Arete Scholars: 15 Years of Impact. A Lifetime of Opportunity.

Fifteen years ago, a vision took hold, rooted in a single ancient Greek word: arete. The word means excellence in action. It carries a promise that every child can become the person they were meant to be, using their gifts in a life lived with purpose. From the beginning, that word became our guide. Arete Scholars was created to help children from underserved communities discover their unique talents and pursue excellence through opportunity.

In 2010, that vision became reality when the first K-12 scholarships were awarded. What began with those first 262 students has grown into a movement that has transformed thousands of lives. Since 2010, nearly 25,000 scholarships, totaling more than $100 million, have opened doors to opportunity for children across Georgia and Louisiana.

Behind those numbers are remarkable outcomes: Arete scholars have consistently achieved a 100% high school graduation rate, and 74% have gone on to college, compared to just 51% of their low-income peers. Math and reading test scores are up, and Arete parents rate their satisfaction with academic progress at 100% across our national surveys.

Carlethia, our very first Arete scholar, in her senior year at Savannah Christian Prep, circa 2015.

These numbers are powerful, but our impact is not only in the statistics. It is in the parents who dare to dream big because their children now have a path to succeed. It is in the children who walk the halls of schools where they are safe and thriving. It is in the family that hears a young voice say, "I want to be a computer scientist," and begins to prepare for that future.

Year after year, Arete scholars have shown us what is possible when opportunity is given. Some discover the confidence to dream bigger, some find their stride in new academic challenges, and some simply find joy in learning again. Every story is unique, yet all are reminders that potential often waits quietly for someone to believe in it.

Now, as we begin the 2025-26 school year, Arete will reach its largest milestone yet: 3,550 scholarships worth $15.5 million. Each scholarship represents a child walking into a classroom that will nurture their talents and challenge them to reach higher. Each represents a family that feels hope, and a school that is strengthened by welcoming an eager student into its community. This record year is not just about growth. It is about the impact that generosity, vision, and faith can have when they come together.

The Arete Scholars team presenting Chirstofort with his "2025 Graduate of the Year" prize.

This 15-year journey belongs to everyone who has stood with us. Supporters, teachers, school leaders, and parents have all played a vital role in helping children step into their potential. Together, we have shown that gifts are not meant to lie dormant; they are meant to be expressed.

As we celebrate 15 years of Arete Scholars, our hearts are full of gratitude. Gratitude for the families who trust us, for the schools that partner with us, and for the supporters whose generosity makes this mission possible. Above all, gratitude for the children who remind us each day why this work matters. The last 15 years have proven the power of opening doors to opportunity. The next 15 will prove how far those open doors can carry us.