Three Detroit Country Day School Students Named Coca-Cola Scholar Semifinalists

DCDS Seniors Lara and Maya Hammoud and Nadiyah Tarver have been named as Semifinalists for the 2026 Coca-Cola Scholars Program. Lara and Maya, who live in Franklin, and Nadiyah, who lives in Birmingham, are now on the shortlist for 150 college scholarships worth $20,000 each. The three are among only 1,238 students nationwide who were selected as Semifinalists based on their academic excellence, leadership, and service demonstrated in school and community activities.

“We are incredibly proud of Lara, Maya, and Nadiyah for being recognized among the nation’s top leaders and scholars,” says DCDS Head of School Rich Dempsey. “They reflect the very best of Detroit Country Day — students who lead with intellect, integrity, and compassion. Their journey is just beginning, and the impact they will have on the world will be extraordinary.”

Detroit Country Day School is the only school in Michigan to have three students named as semifinalists, the most in any school in the state.

According to the Coca-Cola Foundation, those selected as semifinalists are well-rounded, bright young leaders who excel academically and are actively involved in their schools and communities. These leaders are curious and service-oriented and demonstrate a sustained commitment to improving their community.

The Hammouds and Tarver will now complete Phase 2 applications, which include essays, a recommendation, and a transcript. An independent selection committee will review the applications and recommend 250 Regional Finalists in early January to take part in online interviews. 150 of the Regional Finalists will be named as Coke Scholars-select in late February and attend Coca-Cola Scholars Weekend in Atlanta, Georgia, April 23-26, 2026, where they will be the guests of honor at the 38th annual Coca-Cola Scholars Banquet and participate in the Coca-Cola Scholars Leadership Development Institute facilitated by program alumni. Upon completion of Scholars Weekend in Atlanta, they will be named official Coca-Cola Scholars and receive a $20,000 college scholarship.

The Coca-Cola Scholars Program is the largest corporate-sponsored, achievement-based scholarship program in the United States. With the addition of the 2026 class, the Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation will have provided more than 7,200 Coke Scholars nationwide with over $90 million in scholarships over the course of 38 years.

“We believe that identifying these young leaders throughout the country and encouraging their passion for serving others not only empowers the students but also lifts up those around them.” said Jane Hale Paulsen, President of the Foundation. “The Coca-Cola system is dedicated to giving back to the communities they serve, and the Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation is proud to be a part of that commitment.”

In addition to receiving college scholarships, those students selected as Coca-Cola Scholars will be welcomed into a vibrant and growing community of alumni that has become a powerful force for positive change in the world. Through networking, collaborations, and friendships, the group strives to make a greater impact together. Unique opportunities include a coaching program that partners seasoned alumni with first-year Scholars as they transition to college, professional and personal development programming, and a Coca-Cola Scholars Leadership Summit every 5 years.