Mississippi Rural Scholars Programs

08/25/2026

A new school year means another step closer to serving rural Mississippi!

The Mississippi Rural Physicians Scholarship Program recently had the pleasure of celebrating our scholars during our annual scholarship ceremony. These future physicians have demonstrated a commitment not only to their medical education, but also to making a meaningful difference in rural communities across our state.

We were honored to welcome Katherine Pannel, DO, FAPA, as our guest speaker. Her words helped mark this special occasion as we recognized our scholars and celebrated the journey ahead of them.

And what better way to commemorate the moment than with a BIG check? Our scholars had the chance to proudly hold a check bearing their name, a fun reminder of the support behind them as they continue working toward their dreams of becoming physicians.

To our MRPSP scholars: congratulations! We are proud of the dedication, perseverance, and passion you bring to your journey. Here’s to another successful year of learning, growing, and preparing to make an impact in rural Mississippi!

08/25/2026

School is back in session!

That means it’s back to the grind for the scholars of the Dr. G. Norris Howell Rural Dentists Scholarship Program!

We recently celebrated our scholars with a special scholarship ceremony recognizing their hard work, achievements, and commitment to improving access to dental care in rural Mississippi. We were honored to welcome Dr. Mary Huxford, Chairperson of the Dr. G. Norris Howell Rural Dentists Scholarship Program Commission, as our keynote speaker.

Of course, no scholarship ceremony is complete without a BIG check! Our scholars had the opportunity to proudly show off their achievements—and really, who wouldn’t want the chance to hold a giant check with their name on it?

Congratulations on another year, scholars! Your dedication to your education and to the future of rural Mississippi continues to make us proud. We can’t wait to see all that you accomplish this year!

08/18/2026

Be sure to read about the great things happening with one of our scholars!

For Morgan Nelson, the path to medical school included pageant stages, dance performances, academic excellence and a commitment to serving others. Now, the incoming UMMC medical student is bringing those experiences with her as she pursues her dream of becoming a physician.

Don't miss her story: https://umc.edu/news/News_Articles/2026/08/Morgan-Nelson.html

06/26/2026

🦷✨ Smile for the Camera! The Future of Rural Dentistry Is Bright! ✨🦷

Dental school is just around the corner for these incredible scholars in the Dr. G. Norris Howell Rural Dentists Scholarship Program!

During their Dental Encounter at the UMMC School of Dentistry, our undergraduate scholars gained invaluable insight into what it takes to become a dentist—from navigating the dental school application process to developing hands-on clinical skills they’ll use throughout their careers.

Throughout the experience, scholars connected with deans, faculty members, current dental students, and practicing dentists who shared their knowledge, advice, and personal journeys into the profession. These meaningful conversations gave students a firsthand look at the opportunities and challenges that come with pursuing a career in dentistry.

The learning didn’t stop in the classroom! Scholars rolled up their sleeves and practiced real-world dental techniques, including suturing, drilling, placing fillings, and more. Thanks to the program’s intimate class size, each scholar received personalized instruction and one-on-one guidance as they built their confidence and sharpened their skills.

One of the highlights of the day was sharing lunch with current dental students, where scholars had the opportunity to ask candid questions about preparing for the DAT, applying to dental school, managing coursework, and maintaining balance throughout their educational journey.

This experience provided our scholars with opportunities that many aspiring dental students only dream of. We are incredibly proud of all they have accomplished and can’t wait to see where their journeys lead next.

Join us in wishing these future rural dentists the very best as they continue working toward their dreams. We’re rooting for each and every one of you! 🦷💙

06/22/2026

🩺✨ Medical Encounter #3: Application Season Is Here! ✨🩺

For this group of scholars, Medical Encounter #3 marked an exciting milestone in their journey through the Mississippi Rural Physicians Scholarship Program. Held on the campus of the University of Mississippi Medical Center (UMMC), this encounter focused on preparing scholars for one of the most important next steps in their careers—applying to medical school.

Throughout the event, scholars gained valuable insight from knowledgeable presenters representing UMMC and William Carey University. They also had the opportunity to hear firsthand experiences from current medical students and former program scholars, offering encouragement, advice, and a glimpse into what lies ahead.

The learning didn’t stop there! Scholars toured the Mississippi Center for Emergency Services and participated in hands-on demonstrations and activities in UMMC’s Simulation Lab, where they experienced medical training in action.

From application preparation to real-world clinical exposure, this encounter provided countless opportunities for growth, learning, and inspiration. We are incredibly proud of all they have accomplished and can’t wait to see what the future holds.

Join us in wishing these future physicians the best of luck as they begin the medical school application process! 🎉

Mississippi Rural Physicians loading… ⏳👨‍⚕️👩‍⚕️💙

06/16/2026

🌟A Warm Welcome to Our Newest Scholars!🌟

Last week, we were excited to welcome a new cohort of undergraduate scholars to the Mississippi Rural Physicians Scholarship Program! 🎉

During their first of four Medical Encounters, which was held at the University of Mississippi Medical Center, these future Rural Physicians had the opportunity to learn more about program expectations, begin preparing for the MCAT, and explore the path toward a career in medicine.

The experience wasn’t just informative, it was hands-on, too! Scholars participated in exciting activities, including learning how to apply fiberglass casts, giving them a glimpse into the practical skills used in patient care every day. 🩺💙

We are thrilled to support and mentor these talented students as they work toward becoming the next generation of physicians serving Mississippi’s rural communities. Join us in congratulating and encouraging them as they begin this incredible journey! 👏✨

🩺🎓💙

06/10/2026

NOW HIRING: Program Administrator - MS Rural Physicians and Dental Scholarship Programs (Part Time)

The Mississippi Rural Scholars Programs is hiring a PART-TIME Program Administrator. The Project Administrator is responsible for coordinating and managing the daily administrative operations of a program or project in a designated area.

Visit umc.edu/careers to learn more and apply!

04/29/2026

Mark your calendars for this upcoming event!

"Preparing for Practice" is an event where experienced professionals will share insights and answer questions on employment contracts, practice locations, negotiations, and other key topics to assist current UMMC and WCU medical students in preparing for the next step in their careers.

The in-person event will be held on Thursday, May 14th, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. in the University of Mississippi School of Medicine, SM 122. Current UMMC and WCU medical students may join online via Webex: https://umc.webex.com/umc/j.php?MTID=me394d8bbe705010d9b3e3df99d90be57

For more information, contact the MRPSP and MRDSP office by phone at (601) 815-9022 or by email, [email protected].

04/21/2026

GOODMAN, Miss. — Lennie Kate Wood of Winona, a student on the Holmes Community College Goodman Campus, has been accepted into the Mississippi Rural Physicians Scholarship Program (MRPSP) at the University of Mississippi School of Medicine. This acceptance secures her a reserved…