and private schools throughout the state.