Angie Thomas Surprises Aspiring Writer with a Full Ride Scholarship

January 28, 2025 (Jackson, Miss.) – Renowned author Angie Thomas surprised high school senior and aspiring writer Owen Jarvis with a full-ride scholarship to her alma mater, Belhaven University. The emotional moment was recorded during a Zoom call on Wednesday, January 22.

Named in honor of best-selling author and Belhaven alumna, the Angie Thomas Writers Scholarship covers tuition, room, and board at the university. The scholarship was created by Belhaven University to help young aspiring writers who need extra support to make their dreams of authorship a reality.

Jarvis, from Pelham, Alabama, believed he was in the final round of interviews when Thomas appeared on screen with good news. “I was blown away – it was quite the ambush,” said Jarvis. “I was expecting an interview and was worried. I couldn’t be more relieved when Angie told me I won. It was depending on the scholarship because my family can’t afford most major colleges. I’m just so thankful. This scholarship is a true blessing!”

Thomas responded, “I have to say, I was that student too. My family couldn’t afford much, and we struggled a lot, even during my time at Belhaven. It’s truly an honor to know that this need has been met for you.”

Jarvis was selected because of his creative writing submissions. His work was reviewed by both Thomas and Dr. Randall Smith, chair of Belhaven’s Creative Writing Department. Thomas said, “I read your submission, and it was wonderful! I have no doubt that the creative writing department is gaining a wonderful student. I can't wait to see what you do.”

Smith highlighted his writing and said, “Owen is exactly the kind of writer we want in the BFA program. His stories—where setting, situation, and character are unique and intertwined—are a testament to a writer who has accomplished much already and who holds much promise for the future.”

Thomas offered insight during the Zoom call, saying, “Remember that this is a wonderful time to learn more about being a writer and strengthening your craft. Enjoy these next four years and take advantage of the time at Belhaven. Stretch your writer brain while you're there. Also, let your faith guide you, because you can't go wrong in that.”

The Angie Thomas Writers Scholarship is awarded to only one student each year, but the other applicants receive partial scholarships. Thomas is the author of New York Times best-selling novels “Concrete Rose,” “On the Come Up,” “The Hate U Give,” and “Nic Blake and the Remarkables: The Manifestor Prophecy.” “The Hate U Give” and “On the Come Up” were both developed into major motion pictures.

Watch the moment when Thomas told Jarvis he was the winner of the Angie Thomas Writers Scholarship: