For the past 60 years, the Mowell Cup has been a symbol of achievement in Fayette County,
awarded to a graduating senior who exemplifies leadership, character, and academic
excellence.

Established in 1965 by CJ & Faye Mowell of Mowell Funeral Home, the Cup was first awarded
at graduation ceremonies. As new high schools opened across Fayette County, each school
adopted the tradition, expanding its reach and significance. Recipients are selected by their
school’s faculty—not the Mowell family—ensuring the award reflects the respect and admiration
of those who know the students best. In recent years, the recognition has also come with a
$1,000 scholarship, supported by a foundation established by the Mowell Family to help
students further their academic goals.

David Mowell, current owner and operator of Mowell Funeral Home & Cremation Service,
explains the award’s purpose: “The Mowell Cup is presented to the most outstanding senior,
and it recognizes excellence both in the classroom and in the community.”

Today, the award is presented during each high school’s Awards Night. David Mowell continues
the family tradition by attending many of these ceremonies himself to present the Cup. “When
my mom and dad started it, they wanted to recognize the students. As that continued into my
lifetime, it’s been a joy to present the award and be part of so many lives,” he says.

Mowell Funeral Home has long been a cornerstone in the Fayette County community. “We’ve
been here for over 60 years. Our staff lives here. Our kids have grown up here. We’ve been part
of local churches, sports, and activities,” Mowell says. “We’ve also walked with families through
loss, and they’ve walked with us. That connection means we feel like we’re part of each other’s
families.”

Looking to the future, David Mowell plans for the tradition to continue for years to come. “We
had the privilege of my son, Harrison, presenting a couple of the awards last year, as he himself
is a Whitewater High School Alumni. Now, the third generation is getting involved.”

For the Mowell family, the Cup is more than just an award—it’s a symbol of community,
continuity, and the value of recognizing young people who lead by example.

The following are this year’s winners of the Mowell Cup:

Whitewater High School: Isabella Higman         

Fayette County High School: Nathaly Rangel-Gonzalez

Sandy Creek High School: Kelsie Henton

McIntosh High School: William Nixon

Starr’s Mill High School: Micah Freeman