Mississippi Student Laniya Williams Wins $500 Scholarship

Laniya Williams walked into a Warren County Board of Supervisors meeting on May 18 and left with a $500 check and a powerful message about her future. The local student earned the 2026 County Employee Scholarship from the Mississippi Association of Supervisors as Warren County's recipient.

"Students hold our county's future in their hands, and winners like Laniya Williams convince me that we are in great hands," said Board President Dr. Kelle Barfield. The sentiment captures what makes this award special: it's not just about money, but about recognizing the potential of young people connected to county service.

Laniya's scholarship came through her family's connection to Warren County employment. The program specifically supports dependents of current or retired county employees, acknowledging the dedication these families bring to local government.

The Ripple Effect

This year, the Mississippi Association of Supervisors awarded $37,000 in scholarships to students across all 82 counties in the state. That's real money going directly into educational opportunities for dozens of families who serve their communities through county work.

Derrick Surrette, executive director of MAS, described the scholarship program as "one way that our association can give back to the employees of our counties." The organization plans to expand the program even further next year, reaching more students and families.

The Mississippi Association of Supervisors has spent nearly a century strengthening county government since its founding in 1928. By investing in the next generation through scholarships, they're building a pipeline of educated young people who understand public service from the inside.

For Laniya and her fellow scholarship winners, this $500 represents more than tuition assistance—it's recognition that their families' public service matters and their own potential is worth investing in.