Kashlee Morgan (Image via the University of Arkansas)
A Mountain View High School graduate known for her leadership on and off the field is among 10 incoming freshmen statewide selected as University of Arkansas Natural State Fellows, an honor that comes with up to $80,000 in support over four years.
The University of Arkansas Honors College announced the 2026 fellowship class this week, naming Kashlee Morgan alongside students from Prairie Grove, Alpena, Lamar, Greenwood, Fort Smith, Hot Springs, New Edinburg, Marion and Sherwood.
The fellowship covers tuition, fees, books, room and board, and other academic expenses, and is designed to support original research, study abroad and service-learning opportunities. To qualify, students must meet ACT/SAT and GPA benchmarks, be Arkansas residents, and satisfy at least one additional criterion — significant financial need, first-generation college enrollment, or residence in a part of the state historically underrepresented at the university.
At Mountain View High School, Morgan served as captain of the varsity dance team and held student government positions representing both the dance and softball programs. She was also active in Beta Club and Future Business Leaders of America.
Academically, Morgan is an AP Scholar with Honor and earned top class honors in AP Environmental Science and AP World History. She maintained Honor Roll status throughout high school and received All-Conference recognition in softball each year, along with All-State Honorable Mention.
Outside the classroom, Morgan volunteered on mission trips to the Casa De Fe orphanage in Ecuador and with children’s ministries in Arkansas. She interned at her church, helping plan youth programs and Vacation Bible School, and worked at Stone County Health and Fitness assisting members and managing daily operations.
Morgan plans to major in history at the U of A. She is the daughter of Kasey and Wesly Morgan.
Honors College Dean Lynda Coon said the second class of fellows builds on the strong foundation set by the program’s inaugural cohort.
“Their commitment to our state, their high level of engagement in high school, and their stellar academic records will translate beautifully into the Honors College,” Coon said in a statement.
The Natural State Fellowship, now in its second year, is part of the university’s effort to retain top Arkansas students and broaden access to higher education across the state’s regions and socioeconomic backgrounds — a goal aligned with Chancellor Charles F. Robinson’s strategic priorities.
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