PRESS RELEASE: JUNE 29, 2026

SJR State Athlete Jessica Horn earns highest scholar award

St. Johns River State College volleyball player Jessica Horn was named the Roberta Stokes Award winner by the FCSAA. The Award is given annually to the player who exhibits top-tier athletic achievements and maintains stellar grade point averages.

Jessica Horn

The sophomore from Joliet Catholic Academy in Plainfield, IL, was also first team FCSAA, MVP of the region tournament, and setter of the year. She was also selected as NJCAA First Team All American. While playing for SJR State, Horn set the record for the Vikings and the D2 Sun Lakes Conference for assists and aces in a season.

Head coach Stephanie Champine said Horn has made a tremendous impact on the program and played a key role in helping the team and the College make history. “She led our team as a captain, ran a 5–1 for the full season, while maintaining a 4.0. Jess didn’t just succeed here, she changed what excellence looks like in this program. She set the standard for what it means to be great,” Champine said. “Aside from all of her accolades, Jess is a wonderful person and was a joy to coach. I am truly grateful I was able to recruit her in and be a small part of her journey.”

SJR State President Pickens said Horn represents excellence in both the classroom and on the court. “It was an honor to have her at SJR State, and it will be a pleasure to watch her success continue, not just on the volleyball court, but in life,” Pickens said.

Horn will continue her education and volleyball career this fall with Palm Beach Atlantic University.

The Vikings volleyball team closed their 2025 season with their first-ever state and region 8 title, and a historic first appearance in the national championships, where they returned home tied for 9th in the nation.