Young Professionals of Meridian awards $6,000 in scholarships to local seniors
Meridian, Miss. — Young Professionals of Meridian (YPM) recently awarded three scholarships totaling $6,000 to outstanding high school seniors across the Meridian area, completing an expanded scholarship program aimed at investing in the community’s future leaders.
The 2026 YPM Scholarship provided $2,000 each to one graduating senior from Meridian Public School District, Lauderdale County School District and the homeschool/private school community. Scholarship amounts were increased following fundraising efforts from the inaugural NYE BASH in downtown Meridian.
This year’s scholarship recipients were:
Edi Smith, West Lauderdale High School
Jaden Mosley, Meridian High School
Eli Simpson, Anchor Christian Academy
YPM President Landon Gibson said the organization was proud to expand the program and recognize students who are already making an impact.
“Our organization is made up of young professionals who care deeply about Meridian and Lauderdale County and want to make this a better place to live, work and serve,” Gibson said. “Expanding our scholarship program allows us to invest more directly in students who are already making a difference. Through this process, we met brilliant, driven students from across our area. With future leaders like these, bright days are ahead for Meridian.”
Applicants were evaluated based on academic achievement, leadership, community involvement and character. The YPM Scholarship team conducted in-person panel interviews with the finalists.
YPM Scholarship Team Leader Lily Hull said the selection process reflected the caliber of students and the strength of education across East Mississippi.
“This year’s applicants were incredibly impressive, which made the decision both challenging and rewarding,” Hull said. “These students have already demonstrated leadership and a strong commitment to serving others, and we’re proud to support them as they take the next step in their academic and professional journeys.”
The mission of Young Professionals of Meridian is to provide a proactive and collective voice for young professionals through social interaction and community involvement. The organization brings together people from diverse backgrounds, including military service members and their spouses, homemakers, artists, teachers, students, entrepreneurs and emerging and established leaders, all with a shared commitment to strengthening communities in Meridian and Lauderdale County.
For more information about Young Professionals of Meridian or to learn how to get involved, visit our website at http://embdc.org/.../prof.../young-professionals-of-meridian and follow us on Facebook and Instagram.