Jessup University Announces its 2026 Presidential Scholars
Three Presidential Scholars proudly stepped into a special black-tie event at Jessup University on the evening of February 20. Carter Mitchell, Liam Sacopaso and Noah Brandt are the trio of hard-working high schoolers honored at this year’s Scholar Showcase.
The packed room was aglow with excitement as family, friends and faculty arrived to celebrate these stand-out students. The doors for the event opened at 5 PM. Soon, a mocktail and mingling hour began. Before long, students, staff and supportive parents were sharing stories among themselves, singing the praises of the individuals who would be honored that night.
Next up, was a full catered dinner followed by dessert. Then, the three Presidential Scholars from the prior year were invited on-stage to share how winning this award forged their path forward at Jessup. Each year, three Presidential Scholars receive Jessup’s most prestigious and generous award. The scholarship provides an incredible four years of tuition.
This year, 97 incoming students applied for the scholarship. That’s the largest number of applicants in Jessup’s history. Applicants are required to have a GPA of 3.75 or higher, and academics aren’t the only requirements. Students are assessed on their leadership, spiritual life, and Christian character.
As the Scholar Showcase event concluded on February 20, Carter Mitchell, Liam Sacopaso and Noah Brandt were invited onto the stage to receive a check representing their scholarships. Each student was blessed to receive recognition for their hard work, servant’s heart and excellence.
Get to know your 2026 Presidential Scholars
Carter Mitchell — Pre-Nursing, El Dorado Hills
Carter has a smile that’s just about as warm as she is. Her natural warmth combined with calmness will carry her far in her chosen career of nursing. Carter’s passion is setting people at ease, while caring for them with real kindness. She loves sharing Jesus and was drawn to Jessup’s Christian community as a place to deepen her faith.
“Winning this full tuition award has been such a reminder of God’s provision in my life. My parents have always sacrificed so much to support me, and this scholarship allows me to give back in a way that honors their sacrifices.”
Liam Sacopaso — Pre-Nursing, Rocklin
Liam was raised in Rocklin and has a true sense of compassion for his own community. He sees nursing as a way to give back to people in his own hometown. Caring for those who are struggling with their health is one way Liam plans to show his love for Jesus and faith in action.
“To my family and me, this scholarship is a true blessing that provides the freedom for me to prioritize my studies and personal development. I’m most excited to join the close-knit community at Jessup, meet my future classmates, and grow in faith alongside them.”
Noah Brandt — Aviation, Roseville
Noah’s sights have been set on a career in aviation since he was young. Noah already holds his private pilot’s license, plus 40 college credits. Noah sees Jessup as a place where he can connect with believers in aviation, as he moves towards his goal of becoming a commercial airline pilot.
“Receiving this full tuition scholarship is an incredible blessing for my family, especially as the oldest of four kids and as I pursue aviation, which comes with significant expenses. I’m most excited about being part of a community of fellow believers while growing in Aviation, working toward all the licenses and ratings I need to eventually become an airline pilot.”
The 2026 Scholar Showcase event was a successful night of celebrating the dreams, hard work and dedication of these three stand-out students.
Interested in learning more about the Scholar Showcase? Applications open in late fall each year. Learn more at jessup.edu/scholarshowcase or contact the Jessup Admissions team at admissions@jessup.edu or 916-577-2200 with any questions.
