JACKSON, Tennessee — Jackson Christian is proud to announce that senior Tanishi Sorker has been named a Semifinalist for the highly competitive Coca-Cola Scholars Program, the nation’s largest corporate-sponsored, achievement-based scholarship.
Selected from tens of thousands of applicants across the country, Semifinalists represent an elite group of high-achieving students recognized for outstanding leadership, academic excellence, and dedication to service.
Tanishi is one of seven area students selected as a semifinalist. She joins Chandler Chambliss, Milan High School; Kalli Hall, Peabody High School; Luke Lawrence, Gleason High School; Ian Patterson, Scotts Hill High School; Ali Ridgeway, Henry County High School, and Jaslyn Young, Jackson Central-Merry Early College High School.
The Coca-Cola Scholars Program—funded jointly by Coca-Cola bottlers across the nation and The Coca-Cola Company—has awarded more than $90 million in scholarships to over 7,200 students since 1986. With the Class of 2026, the foundation continues its long-standing commitment to celebrating and empowering the next generation of community leaders and changemakers.
Tanishi is currently completing the program’s Phase 2 application, which includes essays, a transcript, and a recommendation. These materials will be evaluated by an independent selection committee, which will identify 250 Regional Finalists in early January. Regional Finalists will then participate in virtual interviews.
From that group, 150 students will be named Coke Scholars-select in late February and invited to attend Coca-Cola Scholars Weekend in Atlanta on April 23–26, 2026. This event includes the 38th annual Coca-Cola Scholars Banquet and the Coca-Cola Scholars Leadership Development Institute, facilitated by program alumni. After completing Scholars Weekend, they will be officially named Coca-Cola Scholars and awarded a $20,000 college scholarship.
In addition to financial support, Coca-Cola Scholars gain access to a vibrant, lifelong network of alumni who collaborate to make meaningful change in communities around the world. The program offers unique opportunities such as mentorship from alumni, professional development events, and a Leadership Summit every five years.
Jackson Christian congratulates Tanishi on this remarkable achievement and celebrates her dedication, leadership, and commitment to excellence.
(PHOTO: Tanishi Sorker, Jackson Christian)
