January 23, 2020 (Jackson, Miss.) - Belhaven University announced the new Angie Thomas Writers Scholarship program, designed to help young aspiring writers. One incoming creative writing major will receive a full-ride scholarship, while other top applicants will receive additional awards.
These scholarships are named in honor of Belhaven alumna Angie Thomas '11, author of New York Times best-selling novels On the Come Up and The Hate U Give. The Hate U Give was developed into a major motion picture from Fox 2000, and starred Amandla Stenberg. Thomas is also working as a producer on the film version of On the Come Up.
“It means the world to me to have a scholarship in my honor and to know that Belhaven has this level of pride for me,” said Thomas. “Even more than that, it's incredible to know that this could play a huge role in a young writer's life. That alone is an honor.”
Thomas is encouraging students to apply and believes there are many young writers who need the extra support to make their dreams of authorship a reality. “Let's face it - financial hardship is a huge obstacle for so many young people when it comes to college; it was one for me,” said Thomas. “This scholarship will remove that stress for some young person and allow them to put more of their energy into their studies. I want to encourage students to go for it! Don't let your fears hold you back and dictate your life. Belhaven could be the place for you, so why not give your future a shot?”
“Angie has shown us all that a voice of significance can reach and change the world,” said Belhaven University President Dr. Roger Parrott.“I can't wait to see which Belhaven student is next to become a writer of distinction.”
Belhaven will award one incoming freshman a full-ride scholarship, which will cover tuition, room and board at the University for four years. Other applicants may receive scholarships as part of the program.
Scholarship applications are due March 1, 2020 and the winner will be selected on April 1, 2020. Interested students can visit gobelhaven.com/angie to learn more about the requirements and apply today.
“This scholarship provides a door to four years of personal and creative growth,” said Chair and Professor of Creative Writing Dr. Randall Smith. He advised and taught Thomas when she studied at Belhaven. Smith anticipates meeting the scholarship winners and adds, “In our writing program, we emphasize participating in an established and welcoming community of gifted writers who want to help each other grow as writers. We will work hard to help them define and pursue their unique mission, calling, and career in life.”
About Angie Thomas
Angie Thomas was born, raised, and still lives in Jackson, Mississippi. A former teen rapper, she holds a BFA in creative writing from Belhaven University. Her award-winning, acclaimed debut novel,The Hate U Give,is a #1New York Times best seller and major motion picture from Fox 2000, starring Amandla Stenberg and directed by George Tillman, Jr. Her second novel,On the Come Up,is on sale now.
About Belhaven University's Creative Writing Program
Belhaven University is the only Christian university in the U.S. offering a Bachelor of Fine Arts in creative writing and one of only 26 undergraduate institutions offering such a degree. The University is one of only 36 institutions in the nation accredited in all four areas of the arts - art, music, theater, and dance.
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