#Rising Stars Scholarship #Jeffrey Coller #Auston McDaniel

Knoxville's Spring 2025 Rising Stars Scholarship Winner

Knoxville, Tennessee, recently celebrated the announcement of the latest recipient of the Rising Stars Scholarship, awarded by local criminal defense attorney Jeffrey Coller. The scholarship, which was established in late 2023, aims to promote academic excellence among undergraduate students by providing financial assistance. The winner for the Spring 2025 semester, Auston McDaniel, is currently enrolled at MiraCosta College, where he is pursuing a degree in Computer Science.

Auston’s journey has been anything but easy. Like many students, he faced challenges during the pandemic that forced him into a full-time job to help support his family. This situation significantly impacted his academic focus, resulting in less time for homework and class attendance. However, through determination and a commitment to his education, Auston turned his circumstances around once he secured adequate financial aid. He not only improved his grades but also actively participated in university clubs, even taking on leadership roles.

The Rising Stars Scholarship awards $1,000 to students who demonstrate a substantial improvement in their GPA—specifically, an increase of at least one point from one semester to the next. Eligible applicants must have completed at least one year of undergraduate studies and submit a video detailing their efforts to enhance their academic performance.

Jeffrey Coller, who has been practicing law in Tennessee since 2012, expressed his excitement for Auston's achievements. According to Coller, the goal of the Rising Stars Scholarship is not just to provide financial support but also to encourage students to push through adversity and maximize their potential.