Georgia Foundation Expands Scholarships to Honor Teen

A foundation created after a teenager died in a car crash just days before her 2024 graduation is now helping students across an entire Georgia county pursue their dreams.

The Mary Joy Moosman Foundation announced it will award nine scholarships this year to seniors at all three Troup County high schools. Last year, the foundation only had funds to support students at Mary Joy's school, Troup High.

"Even though we're rivals, as far as the high schools go, we still want to make it available to all of Troup County seniors who would qualify to just spread joy and kindness in Mary Joy's honor," said Amber Moosman, Mary Joy's mom. "I think MJ would approve. She was a friend to all."

The foundation will award scholarships in three categories at each school: academics, cheer, and soccer. These areas reflected Mary Joy's passions as a top student who tutored others, played varsity soccer, and competed in cheer for the Troup Tigers.

Mary Joy worked two jobs while in high school to save money for college. Now her foundation wants to ease that burden for other students pursuing college, trade school, or certification programs.

Applications are open through March 13, and scholarships will be awarded during each school's honors program. Awards are $1,500 for Troup High School and $500 for LaGrange and Callaway high schools.

The Ripple Effect

The foundation raises scholarship funds through two annual community events: the Joy Ride and MJ's Lemonade Stand. The Joy Ride, scheduled for June 19, celebrates what would have been Mary Joy's 20th birthday with live music at a local pizza restaurant. Community members can also host their own lemonade stands in July to support the foundation's mission.

"Every scholarship and act of kindness helps my family and I keep our baby alive," Amber said. "She was extraordinary and was the kindest, most loving soul you'd ever meet."

The foundation's rapid growth shows how one family's grief transformed into a movement that keeps spreading kindness. What started as a way to honor one graduate now touches dozens of students across three schools, multiplying Mary Joy's impact far beyond what she could have imagined.

The scholarships ensure that Mary Joy's humble, selfless love continues through the lives of students who will carry her legacy forward into their own communities and careers.