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Jax State Welcomes 2025 Honors Scholarship Recipients

Jacksonville, AL (09/03/2025) — Jacksonville State University has announced the eight recipients of its prestigious 2025 Honors Scholarship, the university's most competitive academic award.

Each year, only eight high school seniors are selected for the scholarship, which covers tuition, housing, a meal plan, and books for four years. To qualify, students must have an ACT score of at least 30, a GPA of 3.75 or higher, and demonstrate leadership and service in their schools and communities.

"It's an honor to welcome this exceptional group of eight Honors Scholars to Jax State," said Dr. Lori Owens, Dean of Honors and Special Programs. "They bring not only outstanding academic credentials, but also leadership, creativity, and a genuine commitment to serving others. We look forward to seeing the difference they will make in our classrooms, on campus, and in the community throughout their time here."

Meet the 2025 Honors Scholarship Recipients:

Caden Gaskins: A graduate of Oxford High School, he was a Mu Alpha Theta tutor, a recipient of multiple Academic Excellence awards, and an active member of the Concert Choir and nationally recognized OHS Sound Show Choir. He was selected for All-State Choir and performed as a bass vocalist. Caden also served on the varsity bowling and tennis teams, earning the "Best Teammate" award twice for leadership and positivity. He was the school mascot, "Jack" the Yellow Jacket, and volunteered at events such as Special Olympics and Breakfast with Santa. Caden plans to major in Secondary Education with a focus in Mathematics.

Sydnee Lee: A graduate of Hartselle High School, she was a member of the National Honor Society and Mu Alpha Theta, earning Outstanding Student Awards in U.S. History and Band, and being recognized early on as the Top Math Student. A gifted trumpeter, she has performed in honor bands across Alabama and received numerous superior ratings at Solo and Ensemble. Through the Medical Academy, she completed coursework and an internship at Hartselle Family Medicine, and placed at state in CPR through HOSA. She has also volunteered through NTHS and Key Club. Sydnee plans to major in Nursing with a minor in Chemistry.

Gracie Mason: A graduate and valedictorian of Arab High School, she is an AP Scholar and a National First-Generation Recognition Program honoree. She placed 2nd in Journalism at the 2024 FBLA State Convention and has served as president and secretary of Future Teachers of Alabama and Membership Director of Junior Civitan. Gracie was also involved in Beta Club, Knights Leadership Academy, FBLA, DECA, and the Spanish Honors Society. She participated in junior varsity and co-ed softball and has volunteered at events such as Cookies with Santa and Cards for St. Jude. Gracie plans to major in Secondary Education with a focus in English Language Arts Education.

Dennis Mitchell: A graduate of Chilton County High School, he served as Drum Major for two years and principal trumpet for three in his school band, earning superior ratings and leading in statewide music events. He held leadership roles in Boy Scouts of America and the Order of the Arrow Brotherhood, and attended the 84th Alabama Boys State, where he was elected Director of the Alabama Medicare Agency and received the City 8 Citizenship Award. He is also a member of the National Honor Society and Beta Club. Dennis plans to major in Nursing.

Cara Pearce: A graduate of East Forsyth High School in Georgia, she is a Georgia Merit Scholar and a dedicated musician, serving as a section leader in her school's marching band. She received numerous band recognition awards and represented her peers on the Principal's Advisory Council. A lifelong Girl Scout and National Honor Society member, she has led community service initiatives through both organizations. Cara plans to major in Psychology.

Ansley Pope: A graduate of Piedmont High School, she is the 2024 Alabama HOSA State Champion in Veterinary Science and serves as president of her HOSA chapter. Ansley is a member of the ACT 30+ Club, Mu Alpha Theta, and the Student Government Association, and was selected as a delegate to Alabama Girls State. She served as captain of the varsity girls' wrestling team and participated in both concert and marching band. Her service includes 100+ hours of veterinary job-shadowing, administering sidewalk accessibility surveys through the University of Alabama's Walkability Project, and volunteering with HOSA blood drives and Relay for Life. Ansley plans to major in Biology and pursue a career in veterinary science.

Jocelyn Timothy: A graduate and valedictorian of Hope Christian School, she served as female chaplain on the student council and was an active member of Beta Club. She represented her school nationally in Bible quiz competitions and participated in yearbook, theater tech, and choir. She also performed in competitive choral groups and volunteered as a musician for nursing home residents. Jocelyn plans to major in Nursing.

Caleb Whiddon: A graduate of Handley High School, he served as Student Government Association President, Mu Alpha Theta Secretary, and National Honor Society Secretary. A varsity football and track team captain, he also served as the football team's media representative and varsity baseball team manager. He was selected to attend the 2024 Alabama Boys State and was a member of the Interact Club, Fellowship of Christian Students, and several school committees. Caleb has volunteered at community clean-up efforts, food drives, and literacy events. Caleb plans to major in Exercise Science and Wellness.

About the JSU Honors College: The Honors College is designed to engage students' intellectual curiosity and develop their skills to think and study independently, creating connections between students and their communities. The main component of the program is the offering of classes that focus on these educational aspects, helping students who are intellectually curious and self-motivated find ways to expand their ideas and perspectives on the world and their place in it. Honors College members have first priority to enroll in honors classes. Applying to and becoming a member of the Honors College includes additional benefits: small classes, special advisement, career planning, study away/study abroad and service opportunities. Upon completion of the program, Honors College members will receive special recognition at graduation. More information can be found at www.jsu.edu/honors.

About Jacksonville State University: Founded in 1883 as a state teachers' college, Jacksonville State University has grown from humble beginnings into the Alabama regional university with the highest percentage of accredited programs. Located in the Appalachian foothills midway between Birmingham and Atlanta, Jax State offers more than 150 courses of study, including over 40 online programs, at the undergraduate and graduate levels. To learn more, visit www.jsu.edu, call 1-800-231-JAX1, or e-mail jaxfacts@jsu.edu.