Mercer University School of Medicine announces 2024 Nathan Deal Scholars
Published 2:19 pm Friday, November 1, 2024
- Submitted photo: The 2024 scholars were honored during the annual Nathan Deal Scholars Luncheon, in the presence of School of Medicine Dean Dr. Jean Sumner, former Georgia Gov. Nathan Deal and Mercer President William D. Underwood.
MACON — Mercer University School of Medicine recently recognized 10 new Nathan Deal Scholars for the 2024-25 academic year, including Bryer Touchton of Valdosta.
These scholars, selected based on their character, leadership qualities, community involvement, and likelihood of serving in rural, underserved Georgia, will receive 85%-100% of tuition for up to four academic years.
The Nathan Deal Scholarship, funded by a one-time appropriation of $35 million from the state of Georgia, aims to prepare over 100 doctors who will serve the 120 rural-designated counties of Georgia. Since its inception in 2017, over $11 million in scholarships have been awarded.
“The Nathan Deal Scholarship enables and supports students who want to return to rural Georgia communities to become outstanding physicians. These scholars represent the highest commitment to providing excellent health care to rural Georgians,” said Jean R. Sumner, M.D., dean of MUSM.
This year’s class of Nathan Deal Scholars are:
- Alexander Gomez of Cairo
- Wes Livingston of Alma
- Jayln Massey of Cave Spring
- Chloe Pate of Fitzgerald
- Mahi Patel of Sparta
- Caroline Scarborough of Eastman
- Lindsey Tatum of Clarksville
- Bryer Touchton of Valdosta
- Gracie White of Moultrie
- Sam Wu of Forsyth
