Virginia Beach has 11 high schools, and of those 11 high schools, 22 students are chosen each year to be E.E. Brickell Scholars.
The E.E. Brickell Scholars program is designed to promote and recognize academic excellence among high school students in Virginia Beach City Public Schools. The scholarship committee at each high school is to select two students in the spring of their junior year, making this the most prestigious award given in the district. This year at Ocean Lakes, juniors Smit Kothari and Mahi Sakharpe were selected as 2027 Brickell Scholars, with senior Nathan He recognized as a finalist for the Class of 2026.
“Being named a Brickell Scholar is a huge honor, and it makes me feel very grateful and proud,” Smit said. “I’m thankful for everyone who supported me throughout the process.”
Beyond the personal achievement, Smit noted that the title comes with a commitment to his peers and the city.
“I feel like it’s my responsibility to give back to my community, represent the scholarship well, and encourage other students to work hard and pursue their goals,” Smit said.
The program is more than just a title; it is a gateway to a $6,000 merit-based scholarship awarded by the Virginia Beach Rotary Club. Over the next year, the scholars will participate in a series of seminars where they will engage with city experts. After these seminars, the pool of nominees will be narrowed down to the one official winner of the scholarship. Yet, even if a nominee does not win the final award, they remain a recognized E.E. Brickell Scholar.
He shared a similar sentiment of gratitude regarding the selection.
“I’m incredibly blessed and humbled by the opportunity to be recognized by the Virginia Beach Rotary Club and the VBCPS Office of Gifted Programs,” He said. “It feels surreal to be recognized for this prestigious honor, and I’m extremely grateful for the support I’ve received throughout this entire process.”
The school administration also shared their appreciation for both the students and the staff who made the achievement possible.
“Congratulations to Smit Kothari and Mahi Sahkarpe for being our 2027 Brickell Scholars and to Nathan He, a 2026 finalist for Brickell Scholars,” Principal Dr. Leslie Ittner said. “Special thanks to Amy Jo Harrell for coordinating the Brickell Scholars process for OLHS.”
