ST. LOUIS, Sept. 08, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Missouri Scholarship & Loan Foundation (MSLF), founded by MOHELA to help make higher education more accessible and affordable for Missouri families, has awarded $940,250 to 223 Missouri college students through the Purdy Emerging Leaders Scholarship for the 2026–2027 academic year.

This year’s scholarship recipients include 108 new awardees and 115 renewal recipients, representing 35 eligible Missouri colleges and universities across the state. The institutions enrolling the largest number of award recipients are Missouri State University, Drury University, Missouri University of Science and Technology, the University of Missouri – Columbia, and the University of Missouri – Kansas City.

“The Purdy Emerging Leaders Scholarship reflects Allan Purdy’s belief that higher education transforms lives,” said Melissa Findley, executive director of the Missouri Scholarship & Loan Foundation. “The 223 scholarship recipients this year embody the leadership and commitment to service that Mr. Purdy championed throughout his career. We are proud to invest in these exceptional students as they continue making a difference on their campuses and across Missouri.”

“Few individuals have had a greater impact on educational opportunity in Missouri than Allan Purdy, whose commitment to student success shaped institutions and programs that continue to benefit generations of Missourians,” said Scott Giles, CEO of MOHELA and MSLF’s board chair. The students receiving this scholarship carry forward that legacy through their leadership, service, and making a positive impact in their communities.

Honoring Allan Walker Purdy’s Legacy

The Purdy Emerging Leaders Scholarship is named in honor of Allan Walker Purdy, a visionary leader born in 1914 near Macon, Missouri. The first in his family to attend a four-year college, Purdy went on to become the University of Missouri – Columbia’s first director of scholarships and student financial aid. He later served as the founding president of the National Association of Student Financial Aid Administrators and spent two decades on the governing board of the Missouri Higher Education Loan Authority (MOHELA). His lifelong commitment to expanding access to higher education continues to inspire the mission of MSLF and the Purdy Emerging Leaders program.

About the Program

The Purdy Emerging Leaders Scholarship is a private scholarship providing up to $5,000 per academic year to outstanding Missouri college students who demonstrate leadership, character, academic achievement, and financial need. The program supports both traditional students who enroll immediately after high school and adult learners returning to complete their degrees. Recipients are emerging leaders on their campuses and in their communities—students with a vision for their future and the work ethic to bring it to life.

Eligibility requirements include Missouri residency, full-time enrollment, satisfactory academic progress, a cumulative GPA of 2.50 or higher, and a recommendation from an instructor, advisor, supervisor, or community leader. Financial need, including SAI and unmet need, is also considered.

The scholarship is renewable for up to three years, provided funding is available and recipients maintain a cumulative GPA of 2.50 or higher.

For more information about the Purdy Emerging Leaders Scholarship or MSLF’s other programs, visit moslf.org.

Emerging Leaders Share Their Stories

This year’s recipients described how the scholarship is supporting their education and preparing them to lead in their communities and in their professions:

“As a first-generation college student… I cannot fully articulate what this scholarship means to me. Receiving this scholarship alleviates some of the financial burdens of higher education and allows me to keep my focus on my educational and professional goals… I am very thankful to be a Purdy Emerging Leaders Scholar.” — Marissa W., St. Louis

“I am honored to be recognized and sincerely appreciate your support and investment in my professional growth and leadership development. This award will be put to good use as I continue pursuing opportunities to learn, grow, and strengthen my leadership skills.” — Nathan F., Smithville

“Financial stress is something I carry with me every single day, and this scholarship has taken so much of that weight off my shoulders. I feel like I can truly focus on learning, growing, and becoming the best student and person I can be.” — Nabaa A., Ballwin

“Receiving this scholarship felt incredibly special and gave me a lot of encouragement that all of the hard work, sacrifices, and late nights have been worth it. I am incredibly grateful for the support and recognition.” — Haydn F., Liberty

“This scholarship not only helps me accomplish my academic goals, but it also inspires me to continue being a leader on campus.” — Mary L., St. Louis

About Missouri Scholarship & Loan Foundation

MSLF is dedicated to providing innovative financial solutions and career development opportunities for Missouri students, particularly those with financial need, to prepare for and successfully complete their higher education journeys.

About MOHELA

MOHELA is a non-profit, governmental corporation with 45 years of experience and a track record of providing exceptional customer service to the borrowers it serves. MOHELA plays an essential role in the student loan ecosystem, providing support and assistance for 7.8 million borrowers.

Media Contact: media@mohela.com


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