On Friday, November 1, 2024, the Georgia Historical Society (GHS) unveiled a new historical marker in Young Harris as part of the Business History Initiative. Dedicated in partnership with the Georgia Lottery Corporation, the marker details how the corporation, since its adoption by the General Assembly in 1992, has provided more than 2.1 million students with HOPE scholarships and served more than 2 million 4-year-olds with voluntary pre-kindergarten programs. GHS has also released free educator resources aligned to the Georgia standards to help students explore how the corporation is a significant part of Georgia’s economy.

“The creation of the Georgia Lottery was one of the most far-reaching and farsighted decisions in Georgia history, both in terms of business and education,” said GHS President and CEO Dr. W. Todd Groce. “Making it possible for Georgia’s top students to attend college tuition-free has kept those highly motivated and well-educated young people in this state, rather than sending them beyond our borders. Retaining that kind of talent has helped to position Georgia as one of the leading states in the country to do business.”

"This historical marker is a symbol of the Georgia Lottery’s enduring legacy and a reminder of the positive impact we continue to make in the lives of Georgia’s students, families, and communities,” said Georgia Lottery Corporation President and CEO Gretchen Corbin. “It preserves our rich history for generations to come and provides a lasting place for both citizens and visitors to discover the Georgia Lottery’s contributions."

Young Harris native Zell Miller promised to institute a state lottery during his 1990 gubernatorial campaign, with proceeds directly funding new educational programs. After the Georgia Lottery Corporation’s adoption in 1992, the corporation began ticket sales in June 1993. The first-year revenue goals were met within five months. Reaching the goal of $463.5 million meant that Georgia surpassed Florida for the most successful first-year lottery.

"Zell Miller’s legacy as a Young Harris College graduate extends far beyond our campus. His vision for creating the Georgia Lottery, HOPE, and Zell Miller Scholarships has transformed the educational landscape of our state, making college more accessible and affordable for countless students," said Young Harris College President Dr. Drew Van Horn. “As a proud alumnus, Zell’s commitment to education and public service continues to inspire our community at Young Harris College, reminding us of the profound impact one individual can have. We are honored to uphold his legacy by ensuring students have the opportunities and support they need to succeed."

Using lotteries to finance projects related to education has a long history in America, beginning in the colonial era. Today 42 states plus the District of Columbia participate in government-sponsored lotteries. In many of these cases, the lottery is a mechanism through which states can supplement public education without increasing taxes. More than 90 percent of the company’s revenue goes back into the community through the lottery winnings provided to players, funds to support education, and commissions to retailers who sell Georgia Lottery tickets, making the Georgia Lottery Corporation a significant part of Georgia’s economy.

The marker dedication took place at the Alumni House on Young Harris College campus in Young Harris. Speakers included Dr. W. Todd Groce, President and CEO, Georgia Historical Society; Dr. Drew Van Horn, President, Young Harris College; Liam King, Student, Young Harris College and Zell Miller Scholar; Gretchen Corbin, President and CEO, Georgia Lottery Corporation; and Shirley Miller, former First Lady of Georgia and wife of Governor Zell Miller.

The marker text reads:

The Georgia Lottery Corporation

During his 1990 gubernatorial campaign, Young Harris native Zell Miller promised to institute a state lottery, with proceeds directly funding new educational programs. The General Assembly adopted Miller’s plan in 1992, and Georgia voters approved it that fall. The Lottery began with great acclaim on June 29, 1993. The enabling legislation specified programs to be funded by Lottery proceeds, including college HOPE scholarships and grants, Head Start and pre-kindergarten programs, and developing physical and technological infrastructures for K-12 and postsecondary institutions statewide. The popularity of the Lottery and the programs it funds influenced other states to pursue lottery-funded educational programs. By 2023, the Georgia Lottery Corporation had provided more than 2.1 million students with HOPE scholarships and served more than 2 million 4-year-olds with voluntary pre-kindergarten programs.

Erected by the Georgia Historical Society and the Georgia Lottery Corporation

For more information about the Georgia Lottery Corporation historical marker dedication, the Georgia Historical Society marker program, or the Georgia Business History Initiative, please contact Elyse Butler, Manager of Programs and Special Projects, at 912.651.2125, ext. 119, or by email at [email protected].