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Emma Davis of Valdosta selected as Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta Rural Pediatric Scholar at Mercer University School of Medicine - Valdosta Daily Times.Emma Davis of Valdosta selected as Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta Rural Pediatric Scholar at Mercer University School of Medicine Published 10:21 am Monday, June 1, 2026 MACON – Emma Davis (Class of 2030) of Valdosta was selected to receive the Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta Rural Pediatric Scholarship at Mercer University School of Medicine (MUSM) for the 2026 academic year.The scholars will receive full tuition for up to four academic years in return for their commitment to serve children in rural Georgia upon completing their education, Mercer Univeristy said in a press release.The scholars will also receive specialized training at Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta’s (Children’s) facilities, including autism training for the Master of Family Therapy students.MUSM selected scholars based on their commitment to becoming pediatricians or family therapists, strong ties to rural Georgia, demonstrated character, leadership qualities, community involvement and a commitment to serving in rural, underserved Georgia after their scholarship obligations are met, the release said.They are also required to maintain good academic standing throughout their studies.The Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta Rural Health Scholarship Programs were established as part of a joint initiative between MUSM and Children’s, which was announced in February 2023.“These scholarships offer a transformational and sustainable solution to improve access to pediatric healthcare in rural Georgia.The Children’s Rural Pediatric Scholars will fill a critical need in our rural communities for years to come,” said Donna Hyland, CEO, Children’s.“The pediatric expertise they develop through their training will have a tremendous impact on the areas where they serve, and we are grateful for their commitment to the kids and families of Georgia.” “The first cohort included two seniors who are now just months away from completing their pediatric residency and realizing their dream of serving in rural Georgia,” said MUSM Dean Jean Sumner, M.D., M.A.C.P.“This is our third group of therapy students, and interest is strong.The 100 rural pediatricians and family therapists who finish debt-free as a result of this initiative will ensure access to high-quality care for children across rural Georgia.This transformative opportunity is made possible by Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta.” Davis was drawn to the scholarship because it will facilitate her ability to provide care for rural Georgia’s children while removing the financial burden of medical education.After residency, Davis plans to practice pediatrics in a medically underserved community in rural Georgia.Davis is the daughter of Jeremy and Charlotte Davis, fiancée to Kale Corbett, sister of Noah Davis and granddaughter of Mike and Gay Davis and Nancy Burrell.The 2026 scholars were honored during a special ceremony on April 21 in the presence of Hyland, Mercer University President Penny L.Elkins, Ph.D., Dr.Sumner and scholars’ families.“It is always a special day when you can offer highly qualified medical and family therapy students — truly committed to becoming rural pediatricians and therapists — a full scholarship,” added Dr.“MUSM is honored to work with and is deeply grateful to Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta.This joint initiative will dramatically increase access to outstanding medical and mental health care across rural, underserved Georgia.”