WCU announces Jenkins-Chastain Award winners

William Carey University held its 2026 Honors Day on April 29 – just before final exams and commencement ceremonies. The year-end event recognizes students for outstanding academic and service achievement.

WCU President Ben Burnett presented the day’s top honor, the Jenkins-Chastain Award, to Benjamin Arnett of Picayune and Karis Griffin of Purvis. Established in 1957, the Jenkins-Chastain Award goes to two students who exemplify citizenship, scholarship, leadership, and Christian service.

“This award is the highest honor given by William Carey University. Ben and Karis excel in all of the qualities possessed by students who win this prestigious award. They lead academically, spiritually and in the way they serve others. We expect great things from both of them after graduation,” Burnett said.

Benjamin Arnett

A President’s List scholar, Benjamin Arnett majored in Christian studies with minors in strategic communication and biblical languages. He was inducted into the Alpha Chi National College Honor Society and received its Benedict Fellowship, a $3,000 scholarship for graduate studies.

“Ben has shown exceptional leadership and commitment to service though campus involvement and faith-based initiatives – but his service is not limited to structured roles. It is evident in his daily interactions and consistent effort to support, encourage, and invest in those around him,” said Katrina Pittman, director of the WCU Student Success Center.

“His actions reflect a genuine commitment to making a meaningful difference in his campus and his community.”

During Honors Day, he also received the J.E. Byrd Memorial Award from the WCU Department of Intercultural Studies.

What’s next: Arnett will attend Southern Baptist Theological Seminary in Louisville, Ky., in pursuit of a master of divinity degree.

Benjamin Arnett is the son of Brad and Alanna Arnett of Picayune.

Karis Griffin

Karis Griffin majored in psychology. Her minor was mass communications, with an emphasis in public relations. A President’s List scholar, she was inducted into the Alpha Chi National College Honor Society and the Kristos Logos Paideia – a global undergraduate honor society for Christian communication students.

She was a member of the Student Government Association and assisted the WCU Student Life Department as a work study student.

“Karis shows exceptional integrity, responsibility, determination and leadership. Her character is reflected in her consistent service to others, impactful leadership in campus organizations, and meaningful engagement in the classroom,” said Keshia Holmes, director of WCU Residence Life.

“She demonstrates a strong commitment to sharing the gospel on campus and in the community, reflecting the importance of her faith in her service and leadership.”

During Honors Day, Griffin was also named the 2026 Outstanding Psychology Student by the Department of Psychology and Counseling.

What’s next: Griffin plans to pursue a master’s degree in counseling. She aspires to become a Christian therapist, integrating the theories of counseling with the principles of Christianity.

Karis Griffin is the daughter of Maria Beach and Jeffrey Griffin of Purvis.

Jenkins-Chastain Award winners Ben Arnett and Karis Griffin visit with WCU President Ben Burnett in Chain Garden after Honors Day 2026.