Fountain City Classic Invests in Education, Opportunity and the Future of Students

Annual football tradition continues to invest in students' futures, awarding $33,000 in scholarships to 29 students while expanding opportunities for financial assistance

For more than three decades, the Fountain City Classic has brought together alumni, students and supporters of Albany State University and Fort Valley State University for one of the region's most celebrated historically Black college and university football rivalries.

But beyond the excitement of the game, the marching bands, the tailgating and the longstanding traditions, the Fountain City Classic has embraced a mission that extends far beyond the football field: investing in the educational dreams of the next generation.

Earlier this year, the Fountain City Classic awarded a combined $33,000 in scholarships to 29 deserving students, reinforcing its commitment to academic excellence, educational opportunity and community empowerment.

For many recipients, the scholarships represent more than financial assistance. They provide encouragement, relieve financial pressures on families and serve as a reminder that their communities believe in their potential.

Building on its scholarship program, the Fountain City Classic is expanding its commitment to education through a new initiative designed to assist college students who encounter unexpected financial barriers on their journey toward graduation.

The initiative recognizes that while scholarships can help students begin their college education, unforeseen expenses and financial hardships can threaten their ability to complete it.

By addressing those challenges, the organization hopes to help more students remain enrolled, continue their studies and ultimately earn their degrees.

The expanded effort reflects a broader understanding of student success — one that recognizes the importance of providing support not only when students enter college but also throughout their educational journey.

Scholarship Applications Open Nov. 20

The Fountain City Classic Community Scholarship program will begin accepting applications Nov. 20 from eligible high school seniors who plan to enroll in college in fall 2027.

The scholarship is open to graduating seniors who reside within a 100-mile radius of Columbus and intend to attend an accredited college or university in the continental United States.

Applications must be submitted by 11:59 p.m. Feb. 28, 2027.

The scholarship program is designed to encourage academic achievement while helping reduce the financial barriers that can prevent promising students from pursuing higher education.