Graduate students receive MPE scholarships
Mississippi Professional Educators (MPE) has awarded 20 scholarships to graduate students to assist them in their studies. Eight of the $1,000 scholarships went to William Carey University students – the most of any university in the state:
- Laurin Bailey of Pearl, an assistant principal at Northside Elementary School.
- Melissa Bufkin of Laurel, federal programs director and early childhood, curriculum and gifted coordinator for the Jones County School District.
- Jessica Dalton of Pearl, special education teacher at Northside Elementary School.
- Amy Davis of Meridian, mathematics teacher at West Lauderdale Middle School.
- Tricia Stoll of Gulfport, instructional coach at Pass Road Elementary School.
- Jessica Stroo of Laurel, French and history teacher at Northeast Jones High School.
- Sara Stygles of Ellisville, a lead teacher and coordinator at Oak Grove Middle School.
- Julie Walley of Laurel, language arts teacher at East Jones Elementary School.
“Financial assistance for advanced studies is not as readily available as it may be for undergraduate studies, so our scholarships are often the deciding factor as to if a member will have the opportunity to pursue an advanced degree,” said MPE Executive Director Kelly Riley.
“These scholarships enable our members to strengthen their practice, which ultimately benefits their students. We wish Carey’s scholarship recipients the best as they pursue their dreams!”
Dr. Ben Burnett, dean of the WCU School of Education, said these scholarships support members of Mississippi Professional Educators as they build on their strengths through professional growth opportunities.
“We are extremely proud of the great work MPE does for education across the state. We are also very appreciative of their support of our graduate students as they continue their education to become better teachers and leaders for the children of Mississippi,” Burnett said.
For more information, visit
www.wmcarey.edu/education.