Celebrating Resilience: The Sources of Strength Peer Leader Scholarship

The Sources of Strength Peer Leader Scholarship honors students who have gone above and beyond to promote resilience, connection, and well-being within their schools. These student leaders embody the heart of the Sources of Strength program—fostering hope, help, and strength among their peers—and serve as role models for building healthier, more connected school communities.


Proceeds from our Miles for Mental Health Virtual 5k provides scholarship awards each worth $1,000 to three outstanding students across the Cobb County School District. Recipients will be graduating seniors who have dedicated themselves to the Sources of Strength Peer Leader program for at least two years and are ready to carry forward those lessons into their post-secondary education.


Who We Are:

Sources of Strength is a nationally recognized, evidence-based program focused on suicide prevention, mental health promotion, and building protective factors for students and adults. Rather than concentrating only on risks, Sources emphasizes resilience, connection, and belonging—empowering individuals with tools to seek help, support others, and build healthy coping strategies. Through peer leadership, training, and a strength-based approach, the program creates a culture of wellness that benefits entire school communities.


At its core, the Sources of Strength Scholarship reflects a shared belief: when we equip students with hope, help, and strength, we don’t just support them—we empower them to uplift others. This scholarship is not only an investment in education but also a celebration of student leaders who are shaping stronger, healthier communities for us all.


To learn more about this opportunity and to apply, click here


By Kiara Garcia May 15, 2026
Meet This Year's Recipient
By Kiara Garcia May 15, 2026
Meet This Year's Recipients
By Web Team May 4, 2026
Dr. Kathie Elliott devoted 33 years of dedicated service to the Cobb County School District, leaving a lasting impact on students, educators, and future leaders across the district. Her career began in the classroom as an elementary school teacher and evolved into school leadership, where she served as principal at Eastside Elementary, Varner Elementary, and Kennesaw Elementary. Along the way, Dr. Elliott also shared her expertise in Human Resources, supporting and strengthening the district from multiple perspectives. Even after retiring, Dr. Elliott’s passion for developing others never slowed. She continued to mentor and coach aspiring school leaders through Berry College and supervised student teachers through Kennesaw State University—ensuring that the next generation of educators was prepared, confident, and inspired. In honor of her remarkable legacy, the Dr. Kathie Elliott Scholarship was established to support current Cobb County School District employees who are continuing their educational journeys to advance professionally. This scholarship is designed to uplift those who are investing in their growth and expanding their impact within the district. Eligible applicants may be pursuing: A GED Paraprofessional certification Specialized credentials related to their current role Other educational pathways that enhance skills and career opportunities within CCSD Each scholarship award is $1,000 and may be applied toward tuition, certification fees, or other approved educational expenses. Applications are reviewed year-round, ensuring ongoing opportunities for professional development and advancement. By supporting this scholarship, you are helping to carry forward Dr. Elliott’s commitment to leadership, education, and lifelong learning. Click here to support the Dr. Kathie Elliott Scholarship and invest in future teacher leaders. Click here to learn more about applying for this scholarship.