Southern Miss Business Announces 2026-27 Eagle Scholars

Wed, 09/30/2026 - 11:14am | By: Bailey Harris Shoemake

The College of Business and Economic Development at The University of Southern Mississippi is pleased to announce the 2026-27 selections for the EAGLE Scholars Program.

This prestigious scholarship and leadership development program is committed to fostering the growth and success of motivated undergraduate business students who embody integrity, a strong work ethic, dedication to completing their degrees, financial need and outstanding academic achievement.

This year’s EAGLE Scholar recipients include:

• James Boulton – Junior, Sport Management; Hometown: Daphne, Ala.
• Matthew Brown – Junior, Business Administration; Hometown: Lacombe, La.
• Kathryn Byrd – Senior, Accounting; Hometown: Lumberton, Miss.
• Garrett Grantham – Junior, Finance; Hometown: Mobile, Ala.
• Diego Henriquez – Senior, Accounting; Hometown: La Lima, Honduras
• Mary Holmes – Senior, Business Administration; Hometown: Vancleave, Miss.
• Riwaaz Kandel – Junior, Accounting; Hometown: Dhapakel, Nepal
• Jeevan Karki – Senior, Accounting; Hometown: Kanchanpur, Nepal
• Chijike Mgbam – Senior, Entrepreneurship; Hometown: Mansfield, Texas
• Kye Reese – Senior, Finance; Hometown: Petal, Miss.
• Alex Rivers – Senior, Marketing; Hometown: Denham Springs, La.
• Hayden Stipe – Senior, Marketing; Hometown: Covington, La.
• Katherine Stockstill – Senior, Human Resources Management; Hometown: Carriere, Miss.

“I am excited to welcome this year’s class of EAGLE Scholars and look forward to watching them grow as students, leaders and future professionals,” said Russ Willis, director of the EAGLE Scholars Program and associate provost for student success. “This program provides students with meaningful opportunities to develop their leadership skills, build lasting relationships with mentors, and prepare students for success beyond the classroom.”

EAGLE Scholars receive annual scholarships of up to $8,000, with the possibility of additional support for study abroad or summer school programs. In addition to financial assistance, EAGLE Scholars are provided with invaluable opportunities to participate in a comprehensive series of leadership and professional development programs tailored to enhance their collegiate experiences.

“Being a part of the EAGLE Scholars Program has provided me with more than just financial support; it has allowed me to grow professionally and build meaningful relationships with mentors in the business industry,” said Hayden Stipe, who has been in the program since Fall 2025. “I am incredibly grateful to be part of a program that invests in students and encourages us to make the most of the opportunities we are given.”

The selection process for EAGLE Scholars is highly competitive, with candidates being evaluated on several criteria, including their work ethic, clear career goals, and a demonstrated commitment to completing their degrees. The scholarship is eligible for annual renewal, and program activities are customized to align with the student's academic progress.

For prospective applicants, the application window for the 2027-28 EAGLE Scholars Program is already open and will close on March 1, 2027. Learn more on eligibility and the application process.

About the College of Business and Economic Development 
The College of Business and Economic Development at The University of Southern Mississippi prepares students for success through applied learning, leadership development and nationally recognized academic programs. The AACSB-accredited college offers undergraduate, graduate, and certificate programs, including an MBA program that has been consistently ranked among leading programs by U.S. News & World Report and Fortune. Experiential learning is central to the college’s approach. Students gain real-world experience through client-based projects, internships, and employer engagement, supported by industry partners and an active alumni network. Located in Scianna Hall, the college provides access to specialized resources including the Center for Entrepreneurship, App Development Lab, Finance Lab, and Professional Sales Lab, where students develop in-demand skills through hands-on application and national competition.