The University of Mississippi announced at Jackson Academy on Thursday that senior Willis Thigpen is a recipient of the Robert M. Carrier Scholarship. The award is considered the most prestigious offered by the university, according to Jackson Academy College Counselor Amy Bush. The Carrier Scholarship awards $40,000 over four years of attendance.
Willis is among the generations of Thigpens to earn a significant scholarship for academic excellence at Ole Miss. His father, Calvin Thigpen, M.D., ’94, was a University of Mississippi Newman Scholar, and his grandfather, Tate Thigpen, M.D., received the Carrier scholarship in the early 60s.
Willis balances athletics, arts, being the school mascot, and more by taking it one day at a time. His advice to his younger self is to enjoy the moment. An aspiring doctor, his favorite subject is chemistry.
He hopes to be remembered at JA as someone who made a positive impact. “I want to leave a legacy of helping others and giving back to the community as much as possible. I try to be kind to others every day and brighten people’s days by having a constant positive attitude and a friendly face,” he said.
Mississippi residents who are entering college as first-year students are eligible for consideration for the Robert M. Carrier Scholarship. They must demonstrate exceptional academic and leadership qualities. Once at Ole Miss, they are required to maintain certain standards to retain the scholarship.
Congratulations, Willis!
