Briar Cliff University Welcomes Four Presidential Scholars from the Class of 2030

June 3, 2026

Students as pictured, left to right: Natalie Delaney, Willa Schreier, Tyler LaMere, Jameson Conway

(Sioux City, Iowa – June 3, 2026) During Freshman Orientation on May 29, Briar Cliff University formally recognized four incoming students as members of its 2026 Presidential Scholars. The students were recognized by Briar Cliff President Dr. Matthew Draud as they committed to joining the University in the fall.

The Presidential Scholarship is Briar Cliff University’s most prestigious scholarship award, offering full tuition and general fees to students who demonstrate exceptional academic achievement, leadership, service, and character. The scholarship is renewable for up to 4 years, or 8 semesters.

This year’s Presidential Scholars are Willa Schreier, Jameson Conway, Natalie Delaney, and Tyler LaMere.

“The Presidential Scholarship is something we encourage the very best students to apply for,” said Dr. Matthew Draud during the Presidential Scholars signing ceremony. “Briar Cliff has high hopes for what these four students will add to our Presidential Scholars community. Collectively, this group will help move forward the University’s mission as it heads into its centennial year in 2030.”

Willa Schreier

A standout student-athlete at Excelsior Springs High School, Schreier is recognized for her resiliency, leadership and commitment to those around her. Over the years, coaches say, they have witnessed incredible growth in a young athlete who once feared failure into a confident leader who welcomes challenges and inspires others to do the same.

Schreier is a talented writer and a thoughtful student who educators say has insight, empathy and maturity. On the field and in the classroom, she is recognized for her desire to help teammates and classmates, often putting the success of others before her own. Her academic ability, character, and determination made her a strong candidate for Briar Cliff’s top scholarship award.

Jameson Conway

While at Wilber-Clatonia High School in Nebraska, Conway achieved a 4.0 GPA and was a second-team all-state honoree. He was a three-sport athlete, earning four varsity letters in cross country and basketball and also competing in track and field.

Conway has also been heavily involved in student leadership outside of athletics. He is president of his school’s Future Business Leaders of America chapter and an active member of the Student Council and National Honor Society. Teachers and coaches say he’s a steady leader whose work ethic, humility and commitment to service have left a lasting mark on his school community.

Natalie Delaney

Delaney possesses a remarkable combination of academic excellence, leadership, and service to Briar Cliff. She was a member of the Health Sciences Academy and Early College High School program at Millard South High School, graduating with a 3.95 GPA and an associate degree from Metropolitan Community College before graduating from high school.

She has a diverse range of leadership experiences in numerous organizations and activities. In addition to holding various leadership roles in Scouts BSA, Delaney has attended National Youth Leadership Training and served as a camp counselor and retreat leader for three summers at Camp Carol Joy Holling. She has also been involved in theater, HOSA, National Honor Society, and community service projects.

Tyler LaMere

A graduate of Wellington High School in Colorado, LaMere is known for his intellectual curiosity and drive to push himself. During high school, he followed a challenging academic program, including honors, Advanced Placement, and concurrent enrollment work, and excelled in mathematics and science.

LaMere was a leader in the golf program at Wellington and will continue his athletic career at Briar Cliff. Educators say he is analytical, thoughtful, and determined, able to see solutions and opportunities that others don’t always see. His love of learning, resilience, and commitment to his goals helped set him apart during the Presidential Scholar selection process.