Lawrence Oyenpemi named recipient of Phi Kappa Phi Chapter 246 Graduate Scholar Award

Honors College Associate Dean Philip Phillips, left, president of the Phi Kappa Phi Honor Society Chapter 246 at Middle Tennessee State University in Murfreesboro, Tenn., and Racha El Kadiri, associate dean of the MTSU College of Graduate Studies, right, present doctoral student Lawrence Oyenpemi with the chapter’s 2026 Graduate Scholar Award. This competitive honor recognizes academic excellence among graduate students who are active members of the nation’s oldest all disciplinary honor society. (MTSU photo by Robin E. Lee)

MURFREESBORO, Tenn. — Middle Tennessee State University doctoral student Lawrence Oyenpemi has been named the recipient of the 2026 Phi Kappa Phi Chapter 246 Graduate Scholar Award, a competitive honor recognizing academic excellence among graduate students who are active members of the nation’s oldest all‑disciplinary honor society.

Dr. Philip Phillips, University Honors College associate dean and professor of English — Dr. Philip Phillips

The $1,000 Graduate Scholar Award supports Phi Kappa Phi members pursuing advanced degrees at MTSU and reflects the chapter’s commitment to fostering scholarly achievement, leadership, and lifelong learning.

Oyenpemi is currently pursuing a Ph.D. in economics at MTSU. He previously earned his master’s degree in economics from MTSU in 2025, where he distinguished himself through strong academic performance and dedication to research in the field.

“Lawrence exemplifies the intellectual rigor and commitment to scholarship that Phi Kappa Phi seeks to recognize,” said Philip Phillips, president of the MTSU Chapter. “His academic journey at MTSU demonstrates both excellence and perseverance, and we are proud to support his continued graduate studies.”

The Phi Kappa Phi Chapter 246 Graduate Scholar Award is a one‑time scholarship awarded by Chapter 246 to an outstanding graduate student enrolled in a degree‑seeking program at MTSU. Recipients must be active Phi Kappa Phi members with a minimum GPA of 3.75, be enrolled in at least three graduate credit hours during the award year and demonstrate a strong record of academic achievement.

Funded through the Phi Kappa Phi members and supporters, the scholarship may be received as a single $1,000 payment or split into two $500 installments, depending on the recipient’s preference.

Phi Kappa Phi is an all‑disciplinary honor society that recognizes excellence across academic fields. Founded in 1897, the society promotes scholarship, integrity and service under its enduring motto, “Let the love of learning rule humanity.” MTSU’s Chapter 246 actively supports students through scholarships, fellowships, service initiatives and faculty‑student engagement opportunities.

Oyenpemi’s selection as the 2026 Graduate Scholar further reflects the strength of MTSU’s graduate programs and the university’s commitment to advancing research and academic excellence.

— Robin E. Lee (Robin.E.Lee@mtsu.edu)