Student leader Ruth Bishop receives national recognition and a $1,300 scholarship through the Coca-Cola Academic Team program.
SUMMIT, Miss. — Southwest Mississippi Community College student Ruth Bishop has been named a member of the 2026 Coca-Cola Academic Team, earning a $1,300 scholarship in recognition of her academic achievement, leadership, and service.
The Coca-Cola Academic Team program, sponsored by the Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation in partnership with Phi Theta Kappa, recognizes outstanding students at community colleges across the nation. Nearly $200,000 in scholarships are awarded annually, and each scholar receives a commemorative medallion.
Ruth Lewis Bishop of Summit is the daughter of Dr. Steve Bishop and Melanie Bishop and a graduate of Parklane Academy. During her time at Southwest Mississippi Community College, Bishop has demonstrated exceptional leadership and campus involvement.
She has served as:
- President of Phi Theta Kappa
- Vice President of the Freshman Class
- President of Bear Trackers
- Captain of Redline
In addition, she is actively involved as a member of the Spirit Team, a StageBand dancer and Student Dance Director, an SMCC Diamond Girl, and a member of the Baptist Student Union.
Bishop’s honors include Freshman Class Favorite, Freshman Homecoming Maid, SMCC Beauty (freshman and sophomore years), Homecoming Queen, and Miss SMCC.
Following graduation, she plans to attend the University of Mississippi and major in accounting.
“The Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation has a long history of providing financial assistance to outstanding students at community colleges,” said Jane Hale Paulsen, President of the Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation. “We are proud to partner with Phi Theta Kappa to make it possible for more deserving students to achieve their educational goals and support tomorrow’s global community leaders.”
Students are nominated for the academic team by their college administrators. Selection is based on academic achievement, leadership, and engagement in college and community service.