Alex McLelland (left), Matthew Henry, Chelsea Caveny, Christopher Cox, Katie Watson and Richard Walters

Lott scholars focus on academics and community service

Since its founding in 1848, The University of Mississippi has nurtured state and national leaders, and that tradition continues with special training opportunities offered by the Trent Lott Leadership Institute.

Six freshmen entered UM last fall as recipients of $40,000 Lott Leadership scholarships, which include association with the institute. The exceptional students are chosen for the awards based on their leadership abilities, academic performance and records of community service.

“This scholarship ensures that Ole Miss will continue its long tradition of nurturing strong leaders for our state and nation, and the caliber of these recipients proves that point,” said Chancellor Robert Khayat, who invites the Lott scholars to join the Chancellor’s Leadership Class.

This year’s scholarship recipients are Chelsea Caveny of Hattiesburg, Christopher Cox of Moss Point, Richard Walters of Brandon, Katie Watson of Louisville, and Alex McLelland and Matthew Henry, both of Madison.

Lott scholars are required to pursue the university’s undergraduate degree program in public policy leadership, which is the first such degree program to be offered in the state. Besides maintaining academic standards, the students are expected to continue their commitment to community service. To help them balance these requirements, they are paired with faculty mentors in their major fields of study.

“The faculty members understand that these young leaders will need guidance to help lead Mississippi and America into the future,” said Bill Gottshall, executive director of the Lott Institute. “We commend each of these students on receiving this scholarship, and now we hope to offer them the education, skills and experience needed to endure as tomorrow’s leaders.”

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