Orange Beach, Ala. — (OBA) — The Wharf in Orange Beach is once again investing in the future of Baldwin County’s students through its annual scholarship program. The coastal entertainment destination announced that applications are now open for its sixth annual $10,000 scholarship. The award recognizes one graduating high school senior from Baldwin County who shows exceptional academic performance, community involvement, and leadership potential. The program continues The Wharf’s growing dedication to education and local support.

Applications opened January 26, 2026, and are available to all Baldwin County seniors attending public, private, or virtual schools. The Wharf’s scholarship is part of its Anchor Campaign, an initiative designed to strengthen the Gulf Coast community through outreach, donations, and partnerships.

“Expanding upon The Wharf's Anchor Campaign, the scholarship aims to empower tomorrow's leaders, educators, and entrepreneurs,” said Mary Kate Lantrip, Public Relations and Social Media Manager at The Wharf. “Over the past five years, we've received nearly 300 applications from students county-wide, showcasing exceptional achievements and capabilities. We're thrilled to announce the program's return for its sixth year.”

In addition to the main $10,000 award, The Wharf increased its runner-up scholarship to $2,500 in 2025, acknowledging the growing talent and dedication among applicants. Selection for the scholarship is based on academic achievement, community service, and an essay response.

Since launching in 2021, The Wharf Scholarship has helped several Baldwin County students pursue higher education. Past recipients include Kamiya Watson, the inaugural 2021 winner from Baldwin County Virtual School, who now attends the University of Alabama at Birmingham. Other honorees include Denver Persinger of Spanish Fort High School in 2022, now studying at the University of Denver; and Gulf Shores High School’s Kaysheri Haffner, the 2023 recipient, attending the University of Florida to study law.

In 2024, the scholarship was awarded to Dianna Moore, a Gulf Shores High School graduate currently majoring in Biomedical Sciences at the University of West Florida. The most recent winner, Cami Wiles of Orange Beach High School, received the 2025 award and is now at Auburn University pursuing a double major in Commercial Music and Marketing.

Students interested in applying for the 2026 Wharf Scholarship can find eligibility details, application guidelines, and deadlines online by clicking here. More information about The Wharf and its community involvement is available at alwharf.com.