Presidential Scholarships Awarded to Five WV Seniors

Five of West Virginia's most accomplished high school seniors have earned the highest honor the University of Charleston offers: the Presidential Scholarship.

Valued at nearly $180,000, the scholarship covers full tuition, fees, housing, and meals for four years - removing financial barriers and allowing students to focus fully on their academic future.

The 2026 Presidential Scholars are:

• Evy Altizer, Chapmanville Regional High School - Nursing
• Kindy Barnett, Ripley High School - Radiologic Science
• Bryton Bennett, Herbert Hoover High School - Nursing
• Lexi Mitchell, Roane County High School - Biology
• Dawson Tenney, Buckhannon-Upshur High School - Nursing

"The Presidential Scholarship is the most competitive and selective opportunity we offer," UC President Marty Roth said. "We are honored to invest in these outstanding students and their future, and I have no doubt they will continue to grow, make a difference, and represent the University of Charleston in a special way. We congratulate every student who participated and appreciate the effort it took to reach this stage."

The Presidential Scholars were selected after a highly competitive process that began with 40 semifinalists from around the world and included multiple rounds of interviews. The five recipients distinguished themselves through academic achievement, leadership, character, and involvement beyond the classroom.

They will also participate in exclusive seminars throughout their four years at UC led by President Roth, while building meaningful connections with business, community, and political leaders that will help expand their personal and professional networks.

In addition to the top awards, all finalists and semifinalists received additional scholarship support as part of the University of Charleston's continued effort to invest in students and expand access to higher education.

For future students interested in this opportunity, more information and application details can be found here: UC Presidential Scholarship Program.