The University of Mississippi announced its 2025-26 Ole Miss 8 scholars, including two from Newton County: Aaliyah Pruitt of Lawrence and Kaleaja Jones of Newton.
The Ole Miss 8 Scholarship was launched in fall 2023 to honor the eight University of Mississippi students who participated in a peaceful demonstration on campus and were motivated to achieve access for future generations of students who enroll at the university.
This scholarship is awarded on a competitive basis to Mississippi residents who demonstrate a strong commitment to creating opportunities and strengthening their communities. It covers remaining costs of tuition, on-campus housing and a meal plan for up to eight semesters, and it also provides programming designed to support students' academic and career goals.
"We are incredibly proud of our Ole Miss 8 scholars, who actively participate in leadership programs, service opportunities, and other civic and scholarly pursuits that strengthen our university community," said Roger Davis Jr., program director of access and engagement at the University of Mississippi.
"These scholars continue to inspire us, and we look forward to seeing the impact they will make as they pursue their individual academic a
