Oxford Senior Ellie Jones, Lafayette Student Earn Lindy Callahan Scholar-Athlete Honor

Only six Oxford School District students had earned the Lindy Callahan Scholar-Athlete distinction in the award's 30-year history. Oxford High senior Eleanor "Ellie" Jones is now the seventh.

The Mississippi High School Activities Association selected Jones as the District 2 female Lindy Callahan Scholar-Athlete for 2026, a statewide honor recognizing seniors who exemplify scholarship, sportsmanship and service. The Oxford School District announced the selection March 27.

The program, established in memory of Gulfport coach Lindy Callahan and administered by MHSAA, produces just 16 honorees each year: one male and one female from each of the state's eight regions. District winners are considered at the state level for the award, which includes a scholarship.

Jones built her case across every arena at Oxford High. On the soccer field, she has played varsity since her freshman year, logging five goals and 15 assists as a midfielder. In the classroom, she earned National Merit Finalist status, AP Scholar with Distinction recognition, and membership in both the National Honor Society and the 30+ Club. She also serves as co-editor in chief of the OHS newspaper.

Following graduation, Jones plans to attend college, with top choices including Northwestern University, the University of Wisconsin, the University of Virginia and the University of Georgia.

"We are so proud of Ellie for being selected as the District 2 female winner of the Lindy Callahan Scholarship. This award is one of the highest honors for high school sports in the state of Mississippi," said Chris Baughman, Oxford School District co-activities director. "I could not think of a better recipient for this prestigious award than Ellie."

Oxford was not the only local school celebrated. Lafayette High's Gavyn Leary was also named a Lindy Callahan Scholar-Athlete, making him the fourth recipient in Lafayette High School history. A multi-sport athlete and drum major of the LHS Band, Leary maintained superior academic standing throughout his high school career. With Jones and Leary both honored in the same cycle, Lafayette County placed two students among Mississippi's 16 most recognized senior scholar-athletes of 2026.