February 17, 2026

Washington High School Senior Receives $100,000 Academic Scholarship

A person stands indoors, holding a large ceremonial check inside a room with display cases.

“My mom always wanted me to get scholarships. She knew paying for college, especially a big university like Wichita State would be hard. This is great. I’m so thankful. This is everything.” - Jayden Boggess

Three people pose indoors, holding a large ceremonial novelty check together in an office setting.

Life has drastically changed for Washington High School senior Jayden Boggess. He recently received a $100,000 academic scholarship from the Rudd Foundation, lifting a financial burden that once felt overwhelming for his family.

Faculty and staff surprised Jayden with the news in the school’s alumni room on Wednesday, February 11.

A group of adults stands and applauds inside a school room with a banner reading 'WASHINGTON HIGH SCHOOL'.

Moments after the announcement, he Face Timed his mother. When he told her he had received the prestigious, life-changing scholarship, she began to cry.

It was his mom who encouraged him to apply for every scholarship he qualified for. “The Rudd Foundation just happened to have my dream school, so we were like, we have to try. A full ride? Yeah, we have to try,” Jayden said.

What once felt uncertain now feels possible. Relief and pride have replaced the stress that once weighed heavily on the Boggess family.

A group of people gather in a conference room with a large wooden table and display cases filled with awards.

“When I found out I was a finalist and had an interview, I thought, oh yeah. I went over my essays. I did everything I could to prepare,” he said. “The interview went well. This is probably the best education opportunity I have. I’m ready to go to Wichita State right now.” (laughter filled the room)

Jayden plans to major in engineering and is leaning toward mechanical engineering.

The Rudd Scholarship recognizes academic excellence, leadership, perseverance, and a strong commitment to community which are all qualities Jayden embodies.

“His positive attitude, energy, and accomplishments throughout high school stood out to us,” said Rudd Foundation Vice President Corry Roberts. “His determination to get things done. He’s just an amazing young man.”

A group of people stands indoors in front of banners that read 'WASHINGTON', watching an event unfold.

Earning the scholarship was no small feat. Jayden was one of 700 applicants and one of just 75 semifinalists selected to interview.

“We just fell in love with him,” Roberts added. “We’re so excited for him to be in Wichita as a Shocker on our full-ride scholarship.”

Leslie Rudd, the founder of a very successful investment company based in Wichita, Kansas is the benefactor of the Rudd Foundation. Roberts said that he wanted to make an impact on the state. He loved midwestern values and the hard work he saw in people.

Three people proudly hold a large novelty check in an office with display cases.

Rudd wanted his legacy to be a scholarship that would help families achieve higher education. This year is the ninth cohort to be funded by the Rudd Foundation.

The scholarships support Wichita State, Emporia State, Fort Hayes State, and Kansas State Universities.

With the Rudd Foundation scholarship award, Jayden made history as the first student from Washington High School to receive the honor.

In doing so, he has set a new standard and shown future Wildcats what’s possible through hard work and determination.