ASMS Senior Becomes Only 2021 Cooke Scholar in Alabama

Alabama School of Mathematics and Science (ASMS) senior Anna Peeples from Baldwin County has been named a 2021 Cooke College Scholar and is the only recipient from Alabama. The Jack Kent Cooke Foundation announced that 61 graduating high school seniors will receive the Cooke College Scholarship out of a pool of 5,800 applicants. The Cooke Foundation selected Scholars based on their academic ability, persistence, leadership, and financial need.

As a Cooke College Scholar, Anna will receive up to $40,000 annually to cover costs associated with undergraduate education along with ongoing educational advising from Foundation staff and access to a network of active Scholars and Alumni. She will also receive opportunities for internships, study abroad, and access to graduate school funding. In the fall, Anna plans to attend Swarthmore College in Swarthmore, Pennsylvania where she will study public health policy.

“This scholarship will help me pursue higher education without the fear of the financial burden that comes with college. I am looking forward to the emotional and academic support the foundation offers their scholars to help them excel,” says Anna.

During her time at ASMS, Anna co-founded a youth advocate risk prevention and education group for high school students under AIDS Alabama South (named TARP), conducted research and authored an article on the current sex education laws in Alabama, served as a National Youth HIV/AIDS Awareness Day Ambassador, completed an internship as a Teen Advocate for Sexual Health, and served as president of the Allies Club at ASMS.

“Anna has been a committed advocate and scholar throughout her time at ASMS. She has consistently embraced opportunities to learn, educate, raise awareness, and equip others. We are proud to see that the Cooke Foundation has recognized Anna’s excellence and dedication by investing in her very bright future,” says Dr. John Hoyle, President of ASMS.