Justin Gregory, a senior at Dinwiddie High School, has been awarded one of the most highly selective merit scholarships in the nation. The Jefferson Scholars Foundation, which has long attracted exceptional talent to the University of Virginia through its Jefferson Scholars Program, selected Justin as one of 12 recipients of the newly established Walentas Scholarship. He will commence his studies in the fall at U.Va.

In order to be named a Walentas Scholar, candidates must undergo a rigorous, highly competitive, multi-stage selection process. First, they are nominated by their high schools based on their demonstrated excellence and exceptional potential in the areas of leadership, scholarship, and citizenship. Additionally, Walentas Scholar nominees must be in the first generation of their families to attend college. Once nominated, the students go through at least one round of regional interviews. If selected as a regional finalist, students are then invited to participate in a final round of interviews.

The 12 inaugural recipients of the 2022 Walentas Scholarship boast a number of significant achievements and Justin is no exception. During his time at Dinwiddie High School, Justin has dedicated countless hours to his studies and extracurricular activities.  Justin has a passion for cheer and has been a member of the DHS football sideline cheer, basketball sideline cheer, and competition cheer.  He has also participated in track, tennis, and several extracurricular clubs including the DHS National Honor Society, DECA (current president), SODA, Random Acts of Kindness, Gay Straight Alliance, and Ruriteens club.

In addition to receiving the full cost of attending the University for four years, Walentas Scholars benefit from a number of enrichment programs sponsored by the Foundation, including travel abroad, career networking activities, an outdoor challenge program, and a leadership speaker series.