SEMO announces President's Scholarship winners for 2026 academic year

Five high school seniors in Missouri were announced Tuesday, March 11, as the recipients of Southeast Missouri State University's President's Scholarship for the 2026 academic year.

Isabella Pittman of Dexter High School, Kaylee Horn of Marquette High School in Chesterfield, Samantha Taylor of Parkway Central High School in Chesterfield, Theo Rickert of Belleville West High School and Simon Lanter of Springfield High School received the award. In a news release from the university, SEMO president Carlos Vargas said the five scholar recipients "embody the Will to Do."

"They have earned success in their academics and extracurriculars, and we are excited for them to find continued success at SEMO,” Vargas said in the release.

The scholarship is considered SEMO's "most prestigious award" and is renewable for students who meet the required criteria for a total value of up to $43,000. More than 100 high school seniors interview for the scholarship annually.

“Hearing these students’ stories each year is truly inspiring,” Lenell Hahn, SEMO’s director of Admissions, said in the release. “Their dedication, leadership and achievements showcase the passion and drive that make them a perfect fit for the Southeast community.”

For more information about SEMO's President's Scholarship, visit https://presidentsscholarship.semoadmissions.org.