Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College students Skylar Bell of D’Iberville and Hunter Williams of Hurley have been named 2026 Coca-Cola Leaders of Promise Scholars. Each will receive a $1,000 scholarship in recognition of academic achievement, leadership potential, and community involvement.

Both Bell and Williams are sophomores majoring in mechanical engineering and are members of Phi Theta Kappa, the international honor society for students at associate degree-granting colleges.

Bell became involved with Phi Theta Kappa during the spring 2026 semester. He participated in chapter events, meetings and ceremonies before taking on a leadership role as an officer of the Pi Epsilon Chapter.

In addition to his involvement with PTK, Bell serves as vice president of the STEM Club, is a member of the Baptist Student Union, and volunteers with the Humane Society of South Mississippi. He plans to transfer to Mississippi State University to continue his education in mechanical engineering.

“This scholarship will make a difference for me by greatly helping me to pay for my tuition once I transfer to Mississippi State University,” Bell said.

Williams learned about Phi Theta Kappa through MGCCC’s Honors Program and was drawn to the opportunities the organization provides. As he became more involved, he decided to join the chapter’s officer team to strengthen his leadership skills and become more active on campus. He also participates in the Honors Program.

Williams said receiving the Leaders of Promise Scholarship will help him continue working toward his academic and professional goals.

“This scholarship will help with the cost of pursuing my degree and allow me to focus more on my education and future career goals,” Williams said. “It will also support me as I continue to grow academically and professionally.”

Both students learned about the scholarship through their Phi Theta Kappa advisors, Sydney Cirlot and Karen Scott, who both encouraged them to apply.

The Coca-Cola Leaders of Promise Scholarship Program helps new Phi Theta Kappa members defray educational expenses while they are enrolled in associate degree programs. Scholars are selected based on scholastic achievement, community service and leadership potential and are encouraged to assume leadership roles by participating in Society programs.

The Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation provides funding for the scholarships.