DBU Student Lauren Fricke Recognized with the 2026 Sumners Foundation Scholarship

This year, Dallas Baptist University student Lauren Fricke was selected as a 2026 Sumners Scholar, receiving a prestigious $40,000 scholarship awarded by The Sumners Foundation of Irving, Texas.

Each year, the Sumners Foundation recognizes students who are actively serving and making an impact in their community. Alongside community involvement, the foundation looks at each candidate's academic excellence, civic engagement, leadership potential, and a desire to strengthen democracy.

"Our Scholars are selected from the very best students at colleges and universities after a rigorous interview process," said Scott Higginbotham, Board Chairman of the Sumners Foundation. "To be selected as a Sumners Scholar is an honor that will remain with the Scholar throughout his or her lifetime."

Lauren is one of only 37 students nationwide to receive the 2026 Sumners Scholar honor. In addition to the awarded scholarship, each Scholar receives access to leadership programs, civic engagement opportunities, and networking events.

"I am so grateful to the Sumners Foundation for the opportunity to connect with other Sumners Scholars, participate in civic engagement and events, and expand my learning beyond DBU as I network and prepare for my future career," Lauren shared.

Lauren now stands alongside previous DBU Sumners Scholars and notable United States figures within the Sumners alumni network, including U.S. District Judge Fred Biery, former Senior Deputy Attorney General of Oklahoma Dara Derryberry, and former Chief Justice of the Texas Supreme Court Nathan Hecht.

As a Sumners Scholar, Lauren joins a legacy of leaders committed to serving their communities and shaping the future of democracy.