Contact: Sammy McDavid
Four high school seniors from Hinds, Lee and Oktibbeha counties are the first to be named G.V. "Sonny" Montgomery Scholars at Mississippi State University.
They include Meade Hartfield of Clinton, Drew McNeil of Tupelo, Brad Reeves of Jackson, and Kristen Tomlinson of Starkville. Hartfield attends Clinton High School; McNeil, Tupelo High School; Reeves, Jackson Academy; and Tomlinson, Starkville Academy.
The scholars program honors the recently retired 3rd District congressman from Meridian whose public service career spanned more than 40 years. A 1943 Mississippi State graduate, Montgomery gained national prominence for leadership on behalf of military veterans; the 1984 Montgomery G.I. Bill was named by Congress to honor his role as its author and chief proponent. Before going to Washington, D.C., he served a decade in the Mississippi Senate.
"Mr. Montgomery is one of Mississippi's major contributions this century to our national leadership," said scholarship selection committee chair Bill Foster. "We feel these Montgomery Scholars have the desire and skills to continue this legacy and become 'Sonnys' of the 21st century."
Selection for the $8,000 awards requires an American College Test composite score of 28 or higher (maximum score: 36) and demonstrated academic and leadership achievements.
The scholars program is made possible by contributions of colleagues and supporters who took part in a Washington tribute last year for the departing 15-term congressman who first was elected in 1966.