South Warren High School senior surprised with $20,000 Coca-Cola Scholarship

BOWLING GREEN, Ky. – Lunchtime at South Warren High School took an exciting turn earlier this week when Representatives from the Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation surprised one hard-working senior with a $20,000 scholarship.

Ange Divine Irakiza Senga expected nothing more than some food and time with friends during her lunch break. Never did she predict she would leave with a $20,000 scholarship.

“Knowing that I’m a Coke Scholar, it’s hard to even believe,” said Divine. “I thought maybe it was in a dream. I didn’t realize it was actually happening until I heard clapping, but it was…I don’t know how to feel!”

Divine’s family and the Warren County Public School Board helped crown the senior Spartan as elite 150 Coca-Cola Scholars 2023 selected nationwide.

“Each round [of the scholarship process] that I made passed I was like, ‘Oh my goodness!’ And like, I gave all the glory to God. And I just can’t imagine that I even made it to the finals. So, seeing all my younger sisters, my parents, it made me realize that this is really happening.”

Divine’s father said, “We are so, so proud of her.”

“We love her,” added Divine’s mother. “This has been a blessing, and she’s a very good example for her four young sisters.”

To make the occasion even sweeter, Coca-Cola gave out free Cokes to the entire lunchroom.

Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation President Jane Hopkins said, “[Our scholarship recipients are] students and high school seniors who understand the importance of leadership and service at a really young age…And we are excited to meet Divine and her entire family.”

On top of her scholarship, Divine will get to join Coca-Cola Scholars from all over the country on a free trip to Atlanta.

“I’m just like super excited for it to be coming true,” said Divine.

Divine says she’s still undecided on which college she’ll use her scholarship money toward – but no doubt she’ll go far wherever she chooses!