NATCHITOCHES – Theo Hemphill of Sterlington is this year’s recipient of the Lisa Chesser Borders Endowed Scholarship and Meraki Award, presented to a student pursuing a degree in Fine and Graphic Arts at Northwestern State University. Artist James Borders and Judge Desiree Dyess established the scholarship in memory of his wife, the late Lisa Chesser Borders, in 2019.
“The selection committee was unanimous in recognizing Theo Hemphill for his outstanding body of work, enthusiastic presentation and exceptional technical skill, particularly in painting. His ability to combine craftsmanship with passion set him apart,” Borders said.
The word meraki is derived from Greek and means “labor of love, creative task done with absolute devotion and undivided attention to detail; to infuse passion, soul, and one’s essence into the work.”
“Since its inception, the scholarship has recognized students at Northwestern State University who embody these values through their artistic pursuits and personal character,” Borders said.
The presentations took place in the Lisa Chesser Borders Permanent Student Art Collection, housed on the first floor of Eugene P. Watson Memorial Library, with a large crowd of friends and family in attendance.
Hemphill is pursuing a degree in Fine and Graphic Art with a minor in business.
NSU art students recognized for outstanding work were, from left, Mackensie White, Jerry Chesser and Lisa Ates Borders Award; Sarah Mayeaux, Avis Borders Fletcher and Margaret Pauline Chesser Award, and Theo Hemphill, Lisa Chesser Borders Endowed Scholarship and Meraki Award.
Sarah Mayeaux of Loranger was named winner of the Avis Borders Fletcher and Margaret Pauline Chesser Art Award. She is pursuing a degree in studio art with a minor in biology. Mackensie White of Covington is winner of the Jerry Chesser and Lisa Ates Borders Art Award. She is a double major pursuing degrees in studio art and musical theatre. Both awards recognize the students’ promise and professionalism while honoring the memory of members of the Borders and Chesser families.
Students were selected by a committee upon faculty recommendation and were required to present a cohesive body of studio work, which could include painting, printmaking, sculpture, metalwork or ceramics. Applicants presented their work professionally and delivered an oral presentation discussing their artistic practice and individual pieces.
“Theo was selected for his energy and passion for his craft,” said Anna MacDonald, a selection committee member. “He displayed strong technical skills and a confident, masterful approach to painting. His portfolio was exceptional, showcasing a diverse range of works and mediums, all presented with a high level of professionalism.
“This year also marks a major step forward for the scholarship program. For the first time, the Meraki Scholarship will award $1,000, reflecting the growth of the endowment and the increasing support from the community,” Borders said. “While one student is selected as the primary recipient, the ceremony continues to emphasize encouragement and support for all finalists. This year, all three participating students received $400 in gifts and gift cards, thanks to generous annual donors.
“More than a financial award, the Lisa Chesser Borders Meraki Scholarship remains an investment in students, in the university and in the broader community. It continues to grow as a tradition rooted in faith, creativity and service. As each new recipient is added to the legacy, the mission remains the same: to inspire students to pursue excellence, uplift others, and carry forward the spirit of Lisa Chesser Borders in everything they create.”
Borders extended special thanks on behalf of the Borders and Chesser families to the many sponsors who contributed to the scholarship award. Those include Melvin James, Harbor Freight; Romulus and Jennifer Roquemore, Fisher’s Sports; Kat Beaudoin, Raising Cane’s; Leigh Ann Gilley, Chick-fil-A; Terry Chesser, C & H Precision Machining; Natchitoches City Marshal Randy Williams, Brittany, Lindsey and Gracie Borders; Stacey Stewart, Industrial Supply, David Guillet, Chris Guillet, and Danielle Morgan, Starbucks.
Previous winners include the following.
- Maxey McSwain (2019) – the first recipient, recognized during the unveiling of the Lisa Chesser Borders Permanent Student Art Collection
- Caroline Shepherd (2022) – a Louisiana Scholars’ College student who graduated with a 4.0 GPA and pursued digital illustration
- Mickayla Love (2023) – honored for her commitment to self-expression and artistic discipline
- Skye Marie Dager (2024) – recognized for exceptional production and versatility across multiple mediums
- Elizabeth Maynard (2025) – selected for her large-scale paintings and clear artistic vision
Borders also thanked NSU President James Genovese, Cristy Bernard and Janet Vienne, NSU Foundation and University Advancement, and Steve Hicks and Elizabeth Pursell in the Academic Success Center in Watson Library . In addition to MacDonald, committee members were Michael Scott, Al Poston, Romulus Roquemore and Traci LaBom-Norris.
Borders said he hopes to establish a second endowment in the future to ensure the scholarship’s long-term sustainability and impact. Contributions to the scholarship can be made through the NSU Foundation at https://northwesternstatealumni.com/lisa-borders/.