Three incoming freshman students, planning to enroll for the Fall 2026 semester, have been awarded the Alice Hamilton Scholarship. This award covers their entire tuition for all four years at Taylor University.
Jacob Kolb, from St. Charles, Missouri, Ellie Smith, from Carmel, Indiana, and Alanna Moritz, from Spring Hill, Tennessee, were selected from a cohort of more than 100 gifted and high-achieving high school students who competed for the scholarship at the annual Scholars Day in November.
Alice Hamilton, the scholarship’s namesake, attended the Fort Wayne College of Medicine (then a part of Taylor University) in 1890, prior to Taylor moving to Upland in 1893. Hamilton was a noted doctor, worker advocate, peace ambassador, and the first female professor at Harvard Medical School.
"Jacob, Ellie, and Alanna are some amazing students. But they are very similar to the other great students we get every year," said Andy Gammons, Executive Director of Admissions. "They are gifted academically and already making a real difference in their communities. We look forward to the difference that they will make at Taylor University next fall."
Jacob Kolb is active in both the arts and athletics. He leads worship in his youth group, performs in community theater, and served as a captain on his soccer team. Homeschooled and the oldest of four, Jacob plans to study Political Science, Philosophy, & Economics, with hopes of continuing on to law school.
A cross-country athlete at Carmel High School, Ellie Smith stepped into the role of captain to help shape a supportive, encouraging team culture for her fellow runners. She plans to study Exercise Science and later pursue graduate work in physical therapy. Passionate about expanding access to care, Ellie volunteers at NeuroHope, a nonprofit that provides rehabilitation services to individuals who might not otherwise be able to afford them.
Alanna Moritz dreams of becoming an illustrator and author—a passion sparked through her relationship with her grandfather. Active in her local church, she enjoys serving others and showing God’s love in practical ways. Alanna finds great meaning in writing her prayers, grateful for the unique ways God meets her through creativity. Her storytelling gift has opened doors to many roles, including serving as an event photographer at her school. She plans to study Illustration and Creative Writing at Taylor this coming fall.
