Lydia Horne Receives Courtney Wilkes Memorial Scholarship

In June 2011, Toombs County tragically lost a beloved 15-year-old, Courtney Wilkes. To commemorate Courtney's memory, the Vidalia Onion farmers created the Courtney Wilkes Memorial Agriculture and Veterinary Scholarship.

The 2026 recipient is Lydia Horne. Lydia graduated as valedictorian of her class at Vidalia Heritage Academy and has built an impressive record of achievement both academically and competitively. She is a two-time Master 4-H’er, a multi-time state horse show champion, a member of both the archery and track teams, and was selected to participate in Harvard Model Congress. She plans to attend ABAC pursuing an animal science degree, and then vet school at UGA. Lydia’s dedication, leadership, and accomplishments make her an outstanding representative of our community and a very deserving recipient.