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2026 Scholarship Winners
We are thrilled to announce that five outstanding students have been selected as the
Madison J. Smallwood Scholarship recipients!
This scholarship was created to honor Madison’s legacy and to support students who value friendship and live by the motto: "In a world where you can be anything, BE KIND!"
These students exemplify this spirit each and every day, and we are proud to celebrate their achievements.
🎓 Scholarship Recipients
1st Place – Emma Adolph - Awarded $2,025
2nd Place – Steven Rude
3rd Place (in no particular order) – Dylan Miller, Gracie Tilton, & Ema Runella
We are incredibly proud of all five scholars and look forward to seeing the meaningful impact they will make in the years ahead.
Warm regards,
Be Kind Like Madison Board Members
Lori, Shannah, Emily P., Emily T., & Bella
DISCLOSURE: Emily Tilton did not participate in the review, evaluation, or selection process for the 2026 scholarship applications.
Scholarships
Madison valued her friendships and lived by the motto, “In a world where you can be anything, BE KIND.” Please tell us in 650 words or less how friendships and kindness have impacted you. Tell us how you can continue the legacy of Madison’s motto. The essay should explain how kindness comes into play in your daily life, a friendship or life change you have seen as a result of kindness, or how someone’s kindness towards you, maybe changed life for you.
Scholarship(s) selection is done anonymously with a numerical system versus name. This is being compiled outside of the MJS Foundation Board of Directors and given without any personal identification such as first and last name. Board members will vote, depending on donations and budget they will award scholarships paid directly to the winner or institution on behalf of the recipient. First place will receive $2,025, additional amounts will vary between $500 ~ $1,000.
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MJS Foundation Scholarship Eligibility Criteria-Monroe High School Class of 2026 Graduate attending a post-secondary college or trade program after graduation.
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Scholarship will be awarded based on eligibility requirements stated above and your essay submission defining how Madison’s motto “In a world where you can be anything, BE KIND” has impacted your life. This scholarship is intended to help alleviate a financial burden on the MHS Senior whose essay is chosen to pursue post secondary education
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All submissions must include the following:
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First and Last Name
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Personal Email
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Address
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Cell number
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Potential Major or Program
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Name of College/School plan to attend
NOTE: Omission of any of the above information will eliminate your application eligibility!
It is IMPORTANT that you use your PERSONAL EMAIL account and
NOT your SCHOOL ACCOUNT.
Please check back for updated 2027 submission guidelines and deadline dates.
• Click the Application Form button to complete and submit online.
2025 Scholarship Winners
1st Place – Wesley Heinzelman - Awarded $2,025
2nd Place – Samuel McCausland
3rd Place – Caleb Mann
Additional Recipients (in no particular order): Joey Brown, Benjamin Dirksen, Madelynn Frazier
Natalie Long, Carissa Pitsch, & Suella Staton
