Today, the Semeria family of Athens joined representatives from the state of Georgia’s Path2College 529 Plan and Piedmont Athens Regional Medical Center to celebrate. Henry Semeria, who was born at Piedmont Athens Regional last June, was the winner of the 2021 Path2College 529 Newborn Sweepstakes, and he received $5,529 for his college savings.  

“We are so grateful for God placing family and friends in our lives who have encouraged us to start saving for our children's education. Thank you Path2College for providing this opportunity and thank you to those who have invested so much into our lives,” said Nicholas Semeria, Henry’s father. “Winning this will serve as an incredible starting point for our children's future." 

As part of the sweepstakes, the hospital also won $1,529.  

“We believe that it’s never too early to make a positive difference in a child’s life,” said Dena Ollis, director of Piedmont Athens Regional’s women and children’s services. “This donation will be used to purchase developmental equipment for our NICU (neonatal intensive care unit) and will help us give our babies the best start possible.” 

The Newborn Sweepstakes was established in 2011 to help inform families with newborns about the state’s college savings plan and the importance of financial planning. Since its inception, it has awarded more than $55,000 to Georgia children to help with their education expenses, as well as more than $15,000 to Georgia hospitals. 

“While it’s never too late to start saving, reaching new parents and encouraging them to start saving as early as possible is a great way to build a strong financial foundation,” said Georgia Student Finance Commission President Lynne Riley. “Saving small amounts over time will have a huge impact on a child’s college savings, and there is no better time to start than now.”

The 2022 Newborn Sweepstakes is currently available, and parents, grandparents and guardians of Georgia babies born in 2022 may go to www.Path2College529.com until April 14, 2023, for official rules, prize details and to enter for a chance to win the 2022 Newborn Sweepstakes.  No purchase necessary.  Void where prohibited. Sponsored by thePath2College 529 Plan. 

For more information about the Path2College 529 Plan or to open a college savings account, please visitwww.Path2College529.com or call (877) 424-4377.