A scholarship from Sallas Mahone Elementary School is helping one member of the VHS Class of 2026 begin his next chapter more than 4,000 miles from home.
How far can an investment in a Wildcat go?
For Jackson Sutherland, the journey has taken him from Valdosta City Schools classrooms to the University of Exeter in England, where he has begun pursuing a degree in Archaeology.
Jackson, a member of the Valdosta High School Class of 2026, received the Sallas Mahone Elementary School Scholarship before graduation.
Now, as Jackson settles into university life thousands of miles from home, his mom, Michelle Sutherland, is reflecting on the people who helped him reach this point.
“Thank you to everyone at Valdosta City Schools who supported Jackson from kindergarten through graduation. I never felt like he was just a number, and I am so grateful to everyone who contributed to helping him achieve his goals.
Receiving the Sallas Mahone Elementary School Scholarship was another reminder that his VCS family continued to BelieVe in him as he prepared for his next chapter.
Today, Jackson is beginning his degree in Archaeology at the University of Exeter in England. We are incredibly grateful to everyone who helped him get there.”
From a Little Wildcat to His Next Big Adventure
Among the photos Michelle shared is one that captures just how long Jackson has been part of the Wildcat family.
In it, a much younger Jackson stands at the fence at a Wildcat football game, dressed in black and gold with a Wildcat paw proudly displayed on his shirt.
Fast forward to 2026, and Jackson is standing outside his new university residence in Exeter, England.
Between those two photos are years of classrooms, teachers, experiences, encouragement and opportunities throughout Valdosta City Schools.
His scholarship represents one more piece of that journey.
During the 2025-26 school year, the VCS Foundation distributed or facilitated more than $43,500 in scholarships, including 46 scholarships totaling $33,500 for graduating seniors from Valdosta High School and Valdosta Early College Academy.
Those scholarships are made possible through the generosity of schools, organizations, businesses, families, individuals and supporters who choose to invest in the future of VCS students.
We Never Know How Far an Investment Might Go
Throughout the BelieVe. GiVe. NeVer Quit. Employee Giving Campaign, the VCS Foundation has shared stories showing what happens when people choose to invest in students, educators and opportunities.
Jackson's story is another reminder that the impact of that investment doesn't necessarily end at graduation.
Sometimes it follows a Wildcat to college.
Sometimes it helps open the door to an opportunity.
And sometimes, it travels all the way across the Atlantic.
VCS employees can participate in the 2026-27 campaign through September 30.
💛 Monthly Payroll Deduction: Help us reach 200 monthly donors
💛 One-Time Gift: Make a one-time gift
Employees who prefer a traditional paper donation form may request one through the VCS Foundation.
From kindergarten in Valdosta to university in England, we never really know how far an investment in a Wildcat might go.
Because every opportunity begins with someone who BelieVed.
BelieVe. GiVe. NeVer Quit.