Senior year has finally come for the graduating Class of 2026. This long-awaited school year brings with it a multitude of exciting activities and events, such as Senior Sunrise, the Homecoming Variety Show, Prom, and the big one, graduation! Although seniors get to experience many delightful events, they also have to endure some not-so-fun experiences. I am referring to the challenging task of applying for scholarships. There are countless scholarship opportunities for seniors, and applying for all of them is rather tedious work. However, the seniors here at Cass have worked hard to apply for as many scholarships as possible. One of the most prestigious scholarships offered in the state of Indiana is the Lily Endowment Scholarship, provided by Lilly Endowment Incorporated.
This award provides the winning student with a full tuition scholarship to any college or university in Indiana (CassCountyCf). Because of the prestige of this award, it is especially challenging to be named a finalist for the scholarship, let alone become the recipient. Last year, Lewis Cass High School was lucky enough to be the home of the recipient, now Lewis Cass Alumni, Nick Park. Nick is now studying Optical Engineering at Rose-Hulman University in Terre Haute, Indiana. This year, Lewis Cass has kept the streak alive by having yet another Lilly Endowment scholarship finalist. Lewis Cass senior, James (Michael) Myers, is among the seven highly esteemed finalists.
Michael Myers is an exceptionally bright student, ranked among the top ten of his graduating class, is an avid member in multiple student leadership boards and programs, and is committed to playing collegiate golf. The finalist selection process for this scholarship is not taken lightly, as these positions are only for the elite. Michael is no exception and fits into this highly intelligent group perfectly.
Being selected for this prestigious accomplishment is no easy feat. Upon applying for this scholarship, each applicant was asked to construct an essay about how the applicant is prepared to contribute to challenging the present and enriching the future. When asked what this essay preparation process was like, Michael stated, “Well, after not being able to find the application for 3 weeks, my turnaround was pretty quick. Mrs. Scott, Mr. Gibson, and I spent most of that time revising the essay.” Michael was frequently seen in the Media Center working fervently on perfecting his essay. It is evident that his essay captured the attention of the Lily Scholarship Board, as he was then named a finalist.
The next step for Micahel was the interview process. The seven finalists participated in an interview that took place on October 5, where the selection committee was able to get to know each finalist a little better. Myers said, “For the interview, the process was very quick as I had multiple mock interviews with many teachers willing to help prepare for my interview. Overall, I’m grateful for my Lewis Cass community for helping me every step of the way.” With all of the hard work completed, Michael and his fellow finalists will patiently await the results of who the 2026 Lily Scholar will be. This highly awaited news will not be announced until December 2025.
When asked what it would mean for him to be named the 2026 Lily Scholar, Michael stated, “Winning the Lily Endowment Scholarship would mean a lot for myself and my family. While the money is an added bonus, having the recognition from all of the hard work and dedication I have put into bettering myself and this community would really show its worth, and help me continue to better my community throughout the rest of my life.” Myers also said, “At the moment, I am committed to Hanover College, where I will major in political science and economics. If I am accepted into the University of Notre Dame, then my scholarship will be used to attain a political science degree. With these bachelor’s degree(s), I plan to attend law school and become an attorney, where I will eventually enter into the world of public service.”
According to these statements, it is clear that Michael has a bright future ahead of him. Lily Scholar or not, Michael has made the Lewis Cass Community very proud. He demonstrates what it means to be a King, and it shows through his academic and athletic achievements. Congratulations Michael! The Kings’ Courier Staff wishes you the best of luck!
