South Harrison High School senior Ruby King has been awarded a $15,000 per year renewable scholarship to attend Graceland University in Lamoni, Iowa, joining the inaugural class of their brand-new Performing Arts Program. This award totals $60,000 over four years, affirming King’s remarkable talent, leadership, and dedication to the performing arts.
“SHHS is proud to celebrate Ruby’s success as a symbol of what is possible when students are empowered to dream big, work hard, and take center stage,” said Sarah Findley, Theater Sponsor at SHHS. King will be recognized at a signing event with Graceland University representatives, on Wednesday, April 16 at 4 p.m. at SHHS.
King has been a core member of the SHHS Theatre Department, Drama Club, and Troupe #11268 of the International Thespian Society, earning accolades for her standout performances and behind-the-scenes contributions. From emotionally resonant lead roles to tireless work in rehearsals, King’s presence has elevated the entire department.
“This is more than just a scholarship—it’s a sign of what’s possible when students are supported and seen,” said Sarah Findley. “Ruby has the kind of natural talent, artistic ability, and heart that reminds you why the arts matter. Her success reflects not just her own hard work, but the growing power of our hometown performing arts program.”
King is one of several graduating seniors from the SHHS Theatre Department who will pursue performing arts beyond high school. From local scholarships to national performances—this senior class reflects the explosive growth and impact of the school’s revitalized theater program. Three years under new direction, it is producing scholarship-winning performers and re-establishing itself as a vital part of the South Harrison community.
King plans to major in Performing Arts with an emphasis in both choir and theater, and help shape the future of the new program at Graceland University. She is one of the first students selected for the initiative and will play a key role in helping the department establish its identity.
“Theater gave me a home, a voice, and the confidence to go after what I want,” King said. “This scholarship is a dream come true—and it’s only the beginning.”
Graceland’s Performing Arts Program creates transformational artists, scholars, educators, and entrepreneurs through holistic artistry, collaborative environments, and a culture of excellence. “With a rich history and bright future in the performing arts, we strive to balance tradition and innovation, diversity and unity, to be the institution of choice for students seeking artistic excellence and learning that is integrated within the performing arts and centered around a passionate, diverse, creative community of artistic citizens,” according to Cara Phipps, Assistant Professor of Theatre specializing in directing, acting, dramaturgy, and theory.
Ruby King is the daughter of Julie & Darren Morse of New Hampton and Tyler King of Bethany - an alumnus of the SHHS Theatre Department.