Harker Heights, TX – July, 2026 – The Military Child Education Coalition (MCEC) and Columbia Southern University (CSU) are proud to announce Audrey Nugent of Virginia Beach, Virginia, as the inaugural recipient of the 2026 Heroic Hearts Scholarship.
Nugent is a recent high school graduate and military-connected student whose academic drive and personal resilience exemplify the spirit of this award. Having graduated at 16, Audrey has been working her first job while actively building the foundation for her future in higher education. As one of six siblings, Audrey has navigated her academic journey with determination and clarity of purpose. Her academic plan includes a bachelor's degree in psychology with a concentration in criminal justice, followed by a master's degree in forensic psychology, all in pursuit of a career as a criminal profiler with the FBI.
"Audrey's story is exactly why this scholarship exists," said Mary Bier, President and CEO of MCEC. "Military-connected students face challenges that most of their peers never encounter; frequent moves, family separation, and financial pressures that can stand between them and their potential. Audrey has faced those challenges head-on, and we are honored to help remove one more barrier on her path forward."
In her own words, the Heroic Hearts Scholarship would allow Audrey to redirect her energy from financial anxiety toward academic and professional growth, and providing that foundation is at the heart of why MCEC and CSU created this award.
"This scholarship is more than financial support...it's an investment in future leaders who will make a difference in the lives of others," said Chief Master Sgt. of the Air Force (Ret.) JoAnne "JO" Bass, CSU's strategic advisor for global and enterprise relations. "We're proud to partner with the Military Child Education Coalition to invest in military-connected students like Audrey, whose determination, resilience and commitment to learning reflect the very best of our military community."
About Columbia Southern University
The Heroic Hearts Scholarship was established for military-connected students pursuing an online degree program through Columbia Southern University. It covers tuition and technology fees for 120 credit hours, up to 48 months, or completion of the selected online degree program, whichever comes first. Learn more at ColumbiaSouthern.edu/Scholarships.
About the Military Child Education Coalition
The Military Child Education Coalition (MCEC) is a nonprofit organization founded in 1998 and headquartered in Harker Heights, Texas. MCEC's mission is to ensure quality educational experiences for all military-connected children. Through research-based programs, professional development, and advocacy, MCEC supports students, families, and educators navigating the unique challenges of military life — including frequent moves, family separation, and transitions between schools and states. Learn more at militarychild.org.
Contact Information
Military Child Education Coalition
Alejandra Lozano, Marketing Manager
alejandra.lozano@militarychild.org
Columbia Southern University
Brittany Fillmore
Brittany.Fillmore@columbiasouthern.edu