Belhaven University Seeks Next Great Writer: Full Ride Scholarship on the Line

September 23, 2024 (Jackson. Miss.) - Belhaven University is searching for aspiring writers to award a full-ride scholarship. In honor of well-known author and alum Angie Thomas ’11, the University will award the Angie Thomas Writers Scholarship to one incoming creative writing major. 

Now in its fifth year, these scholarships are named in honor of Thomas, author of New York Times best-selling novels On the Come Up, The Hate U Give, Concrete Rose, and Nic Blake and the Remarkables.

Thomas said, “Seeing the Angie Thomas Writers Scholarship have a major impact on the lives of young writers has truly been a blessing, and I’m honored to see so much talent find its way to Belhaven as a result of the scholarship.”

Participating students will submit samples of writing, and Belhaven will award one incoming freshman a full-ride scholarship, which will cover tuition, room and board at the University for four years. Other applicants may receive scholarships as part of the program.

Thomas is encouraging students to apply and believes there are many young writers who need the extra support to make their dreams of authorship a reality. “It's inspiring to know that this scholarship will lift the financial burden for a young writer, giving them the freedom to fully dedicate themselves to their craft,” said Thomas.

Imani Skipwith was the first winner of the scholarship in 2020. She said, “The scholarship has helped me tremendously in taking the financial burden off my parents and allowing me to explore my craft without the extra stress. I’ve enjoyed studying creative writing at Belhaven. I’m learning to develop healthy writing habits while getting the assistance I need from my professors.”

Chair and Professor of Creative Writing Dr. Randall Smith said, “This award offers an unparalleled opportunity for four years of transformative growth—not just as a writer, but as a person and artist. Through our BFA in Creative Writing, talented storytellers and poets join a vibrant community, rooted in a rich tradition of creative excellence.”

Scholarship applications are due November 15, 2024, and the winner will be selected and announced during the week of December 16, 2024.

Interested students can visit gobelhaven.com/angie to learn more about the requirements and apply today.