SHS Senior Blake Ramsey named 2026 Lilly Scholar

Written by Monika Spaulding

Senior Blake Ramsey said it was a complete surprise when he found out he had been selected as the 2026 Lilly Scholar. 

“I remember opening the letter and reading it out loud,” he said. “Not even 10 seconds later, my mom and I were screaming in excitement. I couldn’t believe that I had actually won the Lilly Scholarship, and even now it is difficult to fully grasp how lucky I am.”

In recent years, one senior from each county has been selected as a recipient. It is a competitive process of application, including paperwork and in-person interviews. According to their website, Lilly Scholars receive:

• Full-tuition, required fees and book stipend for four years. (Does not pay room, board or travel expenses.)

• Recipients may attend any public or private, Indiana four-year college or university accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.

• Applicants must have a high school diploma from an Indiana high school accredited by the State Board of Education or by a national or regional accreditation agency that is recognized by the State Board of Education.

• Applicants must be residents of the state of Indiana.

• Selection criteria, selection procedures and application due dates vary by county.

• Recipients must pursue undergraduate study in a baccalaureate program on a full-time basis.

• 147 scholarships are awarded annually.

“To me, being a Lilly Scholar means being given building blocks for a solid education in Indiana, followed by a pathway leading to a career that ultimately will help us give back to our communities in Indiana and shape the future of our residents,” said Ramsey.

His plans are to attend either the University of Notre Dame or Purdue University to study and major in computer science.

“My future career goal is to be a software engineer or an artificial intelligence engineer,” he said. “I have always loved programming and I hope I can use it to make a difference in the future.”

While there are many teachers at SHS who have been an inspiration for Ramsey, he said one teacher that stands out to him is J.D. Wade-Swift. 

“I had Mr. Wade-Swift as a teacher for three years in the area of computer science,” said Ramsey. “He is always happy to help students with any questions or problems. His classes were by far my favorite and most enjoyable ones.”

Wade-Swift shared the same sentiment in having Ramsey as a student. “He is an exceptional student that every teacher dreams about having,” he said. “He is a self-starter and is intrinsically motivated. He always tries to achieve a higher standard than anybody sets for him. To this day it amazes me how hard he works no matter the challenge.”

As a senior, Ramsey’s advice to underclassmen is to explore as many opportunities as they can. 

“There are so many opportunities out there that are available and that anyone can utilize to be successful,” he said. “I also highly encourage underclassmen to join various clubs and/or sports, as this is the way they can find out what they truly enjoy doing.”

Ramsey has been involved in various activities while in high school, including: National Honor Society and hiking club. He also has been a four-year member of the wrestling team and plans to run track this year. While in high school, he lettered in cross-country, soccer, track and wrestling.

“Blake is more than deserving of the Lilly Scholarship,” said Wade-Swift. “Not only is he being recognized for his dedication and perseverance, but also it supports him to use this opportunity to achieve long-term success and make meaningful contributions in the future.”

Ramsey is looking forward to this next chapter and thankful to those who helped him get there.

“I am extremely grateful for this scholarship, as it will help me achieve my educational goals, which in turn, will help me give back to our Indiana communities,” said Ramsey. “I want to thank my parents, teachers and counselors who made this opportunity possible through their support. I appreciate this opportunity to make a difference, and I am truly honored and proud to be a Lilly Scholar.”

Ramsey receiving the scholarship is also a reflection of the education he received at Salem Community Schools. In the 28 years that the scholarship has been awarded, Salem High School has had the Lilly Scholarship recipient 17 times.