Alabama Wharf Awards $10K Scholarship for Sixth Year

The Wharf in Orange Beach is betting on students again this year with a scholarship that could change someone's future.

Applications opened January 26 for the sixth annual Wharf Scholarship, a $10,000 award for graduating high school seniors in Baldwin County, Alabama. The program recognizes students who shine in academics, give back to their communities, and show strong leadership potential.

The scholarship is part of The Wharf's Anchor Campaign, which supports Gulf Coast communities through donations and partnerships. Any Baldwin County senior attending public, private, or virtual school can apply.

The program's track record tells a promising story. Since 2021, nearly 300 students have applied, showcasing the talent growing up along Alabama's coast.

Past winners have gone on to impressive pursuits across the country. Kamiya Watson, the first recipient in 2021, now studies at the University of Alabama at Birmingham. Denver Persinger took the 2022 award to the University of Denver, while 2023 winner Kaysheri Haffner is studying law at the University of Florida.

Last year's winner, Cami Wiles from Orange Beach High School, is now at Auburn University pursuing a double major in Commercial Music and Marketing. The scholarship also includes a $2,500 runner-up award, added in 2025 to recognize more deserving students.

The Ripple Effect

What makes this scholarship special is how it strengthens an entire community. By investing in local students, The Wharf helps keep bright minds connected to the Gulf Coast, even as they pursue education elsewhere.

"The scholarship aims to empower tomorrow's leaders, educators, and entrepreneurs," said Mary Kate Lantrip, Public Relations and Social Media Manager at The Wharf. The program shows what happens when businesses view their success as tied to their neighbors' futures.

These students return home during breaks, share their experiences, and often come back after graduation to build careers. Each scholarship creates a ripple that touches family, friends, teachers, and eventually the whole region.

Students can find application details, eligibility requirements, and deadlines at the official Wharf website.