Six Wayne County high school seniors are one step closer to receiving a four-year, full-tuition college scholarship after being named finalists for the 2027 Lilly Endowment Community Scholarship.

The Wayne County Foundation announced the six finalists on October 29. They were selected from a pool of 72 applicants representing high schools across the county.

The 2027 finalists are:

• Mackenzie Bane — Hagerstown High School

• Jonah Cornett — Centerville High School

• Kevlei Moore — Hagerstown High School

• Cale Schmitz — Hagerstown High School

• Sophia Soper — Centerville High School

• Hannah Stearley — Richmond High School

The Foundation's selection committee independently evaluated applications through a blind review process, considering academic performance, community service, extracurricular activities, achievements, financial need, work experience and leadership potential.

“We received an impressive collection of applications from students with stellar backgrounds and achievements,” said Brian Schleeper, the Foundation's Director of Nonprofit Engagement. “It was clear why the six finalists rose to the top.”

Two students will ultimately be selected as Wayne County's 2027 Lilly Endowment Community Scholars.

Recipients receive a four-year, full-tuition scholarship to attend an eligible public or private nonprofit college or university in Indiana. The scholarship also provides up to $900 annually for required textbooks and equipment.

The selection committee's recommendations will be submitted to Independent Colleges of Indiana, Inc. for final review and approval. The two scholarship recipients are expected to be announced in December 2026.

Since the program began in 1998, 61 Wayne County students have been named Lilly Endowment Community Scholars.

For more information about the Wayne County Foundation and its scholarship programs, visit forwardwaynecounty.org.