One young man and one young woman will each receive a $2,000 scholarship to be used at the college or university of their choice, in addition to smaller scholarships awarded by some of our sponsors. Check our Facebook page for the live announcement of the winners starting at approximately 4:30 p.m. Tuesday, March 3.
We hope these excerpts from the finalists’ application essays provide an encouraging look at what God is doing in Mississippi’s young people!
Thank you to our 2026 sponsors:
Gold: Morgan White Group Silver: Mississippi College
Bronze: Mississippi Fellowship of Christian Athletes, Ballet Magnificat!
Friends: Lakeside Moulding, Blue Mountain Christian University, William Carey University
In-kind: MMI Dining, Fresh Cut Catering & Floral
Madeline Diane Beckmann
- Clinton Christian Academy
- Clinton Methodist Church
- Parents: Jonathan and Lauren Beckmann
My favorite Bible passage is Hebrews 11:1-3. … I struggle with anxiety and always feel I need to be in control, but with God I live in confidence of his plan. I have interpreted this passage as saying that God does not want us to know the answer to everything. He wants us to rely on him for the answer.
Katelyn Leigh Blackard
- Madison-Ridgeland Academy
- Pinelake Church (Madison)
- Parents: Chad and Kristen Blackard
I vividly remember at the age of six at church camp when I felt the Lord calling me to profess my faith as my own and start a personal relationship with Him. In that moment, I knew I was a sinner and needed to repent and accept Jesus as my Lord and Savior. It was a big decision at a young age, but I know (God) placed me in that camp for that specific purpose.
Sara Madalin Brown
- Jackson Academy
- First Baptist Jackson
- Parents: Reagan and Malinda Brown
I don’t like seeing people excluded or left out at school, church, or anywhere actually. When I see someone new, I try to make sure they know they are welcome and not alone. … I think, right now, at my age and in my realm of influence, the most important thing I can do to live out my faith is to let people know there is love in my heart for them because God created them and loves them.
Lyla Bryan
- Saltillo High School
- Faith Outreach Church (Okolona)
- Parents: Jay and Teri Bryan
Whenever I’m stressed or overwhelmed, (my dad) gently reminds me to speak faith and trust in God’s plan. In moments of frustration or sadness, he’s always there to offer me comfort, encouragement, and remind me of how deeply the Lord loves me. … He doesn’t just talk about faith; he lives it daily through his actions. My dad is always finding ways to serve others, whether through small acts of kindness or larger commitments of time and effort.
Caroline Carlisle
- Saltillo High School
- Hope Church (Tupelo)
- Parents: David and Shannon Carlisle
I have always had a propensity for math and science classes. I enjoy being outside and am not afraid to get my hands dirty. For all of those reasons I feel a calling to civil engineering, perhaps a specialty in structural engineering. With the training in that discipline I plan to help others with construction projects here on earth while also living my faith and building up the kingdom of heaven.
Lucy Claire Davis
- Madison-Ridgeland Academy
- Christ United Jackson
- Parents: Bryan Davis, Leslie Walters
John Wesley has impacted my life the most …. I grew up in the Methodist Church; every man in my immediate family carries the name John Wesley, and my sister shares the “Wesley” part as well. (John Wesley) didn’t just preach, he cared for the poor, visited prisoners, and believed in serving others … Knowing that my own family honors his name makes me want to carry forward that same commitment to Christ in my own life.
Maylee Gilmer
- Florence High School
- First Baptist Church Florence
- Parents: Gregg and April Gilmer
One Sunday, I was sitting in children’s church, and … I recognized my own brokenness and my need for a Savior. That night, I gave my life to Christ. I remember feeling overwhelmed by God’s love and also the weight of my sin. It wasn’t just about knowing God anymore, but it was about having a personal relationship with Him. Since then, my walk with Christ has grown through seasons of joy and struggle.
Hannah Brooke Haney
- East Webster High School (Maben)
- Chester Baptist (Ackerman), Pinelake Church
- Parents: Jeff and Christa Haney
I prioritize kindness to all and sharing my faith at all times possible. That means when being invited to drink and party, saying no instead of conforming to the world. That means when the lunch table is gossiping, intervening and saying that it is wrong. … I want to use my differences to make differences, and I am unashamed of being seen as odd or different, because that is who God created me to be.
Matthew Hatchett
- Homeschooled
- Pear Orchard Presbyterian (Ridgeland)
- Parents: Brad and Amy Hatchett
I like (Ephesians 2:4-8) because its focus is on what God did, which is a reminder that my salvation has nothing to do with me. … That reality humbles me, because sometimes it’s hard for me to accept that I’m powerless in my own salvation. But at the same time, this verse helps me remember that my failures can never negate God’s mercy.
William Charles Johnson
- St. Andrew’s Episcopal School (Ridgeland)
- First Baptist Madison
- Parents: Ross and Anna Johnson
I believe God is calling me to serve in the military. Growing up in a family devoted to church ministry, I have seen the importance of service, discipline, and leadership. The military offers an opportunity to protect others, uphold justice, and lead with integrity. These values are ones that align with my faith. I want to use my skills and courage to serve my country while reflecting Christ’s love through my actions.
Lucy Jones
- Jackson Academy
- Highlands Presbyterian (Ridgeland)
- Parents: Scott and Maggie Jones
I have always been particularly comforted by 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18. My family has always used these verses as our “family bible verses.” Sometimes it is hard to stay positive and give thanks when things get hard, but these verses serve as a reminder that God has called each of us to be thankful and rejoice in Him.
Riley Landry
- West Jones High School (Laurel)
- First Baptist Church of Sharon (Laurel)
- Parents: Marshall and Ashley Landry
Following Jesus is not only about having faith in Him, it’s about living life in a way that reflects Him daily. One way I do this is by praying and looking for opportunities to serve others. I started a devotional on Fridays before football games for the band and began the tradition of a prayer before every event. … I pray that by living openly for Christ, others will see His love and truth through me.
Abby Grace Lewis
- Pearl High School
- McLaurin Heights Baptist (Pearl)
- Parents: Jason and Christy Lewis
(With my youth group) I shared my story honestly, including how I had been trying to find fulfillment in things apart from God, and how empty that had left me. I admitted my struggles and how God was patiently calling me back to Him. Speaking those words out loud was not easy, but it was liberating. Many of the people listening to my testimony related to my struggles, and it opened doors for deeper conversations and encouragement.
Kinley Lott
- Vicksburg Catholic School
- St. Paul’s Catholic Church (Vicksburg)
- Parents: Brooke Lott; Brian Lott (deceased)
Some Christians are embarrassed of their faith; though, I think it should be the complete opposite. They should be proud to broadcast their faith to their communities and to the world. I want to teach my children to be the same way. If we teach our children to be loud in their faith, others in their generation will do the same. It will create a chain, and it will pass on from household to household.
Kayson Berry-O’Neal Magee
- Bogue Chitto Attendance Center
- Bogue Chitto Baptist Church
- Parents: Anthony Magee and Karen Givens
Because I have a younger brother with special needs, and I have devoted so much of my time to others like him, I feel led to become a counselor who works with special needs children. God has also laid on my heart to share his word through Youth ministry or even as a pastor … Whichever path God lays on my heart to pursue, I want to honor him.
Morgan Anne Marion
- Jackson Preparatory School
- Pinelake Church (Madison)
- Parents: Charles and Christy Marion
I felt I had no identity or purpose in life and constantly felt out of place. I had no self worth in myself. I believe God allowed me to go through that in order to open my eyes to the fact that He would be the only way my emptiness would be filled. After struggling for a couple of months, I decided to dive deep into my faith … and I would soon find out this would be the thing that I devote my life to. When I started to dive deeper and deeper into scripture and prayer, I began to see the difference in my life when I started to have a loving and constant relationship with Jesus. I began to see myself through God’s eyes instead of others, and I gained a confidence that was caused by God’s strength alone.
Melissa Catherine McNeese
- Madison-Ridgeland Academy
- Madison Methodist Church
- Parents: Trippe McNeese, Melissa McNeese
My favorite Bible passage is Isaiah 40:28-31. … This passage is a guiding light for the message (Camp Ozark) puts out to the older campers. … I have this passage posted on my mirror at home, my phone lock screen, and placed in my room. This passage is a continuous reminder in my life of no matter how hard it gets, to keep going and pushing because the Lord will guide you through.
Maddox Michini
- George County High School (Lucedale)
- Azalea City Church of Christ (Semmes, AL)
- Parents: Mario and Morgan Michini
On January 6, 2019, I had a very heavy heart all day. I had been studying a lot about baptism, and I felt God calling me to do it. We went to bed that night, and I could not fall asleep. It was weighing too heavy on me. I woke my parents, and they called our preacher. We met him at the church shortly after. My dad baptized me that very night. I realized the need and invited God into my heart.
Jameson Mosley
- Stringer Attendance Center
- Bethlehem Community Church (Laurel)
- Parents: Marc and Crystal Mosley
At the end of 2024, I suffered from Bell’s Palsy, and the right side of my face was completely paralyzed. Immediately following that … I suffered severe burns on fifty percent of my neck. (My) friends noticed how my positive character never wavered during these times. However … it is more challenging to live out my faith while living in my day-to-day life. (I) am especially blessed to have friends and family who encourage me and hold me accountable.
Kylee Nix
- Pillow Academy (Greenwood)
- St. John’s Global Methodist (Greenwood)
- Parents: Michael and Meggan Nix
(My small group leader, Amanda Jefcoat) lights up every room. I have only seen her get mad maybe once in about 5 years. … She constantly reminds me of God’s love and mercy by sending me Bible verses daily. Her love for Christ inspires me to be the same way, which I believe is one of the best qualities a person can have. She pushes me to get out of my comfort zone.
Ellie Pettus
- Hartfield Academy (Flowood)
- Pinelake Church (Brandon)
- Parents: Jonathan and Ashleey Pettus
I believe God is calling me to become an adolescent therapist. My passion for this path was inspired by my grandmother, who always made others feel seen, heard, and deeply cared for. Watching the way she loved and supported people, especially the younger generation, showed me the power of listening and compassion. I want to help teens navigate mental and emotional challenges with empathy, truth, and hope.
Madelyn Beth Robinson
- Tishomingo County High School (Iuka)
- Mt. Evergreen Church (Iuka)
- Parents: Robert and Melanie Robinson
God willingly sent his one and only son to pay the price on the cross for our sins, offering redemption and eternal life to all who believe in Jesus Christ. Although the story (of the crucifixion) is filled with pain and suffering, it is also filled with hope and love. … When I read this passage, I feel challenged to live my life with gratitude and purpose.
Hannah Joy Smercak
- Union High School
- Crossgates Church (Brandon)
- Mother: Joy Smercak
I believe God has called me to pursue a career as an anesthesiologist. I do not view this decision as a preference or a simple job; I view it as my mission field and a way to live out my faith. Anesthesiologists care for patients during some of their most vulnerable moments, and God has placed a desire in my heart to bring comfort, safety, and calmness in these times.
Edi Smith
- West Lauderdale High School (Collinsville)
- Collinsville First Baptist
- Parents: Scott and Lynn Smith
My favorite Bible passage is Psalm 139:23-24. This passage speaks to me because it is a prayer of surrender and a reminder that God knows me fully. In a world where it is easy to be distracted and led by my own desires, this passage brings me back to humility in Christ. It encourages me to invite God into every part of my life and to allow him to reveal anything that does not Honor Him.
Zamiya Stinner
- Newton High School
- Hope Well House Of Prayer (Rose Hill)
- Parents: Joseph and Yolanda Magee
As a minister and my primary spiritual guide, (my dad’s) influence isn’t just felt on some days. He has taught me that true Christian leadership is not about title, but about serving and living right. I have watched him navigate both personal challenges and church crises by responding with quiet faith and unwavering reliance on God … His greatest impact is how he lives out Joshua 1:9, always encouraging me to be strong and courageous.
Pyper Terry
- Ocean Springs High School
- St. Paul Ocean Springs
- Parents: Jeremy and Crystal Terry
(At a church retreat) I felt like everything I had been learning went from a history lesson to a personal connection with my creator. … I reflected on how much weight the crucifixion holds and how grateful I was that I get to live in the wonder of the working blood. When I returned home from M28, following Jesus became my first priority.
Julius Elijah Thomas
- Clinton Christian Academy
- New Life Church of God in Christ (Blackhawk)
- Parents: Joshua Thomas, Jamesha Pate
I believe God may be calling me to a career in either mass communication or sports medicine because both allow me to serve others while using my gifts. Through mass communication, I can use my voice to inspire, inform, and share messages that uplift and reflect my faith. In sports medicine, I can combine my love for athletics with a heart to help people heal and perform at their best.
Kelly Thomas
- Madison-Ridgeland Academy
- Pinelake Church (Madison)
- Parents: John and Tisha Thomas
During my recovery after a serious car accident, (I) struggled with horrendous trauma, fear, and anxiety. … I prayed more honestly than I ever had before, not just the “perfect” prayers, but the real ones that admitted my fears. I also leaned into Scripture, especially Ephesians 2:10, which reminded me that I was created on purpose by God and that He has a plan prepared for my life.
John William Walker
- St. Andrew’s Episcopal School (Ridgeland)
- First Baptist Jackson
- Parents: Tom and Crissie Walker
(My older brother has) impacted me so much because even though he’s in college and busy, he always makes time for me and drives 30 minutes every Friday morning to go over the Word with me. He’s always my first call whenever things go wrong. Also, he constantly lives his life on mission, no matter where he finds himself, and spending time with him usually means sharing the Gospel with someone we meet.
Annie Kate White
- Leake Academy (Madden)
- First Methodist Philadelphia
- Parents: William and Leigh Ann White
I started the Little Rebels program, which is one of my favorite (school) activities. On Friday football game days, a few football players and cheerleaders greet the kindergarteners as they get out of their cars in the drop-off line, and then we visit their classrooms before class begins. It’s a simple tradition that builds school spirit, but more importantly, it gives the kids a sense of encouragement and belonging.
Mac Wilemon
- Tupelo High School
- West Jackson Street Baptist (Tupelo)
- Parents: Trey and Courtney Wilemon
In middle school, I began to have a strong desire to be obedient for the sake of glorifying the Lord, rather than doing it for my own merit. Around that time is when my personal relationship with the Lord began to flourish … I am so grateful that the Lord is sanctifying me daily and I pray that my life can be an example for others to be led to His glory as well.