The annual Dr. Benjamin Elijah Mays Excellence Awards Program recognizes excellence among minority students in high school throughout Indiana each year in memory of Dr. Benjamin Elijah Mays, one of the great educators of our time.  Dr. Mays was president of Morehouse College for 27 years.  He received honorary degrees from Ball State University (1983) and from other colleges and universities around the world.  Because of his many accomplishments in the area of education and his emphasis upon excellence, we have initiated this annual event to acquaint minority students with his philosophy and to encourage their pursuit of academic excellence.

    Eligible students must have a minimum cummulative grade point average of 3.2/4.0 scale and be nominated by their respective schools.  Other factors for consideration can include leadership as well as community service.