ELLISVILLE, MS – Determination, hard work, and a passion for helping others have paved the way for former Jones College Middle College student Sydney Ridgeway, who was recently named a recipient of the 2026 Bower-Delta State University Transfer Nursing Scholarship through the Phi Theta Kappa Foundation.
Ridgeway, a Laurel High School graduate and former Jones College Phi Theta Kappa member, was one of two Mississippi community college students selected for the prestigious scholarship, which provides $4,000 per semester, up to $20,000, to assist with educational expenses while pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Nursing at Delta State University.
For Ridgeway, the recognition represents more than financial assistance. It is a reflection of the perseverance that began long before she set foot on Delta State’s campus.
When Ridgeway transferred to Laurel High School during her junior year, she learned about the Middle College program, a partnership between Laurel High School and Jones College that allows eligible students to earn an associate degree while completing their high school diploma. Although her initial ACT score did not meet the program’s requirements, she refused to let that stand in the way of her ambitions.
She began taking dual-enrollment courses in the fall of 2024 while continuing to study and prepare for the ACT, determined to earn her place in the Middle College program and get a head start on her dream of becoming a nurse.
“It was not easy, and there were times when I felt discouraged, but I kept pushing myself because I knew what I was working toward,” Ridgeway said. “When I finally reached the score I needed, it showed me that determination and not giving up can open doors to opportunities you once thought were impossible.”
Her determination extended far beyond the classroom. While completing college coursework, Ridgeway remained actively involved at Laurel High School, serving on the Student Council and competing as a member of the school’s girls’ state championship basketball team. Despite balancing a demanding academic schedule with extracurricular activities, she graduated as salutatorian of Laurel High School’s Class of 2026.
Laurel School District Superintendent Dr. Michael Eubanks said Ridgeway’s ability to balance academics, athletics, and leadership reflects the character that has contributed to her many successes.
“Sydney is a model student and a class act who has represented Laurel High School and the Laurel School District extremely well,” Eubanks said. “We need individuals in healthcare who have strong character, good judgment, and a genuine heart for serving others. Sydney possesses those qualities, and I have no doubt she will do well.”
Jamie Williams, Jones College Dual Enrollment Coordinator, who worked with Ridgeway through the Middle College program, echoed these sentiments.
“She is incredibly sweet, hardworking, and driven,” Williams said. “It was impressive to see her balance being heavily involved in high school activities while still pushing herself academically and excelling as a Jones College student.”
Williams said Ridgeway’s accomplishments are a perfect example of the opportunities made possible through the partnership between Laurel High School and Jones College.
“I love seeing our Middle College students continue to succeed after graduation, and Sydney is a great example of what the partnership between Laurel High School and Jones College can help students accomplish,” she added.
Jones College is grateful for its continued partnership with the Laurel School District through the Middle College program, which lets eligible students earn their high school diploma and an associate degree at the same time. By letting students complete college coursework while still in high school, the program gives them a valuable head start in higher education and helps prepare them for a successful transition to university or in the career field.
Ridgeway’s accomplishments reflect the impact of that partnership and the opportunities made possible when educational institutions work hand-in-hand to support student success. Her journey from Laurel High School to Jones College and now Delta State University serves as an example of how the Middle College program can help students build a strong academic foundation while pursuing their long-term goals.
While Ridgeway credits the Middle College program with helping her develop her time management, communication, and study skills, she said one Jones College instructor had a particularly meaningful influence on her career path.
Eric Shows, PTK Advisor and her microbiology instructor, challenged her academically while helping her discover a deeper understanding of and appreciation for the nursing profession.
“Being in his class made me realize even more that nursing was my passion,” Ridgeway said. “Learning about different bacteria and viruses showed me that nursing is about much more than just wearing scrubs. It is about understanding the millions of different diseases and health conditions people experience and being able to care for and help them through those challenges.”
She said the experience also taught her the value of discipline, sacrifice, and believing in her abilities, lessons she continues to carry with her in nursing school.
Shows said Ridgeway’s recognition reflects her commitment to making the most of the opportunities available to her.
“This award recognizes the hard work she exhibited inside and outside the classroom, and it shows how she truly maximized the opportunities that were available to her as a PTK member and more broadly, as a Middle College participant at Jones,” Shows said. “There’s great value in what students can experience as Middle College participants, PTK members, and Bobcats, and Sydney’s success is a great example of that.”
Established through a partnership among the Bower Foundation, Delta State University and the Phi Theta Kappa Foundation, the Bower-Delta State University Transfer Nursing Scholarship helps Mississippi community college students overcome financial barriers while preparing for careers in nursing.
Ridgeway is currently pursuing her Bachelor of Science in Nursing through Delta State University’s Robert E. Smith School of Nursing. Following graduation, she plans to continue her education to become a nurse practitioner, allowing her to further pursue her passion for helping others through healthcare.
“Receiving this scholarship has shown me how far I have come at such a young age and has taught me that with hard work and determination, you can achieve your goals,” Ridgeway said. “This scholarship means so much to me because it gives me the opportunity to pursue my goals while helping reduce some of the financial burden of college.”
As she looks toward the future, Ridgeway hopes her journey will inspire other high school students to pursue opportunities such as dual enrollment and Middle College, even when that path requires sacrifice.
“Don’t ever let anyone tell you that you can’t accomplish something,” she said. “You will make it across the finish line, and when it is all over, you will be extremely proud of yourself and the person you have become.”
Her advice also includes making time to enjoy the experiences that come with being a student.
“Get involved, make memories, meet new people, and have fun while you can,” Ridgeway said. “Overall, whatever path you choose, be yourself, keep your faith, get involved, and prioritize your educational goals.”
For Ridgeway, her road to a career in nursing has already been marked by determination and resilience. While her journey has taken her from Laurel High School to Jones College and now Delta State University, the foundation she has built as a Bobcat continues to shape her path ahead, showing that the road to a brighter future begins at Jones.