Newest cohort of Elizabeth McRae scholars is named following Scholars Day 2026
The Elizabeth McRae Scholarship is the most competitive and generous award incoming Bobcats can earn, and on Scholars Day each year, participating students compete for the prize. The scholarship, which is given in honor of one of the college’s namesakes, offers full tuition for four years of undergraduate study.
Scholars Day is an annual event where prospective students who meet the qualifications for the college’s Honors Program are invited to compete for both the Elizabeth McRae Scholarship and other merit-based scholarship funds.
This year’s Elizabeth McRae scholars are Mia Adkins of Maryville, Tennessee; Margaret Lorms of Holly Springs, North Carolina; and Claire McDonald of Naples, Florida.
“Being able to attend this school means a lot to me, and I’m excited to continue growing academically, athletically, and personally while making the most of everything this experience has to offer. I'm excited to use what I learn to give back and make a positive impact in my community.”
— Mia Adkins
“During my college hunt I was told over and over that ‘when you know, you know,’ and I knew as soon as I stepped on campus that Lees-McRae is the place for me. I’m looking forward to building a culture of celebrating each other, not only in the Honors College community, but also on the field as a lacrosse player. I cannot wait to see what I can learn about life from both my professors and my peers.”
— Margaret Lorms
"I truly cannot articulate what [this scholarship] means to me. This scholarship made it financially possible for me to attend a school that felt like home from the moment I opened my acceptance letter. As an aspiring wildlife veterinarian, I believe this school has the best program to help me pursue my passions and career goals. I cannot wait to begin my studies at Lees-McRae, and to bring my bearded dragon with me!"
— Claire McDonald
This year, there were also 17 recipients of the Jim and Kay Lauritsen Endowed Scholarship, which offers a partial scholarship to students entering the Honors Program. This year’s recipients are as follows:
- Jacob Skipper
- Allie Hayton
- Delaney Brown
- Aubrey Wood
- Aydric Spivey
- Hadassah Mills
- Polly Nantz
- Victor Peterson
- Kamila Albornoz
- Hadleigh Houser
- Adelay Rester
- Carsyn Roberts
- Lauren McMullen
- Leslie Olwin
- Lauren Hammer
- Houston Jaramillo
- Avery Brasch
