Mississippi Christian University earns Halbrook Awards for academic excellence in athletics

MC student-athletes Emily Buchanan and Gage Sorey received Halbrook Awards for academic excellence from the IHL.

Mississippi Christian University (MC) received two Halbrook Awards for academic excellence during the Mississippi Institutions of Higher Learning’s (IHL) annual “Ascent to 55% Convening” on Oct. 22 in Jackson. MC student-athletes Gage Sorey and Emily Buchanan were recognized for individual academic excellence.

Dr. Casey Prestwood, IHL associate commissioner for academic and student affairs, announced the awards for the 2025-2026 academic year.

The David M. Halbrook Trophy is presented to colleges and universities with the highest percentage of academic achievement in both the men’s and women’s divisions. MC received both honors in the “Independent College and University” category.

Student-athletes from Mississippi's public, private, two-year and four-year postsecondary institutions were honored for their achievements in the classroom. The program recognizes colleges and universities that achieve and maintain high academic standards for student-athletes, thus encouraging high graduation rates.

“It is nice to be recognized because it reinforces that our athletes are students first and our athletes’ academic success is our top priority in our athletic department,” said Kenny Bizot, MC athletic director.

“This award shows the hard work, discipline and commitment of our student-athletes, coaches and teachers. I couldn't be prouder of the culture of excellence our programs have established.”

The David M. Halbrook Certificate for Academic Achievement Among Athletes recognizes the efforts of individual student-athletes who excel in academics, leadership and service. Established in 1984 through the passage of House Concurrent Resolution No. 88, the awards program is made possible through endowments from former Rep. David M. Halbrook and his brothers in honor of their parents. Each college or university selected a male and female student-athlete to receive this recognition.

Bizot said MC’s student-athlete honorees, Sorey and Buchanan, are “perfect examples” of student-athletes.

“They both have excelled in the classroom and in their respective sports,” he said. “Our department is proud of both of them and their accomplishments.”

A defender on the men’s soccer team, Sorey is a senior from Brandon who played in 13 of the Choctaws’ 14 games in 2025, scoring three goals with eight total shots and five shots-on-goal, including a game-winning goal in MC’s 4-0 victory over rival Delta State.

Buchanan, a senior on the women’s tennis team, recently captured the ITA South Regional singles championship at the GSC Fall Tennis Championships without dropping a set throughout the tournament. The Jackson native capped her championship run with a 6-4, 6-1 victory in the final. She also teamed with Ann Cabot Stockett to finish as regional runners-up in the women’s doubles championship match.