The Twin City Players established the Brian Swiger Memorial Scholarship in 1996 in memory of former member Brian Swiger. Scholarships (up to $1,500) are earmarked for seniors graduating from Berrien County high schools who have demonstrated a strong interest in theater-related activities during their academic careers. Winners, however, can use the award money to pursue any field of study at any accredited college, university, trade school or arts education institution.
Applications are handled through the Berrien Community Foundation, www.berriencommunity.org
Brian Swiger Memorial Scholarship
2025 Recipient Braden Miesse
Braden Miesse is an honors graduate of St. Joseph High School. He has performed in his school's orchestra, band, musicals, plays, and jazz band, as well as with the Southwest Michigan Symphony Orchestra, GhostLight Theatre, and Lake Michigan Youth Orchestra, where he performed solos on cello and piano. Outside of music, he was a National Honor Society Officer and participated in math club, baking club, and board game club. This fall, he plans to attend the University of Michigan to study music education.
2025 Recipient Bailey Roeder
Bailey Roeder, a graduate of Brandywine High School, is deeply interested in music, astronomy, theater, and engineering. He has participated in over 20 theater productions, band, and jazz band. Additionally, he has been active in his community, contributing to several organizations including Strive 4 a Safer Drive, the Michigan Gateway Community Foundation (YAC), Student Council, and the National Honor Society. It has been his lifelong dream to make a discovery that will fundamentally alter the course of humankind – leaving a legacy that will outlive generations. He will attend the University of Michigan in the Fall to pursue a degree in Astronomy/Astrophysics or Space Science Engineering.