Belhaven University is once again searching for aspiring writers to award a full-ride scholarship. In honor of well-known author and alumna Angie Thomas ’11, the University will present the Angie Thomas Writers Scholarship to one incoming creative writing major.
Now in its sixth year, the scholarship is named in honor of Thomas, author of New York Times best-selling novels The Hate U Give, On the Come Up, Concrete Rose, and Nic Blake and the Remarkables. “The Angie Thomas Writers Scholarship is such a financial blessing for students, and I’m deeply honored that Belhaven not only established it but chose to name it after me,” said Thomas.
Applicants will submit samples of their writing, and Belhaven will award one incoming freshman a full-ride scholarship covering tuition, room, and board for four years. Additional scholarships may be awarded to other applicants through the program.
Thomas believes the scholarship is helping young writers turn their dreams into reality. “To know that another young writer will be given the opportunity to grow their craft at a Christ-centered environment is powerful. That’s not just good news for writing but for the Kingdom impact it will have. I’m excited to see the talent and works that will come as a result of this scholarship.”
The first recipient, Imani Skipwith, was selected in 2020. “The scholarship has helped me tremendously in taking the financial burden off my parents and allowing me to explore my craft without extra stress,” Skipwith said. “I enjoyed studying creative writing at Belhaven and learned to develop my skill and healthy writing habits from the support of my professors.”
Chair and Professor of Creative Writing Dr. Randall Smith emphasized the transformative nature of the award. “This scholarship offers an unparalleled opportunity for four years of growth—not just as a writer, but as a person and artist,” Smith said. “Through our BFA in Creative Writing, talented storytellers and poets join a vibrant community rooted in a rich tradition of creative excellence.”
Scholarship applications are due November 14, 2025, and the winner will be announced during the week of December 15, 2025.
Interested students can visit gobelhaven.com/angie to learn more about requirements and apply today.
