London McKenzie wins statewide essay contest

Special to The Clinton Courier

London McKenzie

London McKenzie, a senior at Clinton High School, has been named the first-place winner of the Veterans of Foreign Wars Department of Mississippi’s 2025–26 Voice of Democracy Scholarship Contest.

As the top recipient for Mississippi, McKenzie will receive a $3,000 scholarship to support continued educational pursuits. In addition to this achievement, McKenzie has been selected to attend the Founding Forward Spirit of America Youth Leadership Program in Valley Forge, Pennsylvania, this month.

The five-day residential program is designed for high school students and focuses on civic education, leadership development, and American history. McKenzie will participate in mock congressional debates, visit historical sites and attend interactive workshops.

While participating in the program, he will also have the opportunity to earn additional scholarship funds.

The Voice of Democracy Scholarship is the VFW’s premier youth program, recognizing outstanding students in grades nine through twelve who demonstrate leadership, patriotism and a strong commitment to the principles of democracy.