Scholarships

Investing in the Next Generation

At T. Ferrell Wiley Ministries, we believe education is a powerful tool for transformation. Our Scholarship Initiative was created to support and encourage high school seniors in Mississippi as they pursue higher education and step into the future God has prepared for them.

Why We Give?

This scholarship is more than financial assistance, it’s an investment in the future of our youth, our communities, and God’s Kingdom. By sowing into the lives of students today, we believe we are cultivating leaders who will inspire, mentor, and create change for generations to come.

Who Can Apply?

The scholarship is open to Mississippi high school seniors who:

Application Requirements

All applicants must submit the following:

Applicant must be a U.S. citizen and a resident of a county in Mississippi. Applicants may attend any local high school but must be an active member in a non-profit organization with preference to a church affiliation. Must include a letter of verification from the organization secretary on their letterhead.
Applicant must be a graduating high school senior with a cumulative 2.5 GPA or higher. Please note that the GPA score must be printed on the official transcript.
Applicant must provide an application, official high school transcript (All transcripts must have an official seal on it), official ACT or SAT Score (Printouts will not be accepted unless it is signed and notarized by your School Representative/Counselor}, photo, and proof of acceptance to a two year/four-year institution of higher learning or trade school.
Applicant must type a two (2) page double spaced, 12 pt. font Times New Roman essay with a 1” margin to include information about yourself, the name of the school you graduated from, your educational goals, the name of the college/trade school you will be attending and your professional aspirations. Tell how this award can help you achieve these goals and why you should receive this award.
Applicants must provide two letters of recommendation. One must be from a community/church leader. References must include a telephone number, be signed, and placed in a sealed envelope.
All information can be mailed to: (Hand delivered scholarship packets will not be accepted.)
T. Ferrell –Wiley Ministries
Post Office Box 62
New Albany, MS 38652

Important Dates

Application Deadline: All applications must be postmarked by June 30, 2025.

Award Notification: Scholarships will be awarded upon confirmation of admission.

How to Apply?

Download the application form below, complete all requirements, and mail your packet to:

T. Ferrell Wiley Ministries
P.O. Box 62
New Albany, MS 38652

Where are they Now?

Past Scholarship Recipients

Joseph Rutherford

Hey, my name is Joseph Rutherford. I’m currently working in Operations for the Rural Super Rural business line of Amazon. I’ve worked for Amazon for the last two years now and recently got married to my wife, Ava Rutherford, and got a house. Outside of work, I’m involved with my local chapter of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc., I’m a part of a bowling league, and I’m helping lead the Strikes 4 Strokes foundation.

Ross Rutherford, Jr.

Hello! My name is Ross Rutherford, Jr. I’m a senior at Mississippi State University. I am projected to graduate in December with a Bachelor’s of Science in chemistry with a concentration in Pre-Pharmacy. I am currently preparing myself for my future as I seek job opportunities in my field of study so I can jumpstart my career.

Janiya Rutherford

Hello! My name is Janiya Rutherford and I am a senior at Mississippi State University. I am majoring in psychology with a minor in sociology. I recently completed a summer job in Mount Ida, Arkansas called Camp Ozark where I helped kids have an incomparable camp experience while deepening their relationship with Jesus Christ. Right now I am getting prepared to apply for graduate school and finishing off my last school year strong.

Dakoyta Lesure

Dakoyta Lesure is currently a dedicated and multifaceted student at Jackson State University, where she excels academically and contributes to campus life in numerous leadership roles. She is a proud member of the MADDRAMA performance troupe, bringing stories to life on the stage. As an SGA Representative for Transfer Ambassadors, she supports and guides fellow transfer students in their transition to university life. She also serves as a Service Ambassador, emphasizing community engagement, and holds the position of Public Relations Officer for the 1400 Mass Gospel Choir. Her academic excellence is further highlighted by her placement on the Dean’s List, reflecting outstanding scholastic achievement.

Anticipated to graduate in December 2025 with a Bachelor of Science degree, Dakoyta plans to continue her educational journey with a master’s degree, followed by medical school—as her ultimate goal is to become a dermatologist. Her passion for leadership extends beyond the university; she recently became the female representative for the Southern region on the International Youth Advisory Council of the Church of God in Christ Youth Department. Through this role, she serves as a liaison and advocate for youth voices within her faith community, driving initiatives that enrich spiritual development and community service.