Donors

A.W. and Hilda Singer, because of their strong commitment to education, created a scholarship endowment in 1995 to assist students with obtaining a college education. Mr. Singer served as an associate professor in chemistry at the university from 1960-1978. Although Mr. Singer passed away in 1998 and Mrs. Singer in 1999, this scholarship endowment will remain a lasting tribute to them and their commitment to Tennessee Technological University. Thank you letters will be shared with their son, Dr. Kenneth Singer. 

A.C. and Katherine Clark have accomplished a great deal since 1948 -- the year they graduated from Tennessee Technological University.

A.C., who received his bachelor's degree in animal science and master's degree in agriculture business management, served as Tennessee's commissioner of agriculture from 1987 to 1989. He also worked in the University of Tennessee's Agricultural Extension Service for 35 years - the last 25 as district supervisor in the Upper Cumberland. He also is a past member of the UT Board of Trustees and the Tennessee Board of Regents.

Katherine received her degree in mathematics. She taught in the vocation improvement program at Upperman High School for 15 years, retiring in 1983. She serves as treasurer of the Putnam County Retired Teachers Association and the Putnam County Family and Community Education Council.

A.C. and Katherine credit much of their success in the education they received at Tennessee Tech. Because of this, they have endowed a scholarship in the School of Agriculture that will be matched by the Agriculture Foundation.

Erin Kimberlin Endowed Scholarship

Erin Pitts Kimberlin was graduated from the University in 2013 with a multidisciplinary studies-elementary education degree. Erin was a caring teacher, loving wife, and wonderful mother. She was always known to have a plan and loved to cook and bake. Most importantly, Erin loved the Lord. Tragically, Erin lost her life in the Putnam County tornado on March 3, 2020.

This scholarship has been established to continue Erin’s legacy and to give back to the community that provided so much support during the most difficult time.

Josh Kimberlin Endowed Scholarship

Josh Kimberlin was graduated from the University in 2012 with a mechanical engineering degree. Josh was a talented engineer, loving husband, and wonderful father. He was an avid fisherman, kid at heart, and will forever be a Jedi. Most importantly, Josh loved the Lord. Tragically, Josh lost his life in the Putnam County tornado on March 3, 2020.

This scholarship has been established to continue Josh’s lovable legacy and to give back to the community that provided so much support during the most difficult time.

Carroll Viera Appreciation Endowed Scholarship

Adedeji (Deji) and Iswat Badiru are delighted to endow a scholarship to honor Dr. Carroll Viera of the English Department at Tennessee Technological University. When Deji started at Tennessee Tech in January 1976, Dr. Viera (Then Dr. Carroll Miller) was a crucial early mentor to Deji as he began to study in the United States. When he was placed in her English course for international students, Dr. Viera saw that Deji's skills were good enough that he could meet the demands of a regular English class with American students. After completing that first course, Deji took all five of his remaining English courses in the regular sections. The challenge of these regular sections helped him to improve his English language skills far beyond what he could have accomplished in the international sections. Dr. Viera's perceptive guidance is a good example of how a teacher identifies potential in a student and helps the student to reach that potential. Deji thanks Carroll a great deal for the early encouragement that led to a solid foundation for his further academic progress, and for Carroll's mentoring example that Deji now strives to emulate with his own students. Later that year, when Deji's wife, Iswat, arrived from Nigeria to join him, Carroll helped them tremendously through the International Host Family program initiating a family relationship that has lasted for over thirty years and continues to grow stronger. Throughout their studies at Tennessee Tech, she played a direct role in their academic and personal progress, and in their children's welfare. Carroll regularly sent the children birthday and Christmas presents when they were young. She has been a mentor, academic advisor, confidant, and friend. She even provided financial support to them at critical times. She introduced the Badirus to American social life by hosting frequent dinners at her home at her own expense. By this act, she helped to bridge a cultural gap. Over the years, she continues to be a friend and a source of inspiration. Adedeji and Iswat Badiru want to thank her and wish to honor her through this endowment of the Carroll Viera Appreciation Scholarship.

Sid and Pat Gilbreath Appreciation Endowed Scholarship

Dr. Sid Gilbreath was a teacher, academic mentor, and professional role model in the Industrial Engineering Department at Tennessee Technological University. He was a teacher not only in the classroom, but also outside of the classroom. Adedeji (Deji) Badiru’s first encounter wil Sid was in 1977, when Deji declared a major in Industrial Engineering, at the conclusion of his freshman year in the Basic Engineering program. Dr. Gilbreath was the department head at that time. He was tough, yet nurturing administrator in the department. In his administrative role, he had access to Deji’s academic records, which he judged to be impressive and worthy of commendation. He invited Deji to his office and commented that he had the potential to become a first-rate industrial engineer. He was going to see to it that the department provided a supportive environment for Deji to reach his academic goals. Frankly, at that time, Deji did not understand why he singled him out for such a profound conversation with a sophomore. He was to later learn that retention of good students is just as important as recruiting them. Sid excelled at both recruiting and retaining students. Sid was not only a professional role model for Deji while he was an industrial engineering student, but also during his career, as a teacher, writer, researcher, and practitioner of the profession. If Sid and Deji had not had that single conversation, he might have changed his major to other enticing disciplines at that time. Sid probably never realized how far that mentoring conversation encouraged Deji professionally. In the Industrial Engineering Department, Sid quickly became Deji’s fatherly figure. With Sid’s sense of humor, he often cajoled students to higher levels of performance. His professional experiences outside the university often created amusing stories, which students and faculty looked forward to hearing. As Badiru continued his studies at Tennessee Tech and his subsequent Ph.D. program at the University of Central Florida, he encountered several personal, financial, and academic challenges. But Sid was always there to encourage, counsel, and rescue him at crucial times. In a letter of encouragement he sent to Deji at the University of Central Florida on September 27, 1982, he wrote, “It hurts me to know that you are so discouraged with your present circumstances. I remember well the discomfort accompanying strained finances and unfamiliar surroundings when I first started the Ph.D. program at Georgia Tech.” Sid and Pat went to offer help to get Deji and his family over the financial hurdle that they were facing at that time. Without that helping hand, Deji might not have been able to complete the Ph.D. program. For this, Deji and Iswat, his wife, continue to be thankful to the Gilbreaths for their acts of love and kindness. In subsequent conversations, Sid would not accept any thanks or repayment from Deji. Instead, he said, “Deji, someday, you will see others who are in need of help. You go ahead and help them. By doing that, you would be thanking me.” Adedeji and Iswat have continued to help others as a way of expressing their thanks to their benefactors. Adedeji and Iswat Badiru want to show their gratitude to Sid and Pat Gilbreath and wish to honor them with the Sid and Pat Gilbreath Appreciation Scholarship Endowment.

Adedeji and Isiwatu Badiru Endowed International Student Scholarship

Adedeji (TTU BS, MS, ME: 1979, 1981, 1982) and Isiwatu (TTU 1983) are forever grateful for the opportunity to study as international students at the University in the 1970s and 1980s. The educational experience enjoyed at Tech and the caring and supportive engagement of the campus community make it imperative that we give back to the University at our “widow’s mite” level so that other international students can enjoy what we enjoyed at Tech.

The depth and breadth of education that we received at Tech could not have happened anywhere else. Tech paved the way for our personal growth, career advancement, and professional accomplishments. The Tech faculty who figuratively adopted us as a family during our studies have continued to be our close family friends and supporters. During our undergraduate studies, Tech’s Cafeteria and the Physical Plant gave us on-campus jobs. This helped us not only to boost our financial resources, but also got us started on the employment record for USA Social Security later on. Tech is unique, valued, and greatly admired in this regard.

This appreciated legacy of Tech needs to be retained and sustained for generations to come. Our older son, who was born while we lived on the Tech campus in 1977, is now a senior engineer at General Motors in Michigan. He still considers Tennessee Tech’s “Tech Village” as his hometown.

The mission of the Tennessee Tech University College of Engineering [College] Advisory Council for Engineering [ACE] is to provide leadership promoting the continued development and improvement of the College in its vision of providing academic leadership on a regional and national level in support of its mission of teaching, research and service. The goals of this group are promoting beneficial industry/government relations, increasing alumni relations and improving resource development. ACE is comprised of alumni and industry leaders.

This scholarship is administered by the Agricultural Foundation. The Agricultural Foundation for Tennessee Tech focuses its resources on ways to enhance the education and college experience for students enrolled in any discipline within the College of Agriculture. Founded in 1972, the Foundation: • Brings together former students and graduates of Tennessee Tech with leaders in business, education and state and local governments to contribute and raise financial resources to support students; • Expands the awareness of the Tennessee Tech School of Agriculture with business and government leaders; • And, Recognizes the accomplishments of the School of Agriculture's Finest. The Foundation awards almost $25,000 each year in scholarships and awards to Tennessee Tech students. The Foundation also provides volunteers and financial resources to support many activities of the School of Agriculture such as the Academic Bowl, recognition for State and National FFA Officers, a Student Recognition Banquet, and Student Recruitment Efforts.

The Agricultural Foundation for Tennessee Tech focuses its resources on ways to enhance the education and college experience for students enrolled in any discipline within the School of Agriculture. Founded in 1972, the Foundation brings together former students and graduates of Tennessee Tech with leaders in business, education and state and local governments to contribute and raise financial resources to support students; expands the awareness of the Tennessee Tech School of Agriculture with business and government leaders; and, recognizes the accomplishments of the School of Agriculture's Finest. The Foundation awards almost $25,000 each year in scholarships and awards to Tennessee Tech students. The Foundation also provides volunteers and financial resources to support many activities of the School of Agriculture such as the Academic Bowl, recognition for State and National FFA Officers, a Student Recognition Banquet, and Student Recruitment Efforts. Several Agriculture Foundation Scholarships have been named for individuals. Agriculture Foundation Clyde Hyder Scholarship: W. Clyde Hyder was a distinguished representative of the ideals of excellence Tennessee Tech exemplifies - in both education and citizenship.

Mr. Hyder's dedication to Tennessee Tech spanned his years as a student, a teacher for 34 years, chairman of the animal science department, emeriti faculty member, and treasurer of the Agricultural Foundation. His numerous awards and honors include the Distinguished Alumnus Award and the Distinguished Agricultural Alumnus Award from Tennessee Tech, the Tennessee Tech Outstanding Faculty Award, the NACTA Interstate Distinguished Teacher Award, honorary State Farmer degrees, listing in several Who's Who publications, and membership on many boards for community and state service. HIs most notable achievement, however, was the indescribable influence he had on his students and acquaintances. Tommy Burks Agriculture Foundation Scholarship: Senator Tommy Burks was a man of integrity. He loved life and worked hard during his 28 years in the legislature, championing such issues as education, farming, public television, victims’ rights, and law enforcement. Born in Cookeville, TN, he attended schools in Cookeville and graduated from Tennessee Technological University in 1963 with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Agricultural Science. He was listed in Who’s Who Among Students in American Universities and Colleges. He received the 1984 Tennessee Tech University Distinguished Agriculture Alumnus Award and in 1991 was the recipient of the Tennessee Tech University Alumni Association’s Outstanding Service Award. In the General Assembly, he served as co-chair of the Fiscal Review Committee, secretary of the Education Committee, a member of the Energy and Natural Resources Committee, and chair of the Victims’ Rights Study Committee. He sponsored legislation establishing a reward for people who report and help prosecute litterers. He helped win a $1.9 million tax break for farmers by getting them exempt from sales tax on parts and labor for farm equipment repairs. Toward the end of the 100th General Assembly, Senator Burks was instrumental in obtaining a special funding allocation for the Joe L. Evins Appalachian Center for Crafts. He was one of the founders and leaders of the Tennessee Tech University Agricultural Foundation and was a key player in getting the Hyder-Burks Agricultural Pavilion constructed. Senator Burks was a founder and promoter of the DARE anti-drug programs in Tennessee and was a charter member and past president of the Monterey Lions Club.

Originating from Egypt, Dr. Ahmed H. ElSawy received his doctorate from Cairo University in 1977. He was hired by Tennessee Tech University in August 1999. His son, Ayman, received his Bachelor's degree in 2002 and his Master's degree in 2004 from teh TTU Electrical Engineering Department. As department chair for the Manufacturing and Engineering Technology Department at Tech, Dr. ElSawy has promoted leadership, creativity, innovation and initiative to his students. He has established this scholarship to retain second year undergraduate studetns studying Engineering Technology at TTU and to encourage creativity and innoviation throughout the department.

In a testament of their support of Tennessee Tech and its agriculture and education programs, W. Doyle and Melford Stone Smith have established this scholarship endowment to help incoming TTU freshmen from Dekalb County earn their education. Mr. Smith is a 1950 agriculture graduate who spent much of his career in the agrichemical business. The Smiths reside in Dekalb County, Tennessee.

The Robert F. Bode Memorial Scholarship in English was created in 2003 to honor his memory by supporting the academic career of a promising student who would add to the diversity of the university community. The scholarship was endowed by Alan Slotkin, his partner and colleague for 35 years, and supported by his friends and colleagues.

Robert F. Bode’s support of the university, its faculty, and its students was long reflected in his service as a classroom instructor, as Director of the University Self-Study, as Director of Planning, and as Chair of the Department of English prior to his retirement in 2002. In each of these positions, he worked for positive change and made Tennessee Technological University a better place for his having been there.

In honor of their daughters, Kerry Hamilton Smith and Andrea Hamilton Petera, Albert T. (Tom) and Linda Hamilton established this endowment to recognize the Hamilton family's interest in and support of the health professions. Kerry, BS and MD Texas A & M University, is a medical doctor of internal medicine; and Andrea, BS Radford University, is a registered nurse.

Tom Hamilton passed away in November 2023. 

Albert (“Al”) Cannella, P.E. was an engineering professor at Tennessee Technological University from 1962 until his retirement in 1987. Teaching and training young men and women to become engineers and to be prepared to contribute to the engineering needs of our country was Al's passion. Mr. Cannella obtained a degree in Civil Engineering in 1943, and a master's degree in Mathematics between his time serving in the military during WWII and the Korean War. His early teaching experiences at Villanova University and at West Point Military Academy during that time also fueled his love for the teaching profession. After working about 11 years as an analytical engineer in manufacturing and as a civil engineer in consulting, Mr. Cannella returned to his love of teaching, coming to Tennessee Polytechnic Institute (now Tennessee Technological University) in 1962. Mr. Cannella later earned another master's degree in Environmental Engineering and was an avid reader and lifelong student. Engineering students of Mr. Cannella enjoyed his practical teaching methods based on real-life engineering experiences, such as his home-constructed water treatment system, which served as a field trip for students. Mr. Cannella directed the Cookeville Model Cities program during a short leave from the University, during which time he worked to upgrade housing and infrastructure in Cookeville neighborhoods. He also committed many years to civic service with activities in Knights of Columbus, Cookeville Rotary Club, and Cookeville Breakfast Rotary Club. After retiring from Tennessee Tech, Mr. Cannella took on a new “career” of artisan blacksmithing, enjoying design and fabrication of metal artwork, being active in the Artist Blacksmith Association of North America. Al Cannella died in December 2012, at the age of 92. A memorial scholarship was established at the time of his death in honor of his passion for engineering academics and his desire for engineering students to be successful in their degree programs. This scholarship was established by Al's family, including his daughter, Alice '78 Civil Engineering. Alice is a member of the College of Engineering's Advisory Council for Engineering.

Allen A. McCampbell, Jr., a 1965 business graduate, is the retired Senior Vice President of American General Life and Accident Insurance in Nashville, and is a past president of the College's Board of Trustees. Allen is a past recipient of the Louis Johnson Outstanding Alumnus Award and a 1999 co-recipient of the TTU Distinguished Alumnus Award. He also serves on the TTU Foundation Board of Directors. Allen and his late wife Suzanne established the Allen A. McCampbell Scholarship in honor of Allen’s father, Allen A. McCampbell, Sr. Allen A. McCampbell, Sr. was a retired manager for Bell South. He was also a very strong believer in supporting the education of our youth to prepare them for the future. Allen and his late wife Suzanne established the Jess Mallory Scholarship in memory of Suzanne’s father. The McCampbells have solid ties to Tennessee Tech University.

This scholarship was established with a check from the settlement of the estate of Dr. and Mrs. Joseph Hix (spouse – Ethel), January 1976. The clerk was presented by Mrs. Marjorie Meadows (Mrs. John L.), Ethel’s sister and executrix of her estate. Dr. J. B. Hix and Mrs. Ethel Johnson Hix were Jackson County natives. Dr. Hix was a dermatologist in Altus, Oklahoma. He did undergraduate work at Peabody and earned his medical degree from the University of Nashville. He also did advance work at the Mayo Clinic and the New York Skin and Cancer Clinic.

Amber Flynn-Jared graduated from Tennessee Tech University in 2013, with her bachelor of science from the College of Interdisciplinary Studies. Amber came to Tech as a non-traditional student in hopes of finishing her degree so she could make a successful life for her children and herself. She found a warm and welcoming place in the College of Interdisciplinary Studies and was a scholarship recipient. She fondly remembers the empowerment and recognition she felt when she received her scholarship, and she would like to help others who are in a similar situation.

American Bank & Trust, a community bank with deep roots in the Upper Cumberland, opened the doors in 1979 in Livingston, Tennessee. Over the last three decades, the bank has experienced tremendous growth while opening two additional locations in Cookeville, Tennessee. A true community bank, American Bank & Trust focuses on outstanding customer service while providing a personal touch in banking that is so often lost in today's fast-paced world. In 2017, American Bank & Trust began a partnership with the College of Business by establishing the first Student Advisory Board for Banking at the University. Marty Maynord, CEO, and Ryan Smith, President, oversee the Student Advisory Board for the bank and were instrumental in establishing the concept and implementing the program in the College of Business. Both Mr. Maynord and Mr. Smith are graduates of the College of Business and now serve as alumni and student advisory board members. For over a decade, Mr. Maynord and Mr. Smith have dedicated their time and energy to assisting the College of Business on a number of fronts to provide additional experiential learning opportunities for students.

Edward (Ed) H. Jared was a 1957 business management graduate of Tennessee Tech. An avid supporter of the university, particularly the College of Business and Department of Athletics, Ed was always workign to promote his beloved alma mater, whether it be at a ball game or at a board meeting. He deeply believed that the university's top strength was its ability to provide outstanding educational opportunities to its students. This belief is shared by his wife, Wanda Livesay Jared, a retired instructor of English at Tennessee Tech. Though Ed passed away in June 2015, his vision and foresight for the future of the university led him to make estate provisions that will establish funds within the Department of Athletics, College of Business, and the Department of English to help students achieve their educational dreams.

The William A. Hogue Scholarships were established by Andrew and Jessica Hogue to honor the member of Andrew’s brother William (Willy) A. Hogue who was a widely respected and very well-liked senior at TTU at the time of his death in 1997. Willy, a marketing major, was an enthusiastic member of the Pi Kappa Alpha (PKA) fraternity, the rugby team, and was a WTTU DJ. Willy’s final act was as a part of a group climbing the Matterhorn in Europe.

Angie ’87 (Biology) and Eric ’87 (Electrical Engineering) both grew up in the Kingsport, Tennessee area. They met at a University Christian Student Center retreat. While they were in line waiting for lunch one day on campus, she mentioned she had never seen the second Star Trek movie. The entire group of students decided to see the movie on campus later on that week, and Eric was a part of the group. As the week went on, people started to drop out and Eric and Angie were the only two who went, and hit it off from there. Eric is the 1987 Derryberry Award winner and Angie is in the Tennessee Tech Athletics Hall of Fame for volleyball.

The Tech couple has a strong affinity for the University and the Tri-Cities area. They have established this scholarship to promote Tech in their hometown in hopes that more students will matriculate to the University and feel the same love for their alma mater that they do.

Ann and Kevin's son, Nick, died at a young age, 20 years. He loved music and pursued it with a passion. He began taking music lessons when he was about 12, beginning on the drums and eventually taking up the bass and guitar. He loved most types of music but the Beatles were his absolute favorite. Nick may not have been the most technically proficient musician, but his music came from his soul, and that is what Ann and Kevin most remember and wish to memorialize and pay forward to students who have the same passion and soul.

This scholarship was established in 1989 with a one-time contribution by The Credit Bureau of Putnam County, Inc. to form an endowment.

Dean of women for close to two decades, Elizabeth Murphy served as dorm mother, adviser, confidante, and disciplinarian to hundreds of young women. Mostly she served as friend. Murphy was so popular, in fact, that a delegation of honor students approached former President Everett Derryberry asking that a dormitory be named in her honor. Murphy Hall was dedicated in the fall of 1971.

Other students and graduates launched a scholarship endowment in her name when Murphy retired from the university. Over the years, the endowment has steadily grown, thanks to contributions from family and friends. The fund, known as the Elizabeth S. Murphy Scholarship Endowment, will support scholarships for women students who show financial need and academic achievement. I have many happy memories of Tennessee Tech, Murphy said. The students have always meant so much to me. It's my hope that the award will help future generations of them achieve their goals.

The Gerald D. Coorts Scholarship Endowment was established by Mrs. Annette Coorts, members of the Coorts family, and friends in memory of Dr. Gerald D. Coorts, Dean, College of Agriculture and Home Economics from 1985 to 1994.

The John and Hope Self Endowed Scholarship was established by their daughters and families in memory of John Robert Self and in honor of Hope Pearson Self.

John and Hope Self were proponents of farm to table practices long before it was a trend. Both were strong supporters of education and were particularly fond of Tennessee Tech University as an institution that supported the growth and development of young people in the applied sciences, particularly in agriculture and home economics. Though neither held degrees from TTU, their youngest daughter, Anni, graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Agriculture from TTU in 1983. Their oldest daughter, Lizabeth, joined TTU in 1979 as a faculty member in Human Ecology and later served as Dean of the College of Agriculture and Human Ecology.

John Robert Self was born in 1920 in Bulls Gap, Tennessee, son of Dr. and Mrs. J.C. (Georgia Carter) Self. Though his family lived in Bulls Gap, they spent summers on their large farm in Greene County. John served honorably in the United States Army in the infantry in Australia, New Guinea, and the Philippines during World War II. He worked for General Motors in Dayton, Ohio, for 41 ½ years. Shortly after moving to Ohio, John and Hope were featured in the Dayton paper for growing green beans in every spare inch of the back yard and freezing those beans for winter use. After moving to Waynesville, Ohio, John put in about an acre of garden and tended it in the evenings after working a full shift at GM. John loved being with his family and gardening and many family members and friends enjoyed his fresh produce for many years.

Hope Pearson Self was born in 1924 on a dairy farm in Persia, Tennessee, daughter of William Cornelius and Sarai Berry Pearson. Hope always loved school and became a home economics teacher after graduating from East Tennessee State University in 1944. She completed her Master’s Degree in Textiles and Apparel at the University of Tennessee – Knoxville and taught at Virginia Intermont College and the University of Dayton. She taught clothing construction in adult education programs in Miamisburg and Centerville, Ohio, and served as a 4-H advisor for many years in Warren County, Ohio. Though Hope did not enjoy being in the garden, she engaged fully when harvest took place, freezing and canning every vegetable and fruit delivered to the back porch. Hope was a charter member of the Home Economists in Homemaking (part of the American Association of Family and Consumer Sciences) in Ohio and continues to be an active supporter of the organization.

This scholarship is established to honor and remember the commitment of John and Hope Self to the practice and preservation of agriculture and home economics, and to support continued learning in these disciplines for the young people of Tennessee.

This scholarship was established by the American Legion Post 135, Dan Haskins and the Tennessee Technological University Army ROTC Alumni.

Esther Lee Welch Endowed Elementary Education Scholarship

Mrs. Judith Welch Barfield and Dr. Carolyn Harris Livingston ('59) along with members of their family, wish to establish The Esther Lee Welch Elementary Education Scholarship Endowment to honor their mother and aunt. Mrs. Welch's dedication to teaching has given her students and family the foundation to become honorable citizens and to achieve their goals.

Esther Lee Welch was born April 12, 1916 in Overton County, Tennessee to Jacob McMinnis Lee and Lou Boswell Lee. Her father, a graduate of Alpine Institute, taught school for ten years in Overton County. Her uncle, I. B. Lee, was Superintendent of Schools in Overton County, and her grandfathers, John Lee and Richard Boswell, were teachers as well. Esther attended elementary school at Happy Hollow in Overton County and graduated in 1934 from Pleasant Hill Academy in Pleasant Hill, Tennessee. Her family instilled in her and her two sisters, Claudia Phillips and Myrtle Harris, the value of an education and an eagerness for learning that inspired them to become teachers. In 1936, Esther began teaching at a one-teacher school at Muddy Pond in Overton County. She also taught at Anderson and Love Joy schoolhouses in Overton County until 1941. Throughout this time she worked on her degree, taking classes at Tennessee Polytechnic Institute and correspondence courses from the University of Alabama and University of Arkansas.

Esther married Hollis Lee Welch on January 25, 1941 and moved to Dayton, OH. She did not return to teaching until 1946 when she and her family moved back to Monterey, Tennessee where she taught fourth grade at Uffelman Elementary School. In 1951, she received her Bachelors Degree in Elementary Education from Tennessee Polytechnic Institute.

In 1957 her family moved to Chattanooga, Tennessee and she taught first grade at Elbert Long School until 1959. After moving on to Nashville she taught first grade at McGavock Elementary before retiring in 1981. She was awarded Teacher of the Year at McGavock, and was runner-up in Metro Nashville. Some of her teaching experiences have been spotlighted in Hilltop Express.

Shockey-Blanchford Returning Student Endowed Scholarship

Tennessee Technological University offers very high quality, practical, and affordable education to anyone willing to work hard for it. This education can take you as far as you want to go and has taken Art and Tonya Blanchford around the world and to the top of the business world as they remained grounded in family and friendships as well. They strongly believe that society is a weak-link organism, and only being as good as its weakest link. Therefore, they are committed to helping those who might not have another opportunity. Tech meets that, helping those who might not get access to other universities, but still with very high aims and ambitions.

Art graduated from Monterey High School, which didn’t have Physics or Calculus, so he was not accepted at other universities. Or if he was, those universities were out of his reach financially. He received a great mechanical engineering degree at Tech that allowed him to fly to the top of the automotive industry. He has stayed connected to Tech the whole time, donating at least a little bit every year since he graduated, volunteering for Baja SAE and the Sigma Chi Fraternity, and receiving the Outstanding Young Alumnus Award in 2006. He has also been very blessed in his family, mostly by marrying his wonderful wife, Tonya Shockey, almost 30 years ago, and having the gracious support of her parents who also attended and met at Tech.

Tonya attended three high schools due to her father relocating frequently in the Army.  She graduated from Dugway High School in Utah and went to Utah State for a year.  Her family relocated to the Eastern United States, so she transferred to Tech given her family was from Tennessee.  

Tech had everything she wanted although she was nervous about going to a school where she knew no one.  Being a shy introvert, Tonya was always nervous about making new friends. She was advised to go through Sorority Rush to meet people, and she developed friendships from that experience. Years later, some of those friends were in her wedding, and she’s still in contact with many of them today.   

She’s so grateful for the friendliness of the students and staff which helped her to transition from a school near her family to one far away.  She spent three and a half years at Tech, and she graduated with a bachelor’s degree in finance.

It is Art and Tonya’s pleasure to start this endowment, together with her parents, to give back to the University that has given them so much as well as to make access to this good life available to others through the doorway of a Tech education. With their son, Sawyer, pursuing his nursing degree at Tech, Art and Tonya have three generations positively affected by Tech and they want to make that available to others.

David and Donna Shockey are honored to be able to give a little back to Tech through the Shockey-Blanchford Returning Student Scholarship Endowment. Tech gave David the opportunity to overcome reading and learning disabilities, earn a bachelor’s and master’s degrees in civil engineering, and be a successful officer in the U.S. Army for 22 years. David also owned a consulting and construction company for about eight years, practiced as a professional engineer and project manager for about 18 years, and later in life become a beekeeper and mentor for veterans and others to become beekeepers for more than 12 years.

David was born in the mid-1940s, in Winchester, VA, with a reading and learning disability —something that was viewed as just being a problem kid — and he was not evaluated properly. Fortunately, his mother spent endless hours helping him learn to read and memorize his multiplication tables. During his primary and senior high schooling, he struggled as evidenced by his grades. In fact, he barely graduated from Frederick High School in Frederick, Maryland, in 1963. Only by the grace of God did he earn a “B” on his final senior math exam that elevated his overall GPA enough to graduate.

His mother insisted that he attend college. Due to his poor grades, he was not accepted at any of the colleges or universities where he applied. So, he attended a one-year college preparation program at Hagerstown Junior College in Hagerstown, Maryland. In the summer of 1964, he happened to run into an old high school friend, Ora Main. They started talking as usual about where they had been and what they had been doing since high school. When David told Ora of his dilemma about not getting accepted into a college, Ora immediately told David to apply to Tennessee Polytechnical Institute. “They will accept anybody, they did me.”

Ora’s high school grades were not much better than David’s. David went home and told his mother and father about Tech. David’s father promptly told him that he would buy David a Greyhound bus ticket if he wanted to go. A few weeks later in August, David was off to Tennessee Polytechnical Institute by Greyhound bus. It took a couple of days at that time because there were no interstate highways and the bus stopped at about every small town along the way.

When David arrived at the bus station, near the square in Cookeville, there was a taxicab sitting there. As soon as he got off the bus, the taxicab driver came over to David and a couple of other fellows and asked if they were going to Tech. They all indicated that they were. The taxicab driver gave them a free ride to Tech and dropped them off in front of Memorial Gym where they were met by a couple of upper classmen who became their guides for the next couple of days.

They were assigned a dorm room in Daniel Hall, taken to dinner in the old Student Union (now Oakley Hall) just across the quad and told to report to Memorial Gym the next morning. They were given first class treatment and assisted through every step of the application process and other activities associated with Freshman Orientation. David was accepted on probation and was assisted with his class schedule as he prepared for his return in September. When it was all over, they were given a free taxi ride back to the bus station and David returned home. This hospitality and friendly atmosphere were consistent throughout David’s five years at Tech.

In 1964, ROTC was mandatory for all male freshmen and sophomores, as was attendance for all students to the weekly Student Assembly in Memorial Gym. Everyone quickly started getting acquainted and friendships started developing. Pep Rallies were regularly held in Memorial Gym, and David believes that 90% of the students attended them. David recalls that the Pep Rallies were “a heck of a lot of fun for everyone.”

Near the end of the of his freshman year, he received a completely unexpected visit from the lead Tech cheerleader who stopped by his dorm room one evening. David only knew of the lead cheerleader from the Pep Rallies. The cheerleader asked if David would consider trying out for the Tech cheerleading squad. David thought; “WOW, unbelievable that a Yankee from Maryland would be asked to try out for the cheerleading squad.” He did and was on the cheerleading squad for the next three years.

Since David was on probation and had a reading and learning disability – which was not readily recognized, diagnosed, or accommodated in the 1960’s – David had to get serious about studying. Fortunately, his two roommates in Daniel Hall also had a need to study as well. All the teachers and professors at Tech were focused on everyone learning and attaining a passing grade in their courses. Freshman English Grammer101 was a mandatory prerequisite for moving forward. Again, David was extremely fortunate to have a professor who recognized that there were three young fellows in her class who were struggling: a basketball player, a farm boy, and David.

One day, she asked the three of them to stay after class and meet with her. She offered to tutor them a couple of afternoons each week until the final exam. She was very clear that she did not expect them to be able to pass the final exam unless she helped them. It was the Blue Book Essay Exam. They agreed, and they all passed the final exam. David still has his original copy of the “Harbrace College Handbook” 5th Edition used in that course.

This willingness to help students along the way was typical of most every professor that David had throughout his five years at Tech. Also, many professors offered work study opportunities as did two of his civil engineering professors both during the academic year as well as during a couple of summers.

Tech is where David met Donna, and they were married his junior year. Donna graduated from Monterey High School and attended Tech for a couple of years. She worked for Elizabeth Murphy, the Dean of Women at the time, and earned $1.25 per hour. Later she worked in the Department of Electrical Engineering. They will celebrate 56 years of marriage in December 2023 and have enjoyed traveling around the United States and the world.

David fully understands the need for financial assistance because he would not have been able to attend Tech for five years without financial support through a local bank in his home town (the president of the bank insisted that David produce his grades every quarter in order to get a loan), the extra monthly pay received by being in the Advanced ROTC program, and part time work provided by two of his professors in the Department of Civil Engineering. Earning an engineering degree in the 1960’s took five years, especially if one was participating in the Advanced ROTC program.

Donna and David desire to help as many students as possible though this scholarship endowment to have similar opportunities to what they had and ultimately to be successful in life.

The purpose of the Arts and Sciences Endowment is to provide for enrichment activities and program enhancements for departments in the College of Arts and Sciences. The Paul Austin Scholarship is funded and awarded annually from this endowment.

After earning their undergraduate and graduate degrees from the University, Kassam and Ashley Bhegani set forth with their two children to begin building the life they had dreamed of since high school.  After meeting at Hume-Fogg Academic Magnet High School in Nashville, Tennessee, the Bheganis have been preparing themselves to change the world for the better.  Kassam, the son of an immigrant father from Uganda, always knew he was destined to help others.  Ashley, hailing from South Nashville, was a serious student and used her strengths to become a successful business owner in middle Tennessee.  
 
The Bheganis experienced extreme financial strain while simultaneously working on their undergraduate degrees and being young parents.  Consequently, they have a strong desire to provide financial assistance to students who may be in a similar situation.  Kassam and Ashley hope this scholarship helps others achieve their dreams through educational opportunities for advancement.

The Asia Khatun Civil and Environmental Engineering Endowment has been established to honor the Civil and Environmental Engineering Department's history of producing excellent practicing engineers and to honor the mother of one of its more successful graduates, Mr. Ashraf Islam, a 1968 BSCE graduate. Mr. Islam's mother encouraged and supported his academic and professional careers.

Ashraf Islam, P.E., President and founder of A.I. and Associates, Inc., was born on July 31, 1946, in Bangladesh. He completed his early education in Bangladesh. Ashraf then chose to pursue his higher education in the United States. He went on to graduate in 1968 with a degree in Civil Engineering from Tennessee Technological University. During his years at Tennessee Tech, Ashraf was actively involved in social and political activities. He was nominated Vice President of the International Student Association in 1966 and later Chairman of the International Fair in 1967.

Upon graduation, he worked with consulting engineering firms in New York and New Jersey. During this time he was also a member of the Teaneck School Board Subcommittee for school reorganization.

Ashraf moved to Houston in 1981 to join Brown and Root, Inc., as a Civil Engineer. The year 1985 was a new beginning for him as it was then that he founded A.I. and Associates, Inc. The then small company has grown and flourished and now has branch offices in Dallas, Virginia, New Jersey, and New York. A.I. and Associates, Inc. celebrated its 10th Anniversary this year, having grown to a 40-member professional organization. Recognition and accolades have come from many directions and the company was ranked 24th amongst the first 100 fastest growing small businesses in Houston.

Apart from being a busy entrepreneur and engineer, Ashraf still managed to maintain his social and political activities. The Fort Bend County honored him in 1984 for registering more than a thousand voters. He was elected Precinct Chairman and member of the Executive Committee of the Fort Bend County Republican Party and has been a delegate to the Republican Convention since 1984. He was elected Director of the Kings Bridge Utility District in 1984 and served as President of the board for seven years. He was President of the Providence Civic Association from 1983 to 1985 and President of the Providence Homeowners Association in 1986. He was elected Vice President of the Tennessee Tech Alumni Association in 1983 and President in 1986. Also in 1986, a Fort Bend County judge appointed him to a review committee for the Fort Bend County Flood Control Policy. He has been appointed Director of Fort Bend County House Finance Committee by the County Commissioners Court in 1993. He was Chairman of the Transportation Committee of American Association of Civil Engineering Houston Chapter in 1985 and Vice Chairman of the Texas Chapter in 1986.

Ashraf Islam has also been actively involved in the activities of the Bangladesh Community Association in Houston and was elected their Vice President from 1986 to 1988 and President from 1988 to 1990. He is the founder member and President of the Bangladesh American Chamber of Commerce in Houston.

This scholarship was named in honor of retired professor, B. T. Parham. Professor Parham graduated from Tennessee Tech University in 1951 with a Bachelor of Science in Agricultural Science.

Barbara (BS in Business Administration, majoring in Accounting, class of 1983) and Jessie Brooks are the parents of Shelby Brooks. Shelby is a spring 2020 graduate from the Tennessee Technological University (TTU) School of Music, earning her Bachelor’s Degree in Music with a major in Music Education - Instrumental. Her family thoroughly enjoyed Shelby’s time at TTU by attending all home football games and concerts and seeing the results of the work put in by students and professors preparing these great performances. Due to the time commitment students experience during their two semesters of residency, their desire is to lessen the financial needs of a hard-working student in their last year of school.

Mrs. Barbara Garrett Scott provided the following explanation as to why she completed the funding for this scholarship. I am an alumna of Tennessee Technological University (B. A. in English, 1965) and a former instructor in the English department there from 1965-1968. My brother, James Allen Garrett, was also a graduate of Tech (1959). I was eight years older than Jim, and my sister, Jane, was two years younger than me. Jim was always a very special child to us and to our parents; he was the youngest, and he was the boy. Ours was not a very well off family financially. Our father was a barber. From the time that she was married until Jim was old enough for college, our mother did not work outside the home, but she went back to work full time as a department store clerk so that they could afford college for him. Our father was a self-taught guitar player and songwriter who played with musician friends as a hobby, but he wanted more education for his son than he had had. Neither my sister nor I inherited any musical talent - apparently it all went to Jim - but we know that Jim was indeed gifted musically and was widely respected by other musicians. We didn't want his name to be forgotten at Tech, and it seemed to me the best way to ensure that he is remembered is to see to it that the scholarship is fully endowed.

This scholarship was established in 1998 by TTU engineering alumni employed at Barge, Waggoner, Sumner & Cannon.

The Archie Rhinehart Endowed Scholarship was created in memory of Archie Rhinehart of Van Buren County by his father, Tennessee State Representative Shelby A. Rhinehart (1927-2002). Archie lost his life in a tragic accident while a sophomore at Tennessee Technological University.

BASF, headquartered in Florham Park, New Jersey, is the North American affiliate of BASF SE, Ludwigshafen, Germany. BASF has approximately 17,000 employees in North America and had sales of $18.7 billion in 2020. 
 
BASF creates chemistry for a sustainable future. They combine economic success with environmental protection and social responsibility. More than 110,000 employees in the BASF Group contribute to the success of their customers in nearly all sectors and almost every country in the world. Their portfolio is organized into six segments: Chemicals, Materials, Industrial Solutions, Surface Technologies, Nutrition & Care and Agricultural Solutions. BASF generated sales of $59 billion in 2020. BASF shares are traded on the stock exchange in Frankfurt (BAS) and as American Depositary Receipts (BASFY) in the United States.
 
Specifically, their Sparta, Tennessee manufacturing facility produces/uses: Nylon 6, Nylon 6/6 and Polyester colored specialty resins used for: Automotive– auto interior, mirror and window housings, Consumer and Industrial– power tool housings, furniture applications, Power Distribution and Telecommunications– electrical switches, wall plates, and Advanced color technology.

This scholarship endowment is being established to recognize Dr. Joy L. Henshall, a former Professor of Business and Associate Dean of Basic Business in the College of Business Administration at Tennessee Technological University.

Beth Null Dorris, a native of Sparta, Tennessee, holds a B.S. Degree in Journalism and a M.A. Degree in History from Tennessee Technological University in Cookeville. Beth first became interested in motivating high school students to seek higher education when she worked for Tennessee Tech as an admissions counselor. But it was many years later when she attended her daughters' graduation honors ceremonies that she realized how necessary scholarship opportunities are for young people wishing to pursue a higher education. Through her association with State Farm Insurance Companies as an agent in Springfield, Tennessee, and because of the company’s matching gift program, Beth is very proud to sponsor the State Farm-Beth Null Dorris Scholarship to be awarded annually to a Springfield High School graduating senior who will attend Tennessee Tech. The recipient of the award will be a deserving senior who has demonstrated through academic excellence and community service a desire to obtain a higher education in order to become a more productive member of society. Beth and her sister Linda also established the Floyd Null scholarship in honor of their father. Floyd Null graduated from White County High School in 1942. Following enlistment in the US Army, he served in combat in France and Germany during World War II where he won both a Purple Heart and a Bronze Star. After he returned from the war, he enrolled in Tennessee Polytechnic Institute and graduated in 1950 with a degree in accounting. Mr. Null worked for State Farm Insurance for twenty years. He also founded Sparta Office Supplies. The Floyd Null Memorial Scholarship is established to honor his dedication to hard work and integrity, his skill as an entrepreneur, and his love of learning.

The “Approach the Light” Becky Anderson Scholarship Endowment has been established in honor and memory of Rebecca (Becky) Danielle Anderson, a beloved daughter, sister, and friend of so many.

Becky was born on June 22, 1988 at the Cookeville General Hospital as the daughter of Roger and Debi Anderson and the little sister of Beth. Just before the delivery of their new baby girl, Roger prayed that Becky would have a quiet and gentle spirit. And throughout her eighteen years, Becky exuded such a sweet and loving personality that anyone who met her seemed to instantly fall in love with her.

As a youth, Becky was a “tomboy” and played several sports, including golf, softball, and basketball. She was a good athlete and a great team player. She also played guitar and loved music. Music and art were central to her personhood and are two things she is remembered for most. She was full of creative wit and expressed much of that through drawing, painting, and photography.

In her eighteen years, Becky probably had more true friends than most people have in their lifetimes. She truly was a fun-loving, creative, sweet, adorable, and funny person. In a word, she was simply lovable.

Becky left us on August 20, 2006, after suffering severe head trauma from a car wreck, involving four other individuals. She was life-flighted to Erlanger Hospital in Chattanooga where she was pronounced dead the next day. She had just graduated in May and had turned eighteen in June. Her college career at Tennessee Tech would have begun in just one week.

The wreck caused a ripple effect within the Cookeville community that was overwhelming. Over 2,000 individuals were present for her visitation and funeral. Every year on or around her birthday, her family and close friends make an effort to gather to celebrate Becky’s life. As the fifth-year anniversary of her passing approaches, her family has decided to create a more permanent memorial in honor of her. One that is both representative of her as an individual and that can exist to benefit others. A scholarship to Tennessee Technological University, where she was to attend, and more specifically, to the Appalachian Center for Craft where she most likely would have been a student, was decided upon.

The name “Approach the Light” comes from several sketches found in Becky’s drawing pad. The actual significance of the phrase to her is unknown, but the name itself seemed fitting to the effort that was being made in her memory. To “approach” means to “move towards,” while “light” is often associated with “goodness,” “beauty” and “truth.” It is in this effort to honor and celebrate Becky for who she was and her place in the world that, instead of dwelling upon our loss and the circumstantial tragedy surrounding her death, we choose to “approach the light.”

On June 3, 2011, friends and family gathered to support this effort by holding an event featuring live music, an art sale with pieces donated by local artists and craftsmen, and a silent auction with gifts donated by local Cookeville businesses, all the proceeds of which went towards the scholarship fund. T-shirts screen-printed with images of or by Becky, as well as copies of her original artwork, were also sold. As a community, we felt the shock of the wreck and resulting deaths. It seems only fitting that, as a community, we come together to establish such a memorial in her honor. And we hope to continue to “approach the light.”

Funds were provided by the family and friends of Mrs. Ruth Officer Dowell to establish a scholarship fund at Tennessee Technological University in memory of Mrs. Dowell.

Miss Betty Ragle is a 1946 graduate of Tennessee Technological University. Her experience as a long-time nurse in the Chamberlain Memorial Hospital in Rockwood, TN has led to her desires to establish this endowment for the Nursing Program of Tennessee Tech.

Miss Ragle enrolled at Tennessee Polytechnic Institute in 1943 with desires to be a nurse. Since the University did not at this time have a nursing program, Miss Ragle knew she would have to go elsewhere to complete her requirements to be a nurse. After graduating from Tennessee Tech in 1945, she fulfilled these requirements by attending the University of Tennessee at Memphis.

Immediately following her graduation from UT Memphis, Miss Ragle practiced her nursing skills at a local Memphis hospital. In 1961, after many years at two Memphis hospitals, Miss Ragle returned to her hometown, where she began working for what was the Baptist Hospital of Roane County. She continued to work here until her retirement in 1990.

The Department of Health and Physical Education proposed to establish a Raymond (Bull) Brown Scholarship Fund. HPE alumni and friends of Coach Brown donated the funds to establish this scholarship. Coach Brown was a student and athlete at Tennessee Tech and later taught and coached at Tech for many years. The purpose of this fund is to honor Coach Brown and outstanding students. Raymond Howard Bull Brown died Tuesday, September 18, 2012 at his home in Nashville, three days after his 100th birthday. A long-time resident of Cookeville, he had a distinguished career at Tennessee Technological University where he served for more than 30 years as a faculty member and coach, and where he was also a highly decorated student athlete. He graduated from Tennessee Tech in 1942 and served during WWII in the U. S. Navy. When he returned from the service, he enrolled in graduate school at the University of Tennessee, and also accepted a coaching position on the UT football staff. After completing his Master's Degree in Health and Physical Education at UT, he was named Athletic Director and Head Basketball Coach at Milligan College. He returned to his alma mater in 1947 as a faculty member and coach, and remained there until his retirement in 1980. He was known to his numerous friends as Bull, a nickname that he earned as a student athlete, and to the hundreds of students he coached and taught as Coach. During his student days at Tech, Coach Brown earned 15 athletic letters in four separate sports, more than any other student athlete in the University's history. He twice received the coveted Athletic Medal. His coaching career at Tech included eight seasons as Head Basketball Coach, Assistant Football Coach for seven years and Head Golf Coach for sixteen years. Tennessee Tech won three Ohio Valley Conference golf championships under Coach Brown's direction. He was also named OVC Golf Coach of the Year. He was inducted into the Tennessee Tech University Sports Hall of Fame in 1976, the Ohio Valley Conference Hall of Fame in 1980 and the Tennessee Sports Hall of Fame in 1983. The Raymond Bull Brown scholarship was established in his honor at Tennessee Tech in 1995. For a number of years, Coach Brown worked with WHUB in Cookeville as the Sports Director and host of a daily sports program. He also provided Play by Play commentary for the Putnam County high schools, and Tennessee Tech football and basketball games. Active in civic and community affairs, following his retirement, Coach Brown was a member of the Cookeville City Council for nine years and was elected Vice-Mayor for two council terms. He was appointed by Gov. Lamar Alexander and served as Chairman of the Tennessee Commission on Aging for eight years. As a long-time member of the First Baptist Church in Cookeville, Coach Brown served in a variety of volunteer roles and was a Sunday School teacher for over 40 years. He and his wife were among the founders of the Silver Point Mission and taught Sunday School there for the first 10 years of the Mission's existence.

Bhavna and Dinesh are establishing this scholarship in memory and in honor of Bhavna’s parents, Dayalal Lalji Vyas and Saraswati Dayalal Vyas. They both emphasized the importance of education for both genders, which resulted in all of their children graduating from college, two with Ph.D.'s, one with a medical degree, and four with Master's degrees. Bhavna’s father, Dayalal, passed away in 2006 and her mother, Saraswati, passed away in 2019. The Vyases left a legacy of having had very loving & caring relationships with all their children. This scholarship will benefit a graduate student in Mathematics, the degree that Bhavna received in 1990.

Bill Worrell ('68 BS HPE, '69 MA HPE) began coaching at Tennessee Tech University in 1981 as an assistant coach and then became head coach in 1968 until his recent retirement in 2006. During his tenure at TTU, he won 408 games, 12 regular season championships, 8 OVC tournament championships, and participated in the NCAA post season 8 times and in the National Invitational Tournament once.

Suzanne Worrell ('68 BS ED) met Bill at Tennessee Tech. She also graduated in 1968. She has been active in contributing as well as serving on the TTU School of Nursing Development Council over the years. Suzanne is a State Farm agent in Cookeville and has been using to Tech's advantage State Farm's corporate matching funds of her personal contributions.

This scholarship is established to honor Bill Byrd who donated a herd of Saler cattle to the School of Agriculture in 2001. A portion of the herd was kept for breeding purposes and the remainder was sold to establish the scholarship. The $20,000 earned from the sale has been invested in the Agricultural Foundation for Tennessee Tech to support a scholarship for a student interested in purebred beef cattle. His intentions were to be an asset to the School of Agriculture teaching program through the donation of the Salers cattle. Earnings from the endowment are fully funded to establish the Emory Valley Farms Scholarship.

This scholarship was established by the family of Carole-Jean Adkisson who was a faculty member in the School of Nursing for seven years. She was a dedicated teacher, beloved by her students, and a committed professional nurse. She once said, Nursing is not my job, it is a part of my identity to the world and to myself.

The L.W. Legge Agency and Bill Legge, Jr. established the L.W. Legge Agency Inc. Scholarship Endowment in the College of Business in support of TTU’s “Sharing the Vision” capital campaign because of the university’s impact on the community. The L.W. Legge Agency was founded in Cookeville, Tennessee, by L.W. Legge, Sr. in 1946 and grew into the largest independent insurance agency in this region. In October 2004, BB&T Insurance Services expanded its Tennessee operation with the acquisition of the L.W. Legge Insurance Agency and is now called BB&T-Legge Insurance. Through their partnership with Tennessee Tech, highly motivated and talented students who may not have the means to finance a college education will have an opportunity to pursue their dreams aided by this scholarship.

Sara (Sadie) Rosson and her brother Bill Rosson established this endowment in memory of their father, William M. Rosson, a 1946 graduate of Tennessee Tech. Mr. Rosson was a Navy veteran of World War II and a successful businessman.

Winston and Billie Jo Welch Bowling wish to establish a scholarship to assist outstanding young students. Mrs. Bowling is a 1955 Accounting graduate from Tennessee Polytechnic Institute. She was a member of the faculty at TPI for two years. Mrs. Bowling has resided in Murfreesboro since 1960.

The family of Dan and Chase Foster have established this scholarship to honor the memory of these men, taken before their time, by helping new generations of agriculturists succeed in their academic careers.

Billy Daniel (Dan) Foster was born April 26, 1950 in Clovis, New Mexico to Bobbie Lou Kent and Billy Joe Foster. He graduated high school in Darrouzett, Texas in 1967, attended Tarleton State University and graduated from Texas Tech University with a B.S. in Animal Production. Later he completed his M.S. in Agricultural Technology from the University of Arizona.

Dan & Billye Berry were married in 1974 and lived in Northeast Texas for 21 years before moving to Arizona. Both Billye and Dan worked at the University of Arizona for 14 years. In 2010 they moved to Cookeville, TN where Billye became the Director of the School of Agriculture and Dan, now retired, became a gentleman farmer and Billye's greatest supporter. Dan was gifted with mechanical ability, working with livestock and in raising sons. He spent his career as a parent as the rock of the family. He passed away unexpectedly November 25, 2012.

William Chase Foster was born on December 28, 1983, the middle of three sons born to Dan & Billye Foster, in Paris, Texas. Chase was eleven when the family moved to Arizona. An alumnus of the University of Arizona, Chase was a proud Arizona Wildcat fan, a talented musician playing a variety of string instruments including the piano. Chase, like his father, was gifted mechanically and had joined the Navy headed for the nuclear engineering program. He believed in the value of family and friends and strived to support others as well as achieve his own dreams. Chase was killed in a vehicle accident December 17, 2009.

This endowment was established with the proceeds from the sell of a 2.5 acre tract and dwelling that was received by Tennessee Technological University from the estate of Dr. Lester R. and Mary P. Dudney. Dr. and Mrs. Dudney desired that the fund be used to support environmental education and protection of wildlife. Tom Hamilton, Associate Vice President of University Development, discussed establishing a formal agreement for use of the endowment with Mr. John Larry Dudney, executor of the Dudney estate, on September 8, 2006. Mr. Dudney agreed that Dr. and Mrs. Dudney's desires would best be met by placing the endowment under the administration of the Biology Department. Further, Mr. Larry Dudney stated that he had neither need nor the desire to be a signatory of the letter of agreement and that the Biology Department at Tennessee Tech was free to use the endowment at its discretion.

Cleo Nash Dennis was born and raised in Baxter, Tennessee. She married B.J. Dennis of New York, New York, in 1951. For several years, they lived in Baxter and owned and operated the local H&N Campbell Grocery store. Although they moved to California many years ago, their love for the Baxter area continued as evidenced by this wonderful estate gift to help Upperman High School students.

The Amy Alvey Scholarship has been established to honor Amy Morton Alvey, who attended Tennessee Technological University from 1977 through 1979. Mrs. Alvey completed her college education at Union University as she married and moved to Jackson, Tennessee in 1979. Mrs. Alvey served on the faculty at Union University, and raised two children. During these years, she served tirelessly as a volunteer in multiple roles in support of the students and staff in the public schools of Jackson-Madison County. The scholarship was created by her husband (Robert Alvey, '77 Electrical Engineering alumnus) to honor her selfless service to others.

This endowment has been established by Mr. Bob Allen and Mrs. Janice Allen of Cookeville, Tennessee.

Parents, friends, and members of the Upper Cumberland District of the Boy Scouts of America created the Eagle Scout Scholarship Endowment in 1992 to provide funds for scholarships for students who have achieved the Eagle Scout rank. Several upperclassmen Eagle Scout Scholarships have been named in memory of individuals who made significant contributions to the Boy Scouts of America.

Mr. Edward E. Townsend was born in Young Harris, Georgia and graduated as the valedictorian from Towns County High School in Hiawassee, GA in 1944. During WWII he volunteered for service in the U.S. Army Air Corps and entered the military just before his 18th birthday. He was discharged in August 1946. After marriage and attending universities in Georgia and Indiana, Mr. Townsend moved to Cookeville and enrolled in Tennessee Tech on June 6, 1949, which at that time was known as Tennessee Polytechnic Institute (TPI). In June 1951 he received a Bachelor of Science degree with a major in civil engineering and a minor in math.

Mr. Townsend's civil and structural engineering career spanned over 45 years, during which time he worked for the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA), Stevens and Wilkinson Architects, Bowater Paper Co., Rust Engineering Co., Hensley-Schmidt Engineering Co., and culminating at March Adams and Associates located in Chattanooga, TN. During those years he was involved in over 50 engineering projects, mostly in the southeastern United States, but also in Canada and New Zealand. He was instrumental in the structural design on numerous additions at Erlanger Hospital located in Chattanooga, including the Miller Eye Center and the T.C. Thompson Children's Hospital; and was responsible for much of the structural design on such Chattanooga landmarks as the Roundhouse (now the McKenzie Arena) at UTC, the Chattanooga Trade Center, and the IMAX Theater. He was a member of the American Society of Civil Engineers and the Society of Tennessee Tech Engineers.

Mr. Townsend was a resident of Cleveland, TN. He was a member of the First Baptist Church, serving many years as a deacon; and the International Lions Club, where he held positions as the president and the treasurer, and was responsible for many years for that club's Save Sight Program.

Bob Langley, a native of Louisville, Kentucky, graduated from Lindsey Wilson Junior College, Columbia, Kentucky in 1949. He received a basketball scholarship to Tennessee Polytechnic Institute in 1949 and continued through 1951. Bob received a Bachelor of Science degree in Education in 1951. After graduation, he joined the United States Air Force. In 1953, he graduated from the USAF Aviation Cadet Program earning a commission and pilot wings. While serving in the Air Force, Bob received a Bachelor of Science Degree in Aeronautical Engineering from the University of Illinois, Champaign, Illinois in 1963, a Masters of Business Administration Degree from the University of Dayton, Dayton, Ohio in 1967 and did post graduate studies at the University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah in 1971. After 20 years of service, he retired as a United States Air Force Pilot in 1971. Bob joined the Tennessee Technological University College of Business Administration Faculty in 1971. He serves as a faculty member in the Department of Decision Sciences.

Bob and Rebecca Langley were married in 1953. Rebecca is a native of Cookeville, Tennessee. She attended Tennessee Polytechnic Institute from 1950 to 1953. She received a Bachelor of Science Degree in Education from Whittenburg University, in Springfield, Ohio in 1965. She then went on to receive her Masters Degree in Education from the University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah in 1970. Rebecca retired in 1992, after a 27 year career of teaching in Ohio, Utah, and Tennessee.

Bob and Rebecca have three children: Michael, Terri, and John. All three received their MBA from Tennessee Technological University. All the children agree that the MBA had a significant effect on their career paths.

Robert (Bob) and Robbie Gower are long-time supporters of Tennessee Tech. Both are graduates of the university: Bob in 1965 with a degree in electrical engineering and Robbie in 1964 with a degree in secondary education. For over two decades now, Bob and Robbie have focused their support of Tennessee Tech to the College of Engineering and in particular, the Electrical and Computer Engineering Department. This fund is a continuation of that commitment.

The Algood Carlen Scholarship fund was established in 1975 in memory of Mr. Algood Carlen by his heirs. The intent of the fund was to provide scholarship support where needed by the university. In 1999, the scholarship was renamed after both Algood and his wife, Elizabeth, making the name of the scholarship the Algood and Elizabeth Carlen Scholarship Endowment.

This scholarship was established by the friends and family of Georgia Hargis. Mrs. Hargis was a high school math teacher, and the scholarship is awarded to an education major to honor her love for teaching.

The Hix and Ann Stubblefield Journalism Scholarship was established in 1999 to honor the exemplary service and many contributions of Hix and Ann Stubblefield to the English-Journalism program at Tennessee Technological University and to the hundreds of students who participated in student publications at the university during their tenure.

Hugh Hix Stubblefield retired from Tennessee Tech in December 1999 following a 37-year career of teaching journalism courses and advising student publications. During his tenure, the Oracle, the student newspaper, and the Eagle, the university's yearbook, garnered numerous awards for excellence while providing students with relevant, practical work experiences. And, in 1975, the National Council of College Publication Advisers named him to the Honor Roll of Advisers for his work with student publications at Tennessee Technological University.

Ann Blair Stubblefield taught composition in the Tennessee Tech English Department from 1963 to 1966 and from 1971 to 1993. During her tenure, she shared with hundreds of students her love and appreciation for the English language as well as her interest in journalism and writing.

The family of Ezra H. Carwile and the employees of Carwile Mechanical Contractors, Inc., Cookeville, Tennessee are proud to establish this scholarship in memory of Ezra H. Carwile.

Ezra H. Carwile was born May 21, 1927, in Jackson County, Tennessee and attended Jackson County High School. After serving in the United States Air Force, he attended Tennessee Polytechnic Institute on the GI Bill, studying refrigeration and heating and air conditioning. After completing these studies, he married Lucille Masters and shortly thereafter started his career in the service department at John E. McCluen Company in Cookeville.

In 1961, he established what is now known as Carwile Mechanical Contractors, Inc. Ezra remained semi-active at the company until his death on September 10, 2005. Ezra was always a strong supporter of education and Tennessee Tech University. He often hired TTU students in the summer months to work at the company with the understanding that they would return to school in the fall. He knew from his own experiences overcoming the odds that an education, coupled with perseverance and hard work, could create success for anyone.

Ezra was proud that so many of his family had graduated from TTU, including his son, Gary W. Carwile; daughter, Janice Carwile Hodum; son-in-law, Dr. Robert L. Hodum; grandchildren, Rachel Carwile McDonald, Josh Carwile, and Erin Carwile; grandson-in-law, Brandon McDonald; and grand daughter-in-law, Emily Heinrich Carwile. Also through the years, Carwile has employed many TTU graduates who contributed to the success of the company.

The family and employees of Carwile Mechanical Contractors, Inc. are happy and blessed to be able to establish this endowment to help carry on the academic excellence at TTU for the young men and women of today who will be the leaders of tomorrow. It is their hope that the heritage of integrity, kindness, and perseverance left by Ezra H. Carwile will encourage them to succeed.

Bobby and Jean Davis have followed the development of the Whitson-Hester School of Nursing since the first undergraduate class was admitted in the Fall of 1980. The school now also offers graduate nursing degrees and post-graduate certificates, and they have enjoyed watching the school grow and progress to its current level.

Both Bobby and Jean have served on the Whitson-Hester School of Nursing Development Council. They both had careers in healthcare – Jean in nursing and Bobby in pharmacy. They were both also active in city government, and each of them has served as Mayor of Cookeville. Bobby and Jean are establishing this endowment as a way to thank the University, and they know how important nurses are to the communities they will serve.

This endowment was established through contributions in memory of Fannie Rice (Fice) Lawson, wife of Dr. Hoyle D. Lawson, former Vice President of Student Services at Tennessee Technological University. With this award, Mrs. Lawson is recognized for her dedication to the Kappa Delta Sisterhood.

This endowed scholarship is being established by Bob Oglesby, a 1962 Engineering Chemistry graduate of Tennessee Polytechnic Institute (TPI). Mr. Oglesby believes the quality education he received at Tennessee Tech gave him a strong foundation for his success in life, and he desires to provide a deserving student that same educational opportunity.

Mrs. Brenda Albright, a 1968 graduate of Tennessee Tech, established this scholarship in appreciation for the education and overall positive experience she had while attending this TTU. Growing up in the Upper Cumberland, Mrs. Albright came to know of the excellent opportunity TTU offers to this rural region and beyond.

In 1990, Brenda Elrod conceived the idea of having TTU employees help with the funding for a scholarship. She wanted more help for some of the many students she saw daily in the Financial Aid Office who needed additional financial assistance to stay in school. She worked with University Advancement and Human Resources to put processes in place for employees to contribute through payroll deductions. She asked faculty and staff to pledge a minimum of $1 per month to fund this scholarship. As a result of her efforts, hundreds of employees pledged, and many continue to support this scholarship today. In recognition of Brenda's leadership in developing this scholarship for deserving students and upon her retirement after 34 years of service to TTU, the scholarship has been renamed the Brenda Elrod TTU Student Educational Scholarship. 

Brenda passed away in March of 2023, but her husband continues to receive updates about her scholarship. 

Mrs. Brenda Norman Albright, `68 English, established the Brenda Norman Albright Scholarship in appreciation for her education and the overall pleasant experience attending Tennessee Tech. Growing up in the Upper Cumberland, Mrs. Albright came to know of the excellent opportunity Tennessee Tech offers to this region and beyond.

Mr. Charles H. Albright established the Charles H. Albright Civil Engineering Scholarship. Mr. Albright had an exciting, fast-paced 46 year career in the planning, designing, constructing, and managing of all aspects of projects in the electrical power business. He admires the self-reliant nature of Tennesseans, in particular those who live in the Upper Cumberland area near the University. Higher Education is an everlasting gift from his father that he wishes to share with future generations.

Mrs. Dinah Pistole Bivens was born on the family farm in White County, Tennessee to Eugene and Virginia Pistole. Dinah was active in 4-H throughout her years in school. She was also an all-star basketball player for the White County Warriorettes. Dinah received All-District and All-Region awards for her tenacious defense as a guard on the basketball team. Dinah received her Bachelor's Degree in Education from Tennessee Technological University and a Master's Degree in Counseling from the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga, graduating with a 4.0. Dinah was beloved by her students and fellow faculty members during her career of over thirty years at Bradley Central High School. She began as a classroom teacher, and after working to get her degree in counseling while working full-time and raising a family, she became a guidance counselor. Dinah spent countless hours assisting her students with school work and life. She was always willing to go the extra mile to assist her students who were in need of her support and her caring professional skills. While Dinah was at Tennessee Tech she met and married her husband of 47 years, Steve Bivens. Together they had two sons, Mike and Brian Bivens. The thrill of her life was her three grandsons, John, Henry, and Steele.

The Wetzel-O'Connor Endowed Scholarship in Percussion is established by Susan and Brian O'Connor in memory of Susan's parents, Richard and Barbara Weitzel, of Fairfield Glade, Tennessee. The Weitzels were supporters of the Music Department at the University in part because of their son-in-law Brian, a mathematics professor who sang in the University's student choral groups for 40 years, and especially because of their grandson, Kevin O'Connor, who has been a long-time associate of the Percussion Studio at the University.

Bridgestone/Firestone, Inc. is committed to the idea that pursuing education is mutually beneficial to an employee's personal goals, and the Company's objectives. It is further recognized that BFS's future growth depends on having well-trained employees. Therefore, BFS wishes to demonstrate its appreciation for the quality of Tennessee Technological University's Engineering education, as Engineering serves as a solid foundation for BFS's primary business function - to serve its diverse customer base by engineering, manufacturing, and marketing the highest quality products, and providing superior customer service.

Jon “Ironman” VanDoran was a lover of life who looked for opportunities to help others, challenge himself, and impact his community. Despite his paraplegia from an unfortunate incident at birth, Jon achieved a high degree of satisfaction in life by discovering and creating ways to drive a motorcycle, do martial arts, swim and scuba dive, play in several bands, kayak, rappel, and climb. Through his experience in machining and working on his own Harley Davidson motorcycle and vintage trucks, Jon developed a love for creating and working with his hands.   A non-traditional student, his goal was to pursue a degree in mechanical engineering in order to design adaptive sporting and outdoor adventure equipment for kids and adults with disabilities whose desire is to enjoy life to its fullest. Jon succumbed to Angiosarcoma in the summer of 2015 and was unable to fulfill this educational goal. It is the mission of this scholarship fund to fulfill Jon’s goal of helping others reach their career potential and push their limits.

Edward (Ed) H. Jared was a 1957 business management graduate of Tennessee Tech. An avid supporter of the university, particularly the College of Business and Department of Athletics, Ed was always workign to promote his beloved alma mater, whether it be at a ball game or at a board meeting. He deeply believed that the university's top strength was its ability to provide outstanding educational opportunities to its students. This belief is shared by his wife, Wanda Livesay Jared, a retired instructor of English at Tennessee Tech. Though Ed passed away in June 2015, his vision and foresight for the future of the university led him to make estate provisions that will establish funds within the Department of Athletics, College of Business, and the Department of English to help students achieve their educational dreams.

Bruce Wicinski wishes to memorialize his wife, Judy, with a scholarship. Judy was a caring and strong advocate for continuing education for students in Tennessee. To honor her, Bruce wants to support the University, but with preference to nursing students because of the wonderful care that Judy received. Bruce received support from Judy during his schooling, and he hopes that her legacy of supporting education will continue through this scholarship. Bruce wishes to give other students in need the support that he received from Judy.

Barton L. Rossnagel was born on August 18, 1951 into a military family that instilled into him and his three siblings the virtues of frugality, self-discipline, a sense of responsibility, self-reliance, honor, and love of county from birth through early adulthood.
 
Around the age of seven, Barton’s family moved to Nashville, Tennessee, where he attended grammar school and was graduated from Two Rivers High School. Upon graduation he attended the University as an engineering student. Lacking significant financial resources, Barton lived on a very tight budget and worked in the co-op program with NASA in Huntsville, Alabama to pay his way through college. He was graduated in 1974 with a Bachelor’s Degree in Electrical Engineering. In 1971, Barton married Anita Gross, from Fayetteville, Tennessee. After graduating from Tennessee Tech, Barton continued his education at Texas A&M University in Texarkana, Texas, earning a Master’s Degree in Engineering.
 
Barton settled and currently resides in Fayetteville with his wife, Anita, and their two children, Lisa and Brad. He has dedicated the majority of his career to working as an electronic design engineer for defense contractors in the Huntsville, Alabama area. Following retirement, Barton has navigated a second successful career as the Chief Design Engineer for Sentry Air Systems, Inc., an air filtration products company.
 
Through both of his careers, Barton made significant contributions to our country’s defense technology, and he continues to make contributions through the innovative development of products designed to improve indoor air quality and protect the air we all breathe.
 
Most importantly, as a man, Barton is strong, kind, good natured, and humorous. He brightens up any room or conversation he enters. He is an excellent father, husband, son, brother and friend. He is a spiritual leader and elder of his church. Barton sets an example of a life well lived and is treasured and irreplaceable.
 
The objective of this scholarship is to honor Barton by helping a financially challenged young person of similar character, faith, and values obtain an education and grow to become a productive and high character member of society, and to pass on the values that are the legacy of Barton’s life.

The Henry Dreyfus Teacher-Scholar Awards Program supports the research and teaching careers of talented young faculty in the chemical sciences at undergraduate institutions. Based on institutional nominations, the program provides discretionary funding to faculty at an early stage in their careers. The award is based on accomplishment in scholarly research with undergraduates, as well as a compelling commitment to teaching.

Prof. Jesse D. Carrick of the TN Tech Chemistry Department won a Henry Dreyfus Teacher Scholar award in 2022 for his research proposal entitled: “Synthetic Approaches to Minor Actinide Separations from Lanthanides Contained within Spent Nuclear Fuel.” Prof. Carrick’s lab is working on designing, preparing, and testing molecules to specifically bind to select f-elements of the periodic table which are common byproducts of nuclear fission.

A portion of the funds from this award will be utilized to initiate a fellowship in the department of chemistry to support experiential research opportunities for students during the academic year. Prof. Carrick chose to name this fellowship in honor of his Ph.D. mentor, Prof. Michael P. Jennings of The University of Alabama, who passed away January 11, 2022 at the age of 46, leaving behind a wife and three young daughters. Prof. Jennings was a brilliant scientist and wonderful person who was loved by all who had the honor of knowing him.

The Carl W. Stiner Warrior Scholarship was established to honor General Carl W. Stiner and to support the Special Operations Warrior Foundation in its efforts to provide a college education to active duty or retired service members of Special Operations or their dependents.

General Stiner has always recognized the importance of an education in his achievements and success. He also has a great love for his fellow soldiers who defend our great country and often made the supreme sacrifice. This scholarship will support the Warrior Foundation’s efforts to help provide educational opportunities for Special Operations Forces and their dependents.

Carl W. Stiner is a 1958 graduate of Tennessee Technological University with a B.S. in Agriculture Science. He received a Master’s degree in Public
Administration from Shippenburg State University in Pennsylvania in 1975. He also attended the United States Army Command and General Staff College in 1967 and the Army War College in 1975.

General Stiner is one of six general officers who graduated from Tennessee Tech and the first to achieve the four star rank. His military career spanned 35 years of commanding, decision making, and problem solving at all levels of the Army from second lieutenant platoon leader to Commander in Chief, United States Special Operations Command as a four star general. As such, he was responsible for the readiness of all special operations forces of the Army, Navy, and Air Force, both active and reserve.

He and his wife, the former Carolyn Sue Reeves, currently reside in his home town of LaFollette, Tennessee. They have two daughters, Laurie and Carla. Laurie attended North Carolina State University. Carla is a graduate of East Tennessee State University.

General Stiner was awarded the Defense Distinguished Service Medal with two Oak Leaf Clusters, the Distinguished Service Medal with two Oak Leaf Clusters, the Defense Superior Service Medal with Oak Leaf Cluster, Legion of Merit with Oak Leaf Cluster, Purple Heart, Meritorious Service Medal with two Oak Leaf Clusters, Air Medal with three Oak Leaf Clusters, Army Commendation Medal with two Oak Leaf Clusters, Freedom Foundation Award, Combat Infantryman Badge, Master Parachutist Badge, and Ranger Tab. General Stiner received awards from Tennessee Technological University including the TTU Distinguished Alumnus Award in 1991 and induction into the ROTC Hall of Fame.

Amy Davidson, a 2005 graduate of the Grier School, an all-girls high school in Tyrone, Pennsylvania, enrolled at Tennessee Tech and studied at the University's Appalachian Center for Craft in Smithville. She worked in the office and gallery at the Craft Center while pursuing her Fine Arts degree in Fibers. Amy had a soft spot for children and enjoyed helping people. She hoped to someday use crafts as a way to work with disabled children. Amy loved weaving, knitting, crocheting, reading books, watching movies, and listening to music. She studied the cello at an early age, and later the violin and piano. In high school, Amy enjoyed lighting theatrical and dance productions. Amy was also well traveled. In 1996, Amy spent two weeks in Nuevo Laredo, Mexico with her mother, doing volunteer work with her church. In 2004, she toured Spain, Portugal, and Morocco with her high school Spanish class. That summer, Amy toured Australia and New Zealand with her father and members of the Hahn family. Upon Amy's passing while a student at Tennessee Tech, her family and friends wish to establish an endowment in honor and in memory of her.

The Sandlin/Exxon Annual Scholarship is provided by TTU Class of 1971 Chemical Engineering graduate Carl Sandlin and the Exxon Mobil Corporation Matching Gifts Fund. Mr. Sandlin was recognized as 2007 TTU Engineer of Distinction and serves on the Chemical Engineering Department Advisory Board and is a founding member of the TTU Friends of Music.

Members of the Carlen and Maddux families established the Algood and Elizabeth Carlen Scholarship and the Bob Lee and Lorelle Maddux Scholarsip. The Algood Carlen Scholarship fund was established in 1975 in memory of Mr. Algood Carlen by his heirs. The intent of the fund was to provide scholarship support where needed by the university. In 1999, the scholarship was renamed after both Algood and his wife, Elizabeth, making the name of the scholarship the Algood and Elizabeth Carlen Scholarship Endowment. The Bob Lee and Lorelle Maddux Scholarship was established as a memorial tribute by their children in 1987. Mr. and Mrs. Bob Lee Maddux were life-long residents of the Upper Cumberland Region of Tennessee. After the death of their son, David H. Maddux, his widow, Lorraine Maddux, requested that the name of this scholarship now include his name. The scholarship is intended to recognize the affection the Maddux family felt for the Upper Cumberland Region, for its people, and for Tennessee Technological University. It is also given as a continuing expression of their interest in the education and development of young men and women.

The Nichols Freshman Art Scholarship is named for the late Elizabeth Nichols Whitson, a 1926 graduate of Tennessee Polytechnic Institute (now TTU) and the mother of Carolyn Whitson. She was an active member of the Cumberland Arts Society and participated in various local arts and crafts shows. Drawing and handicrafts have been a part of the Nichols family for three generations.

“I cannot remember when I was not drawing, and she (my mother) became an art critic, as well as a faithful supporter of my work. During my school days, there was very little formal art instruction available locally for those who enjoyed drawing. It is my hope that this scholarship will assist and encourage incoming TTU students to pursue art as a major and, as a result, will provide school-age students with opportunities to receive the formal art instruction that we did not have. It is with this in mind that the Nichols Freshman Art Scholarship has been established.” Carolyn Whitson

When Carrie King looks back on her college experience, it is with profound gratitude that she graduated college with zero debt. Any additional expenses outside of what her scholarships could cover, such as those for books or room and board were covered by her great aunt Grace Catron. Carrie never had to worry if she could afford a semester of college or if she would be required to spend time with financial aid figuring out how to get loans to pay the difference. The best way she could honor the memory of her aunt, who valued her college education and the subsequent opportunities she was afforded after graduation, is to fund a scholarship that will help others in a similar journey.

The Annie Mae Grant Nursing Scholarship was originally established by Mrs. Vivian B. Fraser in 2005 in memory of her mother, Annie Mae Grant. Ms. Grant always had the desire to be a nurse but was never able to do so. In 2016, the scholarship was re-named to include Mrs. Fraser's name on the scholarship as well. Mrs. Fraser passed away in 2012. The Richard H. Fraser Scholarship provides for enrichment activities and program enhancements for departments in the College of Arts and Sciences.

Catherine Brock passed away in October of 2020.

Alma Ruth Hagan Hix Endowed Scholarship
Through this scholarship, the family of Alma Ruth Hagan Hix (1917-1997) honors the life of a loving mother who valued learning and preserving our environment for future generations.

Opportunity Endowed Scholarship
Dr. Cathy Hix is a registered dietitian, emerita professor and former director of the undergraduate dietetics program at the University.  After more than 40 years of service to the University and community, she is now a resident of Algood and a native daughter of Red Boiling Springs.  She is the ninth child of 12 and the daughter and niece of wonderful cooks.  She earned her doctorate from the University of Tennessee Knoxville in the Animal Science Department and conducted her post-doctoral research in genetic toxicology at the Environmental Protection Agency’s labs in Research Triangle Park.  She was also named a fellow for the American Council on Education in Higher Education.

Dr. Hix spoke at international conferences, led a Rotary international exchange group to Brazil, and attended cooking schools in Italy.  She grew up on the family farm and realizes what a blessed life she has had to be able to have a career field that allows service and learning in such important aspects as the health and development of families.  Her education would have certainly been shortened had it not been for a number of scholarships and fellowships, so she is creating this endowment.

The Joe M. Floyd Scholarship Endowment was established to honor the many contributions that Professor Joe M. Floyd has made to the Industrial Technology Department, to the College of Engineering, and to Tennessee Technological University. Joe Floyd was born in Ada, Oklahoma, on December 6, 1932. He received a B.S. degree in Industrial Arts Education from East Central State College in Ada and a master’s degree in Industrial Education from Oklahoma State University in Stillwater, Oklahoma. He also did doctoral work at Texas A and M University. From 1956 to 1964, Professor Floyd taught in the Ada City School System. He taught in the Bryan City Schools at Bryan Texas for the 1964-65 school year. Joe is married to Laverne Floyd, a very successful educator and entrepreneur.

In the Fall of 1966, Joe was recruited by Professor William Lewis, the chairperson of IT, to be an Assistant Professor of Industrial Technology at TTU. Professor Floyd always had good rapport with the students in the classroom and also the laboratory even though he placed demands on them for quality and workmanship. In addition, he was a very effective advisor and was interested in improving his teaching effectiveness. He was always interested in improving the technology program. He developed several new courses during his tenure at Tech and was always introducing new techniques in his classes.

He is a charter member of the National Association of Industrial Technology, Epsilon Pi Tau (EPT) and the Society of Manufacturing Engineers. Professor Floyd is very active in the local chapter of EPT along with the scheduled field trips and annual initiation banquets. He is active in civic and church activities. His active participation in the Rotary Club enabled him to share his time with others. He is a member of the Collegeside Church of Christ and served as one of the Deacons for a number of years.

He is a veteran of the Korean War, serving with the 45th Infantry Division. His military awards include: Combat Infantryman’s Badge; American Defense Medal; Army of Occupation Medal (Japan); United Nations Medal; Korean Service Medal with Battle Stars; Good Conduct Medal; and the Purple Heart. At the age of 19, Professor Floyd received a medical retirement from the U.S. Army for wounds received in combat.

The Floyds have two children, Michael Floyd and Cindy Hill (husband Nathan Hill) and granddaughter, Ashley Hill. Michael is a graduate of the University of Tennessee, Knoxville with a degree in Architecture. He is currently the Director of Cumberland School of Technology in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. Cindy completed her degree requirements at the Art Institute of Fort Lauderdale. She is the Financial Aid Director for four private schools in Tennessee and Louisiana. Professor Floyd will retire from the University on December 16, 1995.

The donor is a 1953 graduate of Tennessee Technological University, receiving a B.S. degree in Industrial Management from the College of Business Administration. Mr. Hawkins is an active board of trustees member of the Tennessee Technological University College of Business Administration Foundation and the Greater Chattanooga Area Business Alumni Association group of Tennessee Tech. Mr. Hawkins received the Outstanding Business Leadership Award in 1994-1995 from the Business Foundation. He served as the president of the Business Foundation during the 1998-1999 term.

Mr. Hawkins enjoyed a prestigious career in business, which included founding Hawkins and Associates. He was employed by the IBM Corporation from 1955 to 1988, retiring as director of Personnel Services. He retired from Provident Life and Accident Insurance Company in 1994 as the vice president of Human Resources.

Norma J. Hawkins, wife of Charlie Hawkins, shares as a co-sponsor of the scholarship endowment.

Norma passed away in 2012 and Charlie passed away in 2021. Thank you letters will be shared Lesley Tayes, the daughter of Charlie and Norma.  

Charles D. Malone and his brother, Donald E. Malone, have established this endowment as a memorial to their parents, Clyde and Bessie Ann Malone of Knoxville, Tennessee. As children of the Depression, Clyde and Bessie worked hard to make a living for their family. They highly valued education. Their sons have established this endowment in their honor as a gift that keeps on giving.

Charles Malone credits his career success to the sound engineering education he gained while studying at Tennessee Technological University and especially to the very caring and mentoring professors such as Dr. William Bonner, Chairperson of Civil and Environmental Engineering. Charles D. Malone desires that other young men and women be afforded similar opportunities through this honorary endowment.

Charles graduated from Karns High School in Knoxville, TN 1965. He entered Tennessee Technological University and graduated with a BS in Civil Engineering in 1970. He subsequently served three years in the United States Marine Corps and returned to Tennessee Tech and pursued studies toward an MS degree.

Charles began his career as an environmental engineer with Associated Water and Resources Engineers (AWARE) located in Nashville, Tennessee (1974-1978). He moved to Winston-Salem, NC to serve as the Wastewater Treatment Plant Manager for the City of Winston-Salem (1978-82_. Charles then founded and became President and CEO of Hydro Management Services, Inc. in Clemmons, NC (1982-1997). Charles is now President and CEO of C.D. Malone & Associates, a new firm started by Charles after the buyout of Hydro Management Services by US Water, Inc.

Charles Malone has served as environmental consultant to government and industry since 1975. He holds Professional Engineering certificates for Tennessee and North Caroline as well as licensure in North Carolina for Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator, Water Treatment Operator, Subsurface System Operator, Collection System Operator, and Land Application/Residuals Operator. He is also a member of the Water Pollution Control Federation, American Water Works Association, and the American Public Works Association.

In recognition of his outstanding accomplishments in water treatment and wastewater management, he has received the Phillip F. Morgan Medal, the Wilbur E. Long Operator of the Year Award, and the Winston-Salem Employee of the Year Award. Charles is currently serving his second four-year term as a member of the Water Pollution Control Operators Certification Commission for the state of North Carolina.

Charles desires and believes his parents would be proud that this endowment will enable many deserving young men and women to study engineering at Tennessee Technological University.

The Charles E. Hickman Engineering Scholarship Endowment was established at Tennessee Technological University by faculty, colleagues, and friends as a tribute to Charles Hickman’s service to the College of Engineering and the Center for Electric Power.

Dr. Charles E. Hickman, Dean of the College of Engineering and Professor Emeritus of Electrical Engineering, began his career with Tennessee Technological University in 1988 as the Director of the Center for Electric Power. He served as the Interim Dean of the College of Engineering in 1998-1999.

Janet Parsons Jordan was born on January 7, 1958, in Grosse Pointe, Michigan, to Rebecca and Dudley Parsons. The family moved to Livingston, Tennessee, shortly after her birth. At age seven, she and her siblings moved into Happy Haven Children’s Home. Though her early life was marked with hardship, she quickly learned how to improve her own life and the lives of those she encountered.
 
She attended Cookeville schools in her youth, and graduated from Livingston High School. As a cheerleader and member of the debate team, Janet never missed an opportunity to make her voice heard and her opinion known. She married Robert Huddleston shortly after high school and attended Tennessee Tech University, where she earned a degree in Chemistry. Shortly after graduation, she moved to Norman, Oklahoma, where she earned a nursing degree from the University of Oklahoma. She returned to Cookeville with her newborn son in 1985.
 
She remarried in 1986, and Jan’s brightest days were spent with her husband, Charles ‘Chuck’ Jordan. In him she found her match in biting wit, humor, and joy in seeing the world. After the birth of their son in 1988, the two spent time raising children and giving to their community.

Janet could never give enough to those around her. She served at First United Methodist Church as a Sunday school teacher, and was a board member at the YMCA, the Mustard Seed Ranch, Cookeville Cityscape, and Community Work Rehabilitation. She was a founding member of the Magnolia Garden Club and the Cookeville Collector’s Club. She rarely met a stranger, and when she did, they weren’t strangers for long.

The Charles F. Bryan Memorial Scholarship was established in memory of Charles F. Bryan.

American music owes a debt of gratitude to Charles Faulkner Bryan, a young composer and educator whose respect for the folksongs of his rural homeland - the hills and hollows of Tennessee - manifested into both classical and popular music in the mid-1900s.

Bryan, born in 1911 in McMinnville, began his career in Cookeville, at Tennessee Tech, where he taught and studied during the Depression. The university is commemorating the centennial of his birth on Oct. 7, with a full day and evening of public presentations and performances.

I meet many people who come to the Bryan Fine Arts Building out of curiosity or who had a relationship with music at the university, and I've gotten to know several who knew Bryan, says Arthur LaBar, chairperson of the Tennessee Tech Department of Music and Art. Without exception, these people speak with the highest respect, almost reverence, for Bryan. They recount how he, as their teacher, positively affected and inspired their lives. I'm very excited about the Bryan Centennial events.

Classically trained in voice, piano and composition, Bryan wrote in several symphonic forms, often incorporating the simple melodies and lyrics of Appalachian songs. But he also performed the folksongs solo; on tour, he played them as originally written, on piano or dulcimer, the only alteration being his clear and formal tenor.

Landmarks in his career include the 1942 Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra premier of the second movement of Bryan's only symphony, the 1945 Guggenheim Foundation composition fellowship based on his Ballard of the Harp Weaver, and the 1947 premier of his Bell Witch Cantata by Robert Shaw and the Julliard Chorus and Orchestra at Carnegie Hall in New York.

Bryan was certainly ambitious, says LaBar. How else can you explain how a young man from rural Tennessee rose to national prominence in classical music? But he never lost touch with the music of the people who raised him. And he was also ambitious for those around him, especially his students.

Bryan contributed to the folk music revival by collecting music at the source-recording songs in people's living rooms - and going on the road as a performer and lecturer. Stylistically, he foreshadowed the classically smooth Burl Ives and the emerging Pete Seeger more so than the less-studied Woody Guthrie.

But by the time he reached his 40s, Bryan wasn't well. No one knew for sure what was wrong. He suffered inexplicable illnesses, and he'd been born with a hear murmur, which is why he stayed state-side during World War II. Doctors ruled out allergies, brain cancer, endocarditis, and still he suffered. He slowed his pace, taking on a faculty position at a private school in Alabama, and while he never really got well, he refused to let his physical ailment interrupt his career.

On July 7, 1955, Charles Faulkner Bryan died. He was 44 years old.

The potential was there, after such a promising start, to go on to wider acclaim, but dying at such a young age resulted in Bryan's work being relegated to near-obscurity. His family donated his papers to the Tennessee Tech Archives, and the collection is extensive, including boxes and boxes of scores and notes, but most of the few existing recordings of his music are ravaged by time. Had it not been for the scholarly work of his biographer, Carolyn Livingston, the story of Charles Faulkner Bryan and his music would likely have been lost forever.

Mrs. Rozelle Huddleston Nash was a beloved resident in Putnam County for 87 years, with ties to the community that go back at least four generations. She was also a teacher in the area for 42 years, and started the first preschool and kindergarten programs in the area. As a proud alumna from Tennessee Tech, she obtained her B.S., Masters, and Ed. S. Her devotion to education inspired many of her students to pursue college degrees. The Rozelle Huddleston Nash Scholarship Endowment was created by Mrs. Nash’s husband, Mr. Earl R. Nash, in memory of his late wife and her love for teaching. His intent is to provide opportunities for Putnam County students interested in becoming teachers to afford an education at Tennessee Tech. Mr. Earl R. Nash was a beloved resident in Putnam County for 96 years with ties to the community that go back at least four generations. He was a teacher and a businessman in the community and was a proud alumnus of Tennessee Tech. The Earl R. Nash Scholarship Endowment was created in Mr. Nash's memory by his sons Charles and David. Their intent is to provide opportunities for Putnam County students interested in becoming nurses to afford an education at Tennessee Tech.

The Rector/Henry Family Scholarship is established by Terry and Judy Rector in honor of their parents Haskell and Ruby Rector and Clyde and Zana Henry. Their support, encouragement, and love through the years have meant so much and will never be forgotten. Friends and family of Terry Rector, Vice President of Business and Fiscal Affairs, established the Terry Rector Scholarship Endowment at his retirement in recognition of his long and distinguished career with Tennessee Technological University. A 1965 TTU accounting graduate, Terry worked his way through the Business Office from accountant to Vice President in a career that spanned almost 40 years. Under his leadership, the university’s fiscal management policies have resulted in an exceptionally sound and strong institution.

The Chemistry Academic Scholarship is funded by the Department of Chemistry from the sale of chemistry lab manuals. This fund was originally started by Dr. Vernon Allen, who served as the Director of Freshman Chemistry Lecture and Laboratory, using funds from the sale of laboratory manuals that he wrote with Professors Skinner, Singer, and Jewell. This practice has continued since the 1970's and has involved many current and past faculty members in the chemistry department.

Cheryl Lowrance grew up in Manchester, Tennessee, and received her Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering at Tennessee Tech at a time when not many females studied engineering, let alone civil engineering.  She was one of five females who graduated in 1984 with a civil engineering degree. Not knowing what to pursue upon graduation, she found herself going to work for the Virginia Department of Transportation beginning in Traffic Engineering and quickly finding herself in the world of Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS). Since that time, Cheryl has over 35 years of ITS and transportation engineering experience, specializing in strategic planning, design, operations, and maintenance of ITS and emerging technologies, providing deployment and implementation technical expertise. Her experience includes delivering leadership and technical expertise at the local, state and federal levels, currently supporting the United States Department of Transportation Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) and ITS Joint Program offices. Her current programs include ITS Evaluation, Professional Capacity Building, Connected and Automated Vehicle Research. She is a subject matter professional in traffic management systems design and operations and maintenance of ITS and transportation engineering technologies.

Cheryl has a passion for mentoring young female engineers and planners through multiple organizations including girl scouts, high schools, colleges and professional associations. She has participated in many career fairs and formal and informal mentoring programs, encouraging other females to pursue technical degrees including Civil and Transportation Engineering.

Upon retirement from the U.S. Navy in 1960, Commander and Mrs. F. R. Toline moved their family to Cookeville where the Commander taught engineering until his retirement from the University in 1982. Commander Toline wanted his children to grow up in a town like Cookeville and to attend this outstanding university. Education was imperative to him. His son Robert, for whom this scholarship is named, received a Bachelor of Science Degree in Industrial Technology from Tennessee Tech in 1976. Robert was also a part of the first graduating MBA class at Tennessee Tech in August, 1977. Robert worked with Procter & Gamble for 11 years and was plant Manager at Gold Medal in Baxter. He was also Operations Manager for the Sparta Spoke Factory before beginning his own business as House Doctors Handyman Service (now Highland Home Improvement) in 1999. He truly loved people, never met a stranger, and sincerely wanted to make a positive difference in people's lives. He was a quiet mentor to many. Robert was a loving, strict daddy to his sons, spending many happy years at football and baseball fields and wrestling rings around Tennessee. He supported and encouraged his boys in everything they ever did. He especially loved being a Papaw to his granddaughter, Alyssa. Robert enjoyed making 18th century furniture, antiquing, gardening and cooking. He was proud of his family history among the earliest settlers of Tennessee and enjoyed genealogy. Robert passed away October 14, 2015, and his wife of 38 years, Pamela, would like to ensure his legacy at Tennessee Tech.

Chimezirim Ibe-Ekeocha is from Nigeria and came to the United States to pursue a B.S in mechanical engineering from the University. During her time at the University, her family was going through financial issues and was not certain that she could complete her degree. She was fortunate to get scholarships that made the tuition more affordable for her family. Eventually, during her last semester, scholarships covered the rest of her tuition. Chimezirim is very grateful to the University for supporting her during the difficult financial times. She wants to support students who are having financial difficulties.

Chris (’79 ME) and Keron (’80 IE) Privon feel that they received an excellent education and had an overall positive experience while attending school in Cookeville, Tennessee. They are interested in supporting the initiatives of the College of Engineering (specifically the industrial engineering and mechanical engineering departments), assisting needy and goal oriented students in pursuing engineering careers, and also as an example to others, they have decided to establish an endowment to help support the academic excellence at Tennessee Technological University.

The family of Bill and Wanda Seiler are proud to establish this endowment in memory of their parents and grandparents. Bill and Wanda believed in higher education, and made sure their children and grandchildren would financially be able to obtain a college degree.

After Bill passed away in 2009, Wanda spent the last 5 years of her life at Heritage Pointe Senior Living Community in Cookeville, TN. The employees at Heritage Pointe went above and beyond to care for her during her time there, and it is because of this that the family has chosen to establish a scholarship for nursing majors and employees of Heritage Pointe. It is their hope that after receiving so much care, love, and support from Heritage Pointe, they can give back in some small way.

Tom Moore was born in 1930, was a 1948 graduate of Gordonsville High School and later attended TTU. He was appointed to the Tennessee Highway Patrol in 1952, rose through the ranks and was appointed to the TBI in 1965. After his retirement in 1985, he was selected as Chief of the Cookeville Police Department where he served until 1989. He was also employed by the U.S. Marshall’s Office. Mr. Moore served in the Tennessee Army National Guard, was a 50-plus member of the Carthage Masonic Lodge, and was a charter member of Cookeville’s Fraternal Order of Police. Mrs. Laura Moore was born in the Difficult Community of Smith County in 1931. She was one of 6 children and graduated from Smith County High School in 1949. She was employed by the Selective Service until its closure and retired as Area Coordinator of the U.S.D.A. Soil Conservation Service. She was a charter member of the Ladies Auxiliary Fraternal Order of Police. The Moore’s were married on November 25, 1950.

Dr. Scott and Mrs. Christine Northrup chose to establish this endowment to provide funds for awarding an annual Outstanding Graduate Teaching Assistant Award and an Outstanding Undergraduate Teaching Assistant Award. They believe that students play a vital role in the educational mission of the Department of Chemistry by their conscientious efforts as teaching assistants in the laboratories, and in the commitment and dedication they show to the students. They are very valuable to the Chemistry Department. As such, the Northrups chose to reward the efforts of the very best of the Chemistry TA staff.

This scholarship was created by Arthur J. Langlois in memory of his beloved wife, Marion B. Hood Langlois. Marion attended the University of Wisconsin and Tennessee Technological University and she and Art were long time residents of Cookeville, Tennessee. Marion had a life-long interest in history and she and Art funded a history scholarship while residing in Cookeville. This endowment will continue that scholarship to help deserving students pursue a degree in history.

Marion was born February 3, 1920 in Racine, Wisconsin. She was the daughter of the late James Coy and Georgia Smith Hood. Her family includes her husband Arthur J. Langlois; two sons, Geoffrey J. Langlois and wife Valerie, and Christopher J. Langlois and wife Jean; two daughters, Elizabeth A. Dobles and husband Thomas, and Harriet H. Langlois and husband Louis King; two brothers, William E. Hood and Edward W. Hood; one sister, Helen Tiedemann; and nine grandchildren.

When Arthur J. Langlois passed away in 2009, his name was added to the scholarship endowment.

Brothers Chris and David Jensen established the Rebecca K. Jensen Scholarship in English and the Kenneth W. Jensen Scholarship in Engineering in memory of their parents. Their father put himself through school and, after two years at David Lipscomb College in Nashville, transferred to Tennessee Tech.

This scholarship endowment has been established in honor of Dr. Lebron Bell for his nearly 50 years of service to Tennessee Tech, where he has promoted positive student engagement and advanced the study of exercise science. Dr. Bell received his undergraduate degree from Tennessee Wesleyan University in 1963, and was inducted into their Hall of Fame for basketball in 1983. He received his doctorate degree from the University of Tennessee in Knoxville in 1972 and then came to Tech shortly after to teach in the Department of Health and Physical Education, now the Department of Exercise Science, Physical Education and Wellness. In 1985, Dr. Bell received the Outstanding Faculty Award in Professional Service from the University. In 2017 an award recognizing outstanding alumni for lifetime achievement was established in the Department in his honor. He has touched the lives of thousands of students, and many of those students credit their successes to Dr. Bell.

Frances Johnson Palk graduated from Tennessee Tech University in 1969 with a degree in Business Education. Many of Frances' family members are graduates of Tennessee Tech including her husband, Roy M. Palk, brother, Charles W. Johnson, and sisters, Louise Johnson Charles and Betty Johnson Troop. Frances enjoyed her career as a very respected court reporter throughout the state of Tennessee while rearing two children, Russell Palk and Beth Palk Hooper. Frances was the niece of Dean Louis Johnson, Jr. and Virginia Johnson.

The Frances Johnson Palk Endowed Scholarship was established in her memory by her family and parents, Willard and Agnes Johnson, of Baxter.

This scholarship was established in 1966 to support scholarship awards, student travel grants, equipment purchases and faculty/staff development in the department.

Tennessee Technological University maintains a fund known as The Clara Cox Epperson Fund, portions of which result from the sales of Scraps of Verse and Prose from Heartsease, edited and copyrighted by Mrs. Lottie Farr in 1973. Mrs. Epperson lived in Cookeville, was named Tennessee's poet laureate, and was the mother of Mrs. W. A. (Elise) Howard.

Judge Clarence E. Shattuck, Jr. (B.S. Accounting, 1957) grew up in a rural area of Hamilton County, Tennessee, with very few, if any, “modern conveniences.” He attended the public schools and graduated from Soddy-Daisy High School in 1953, where he was a student leader, honor student, and recognized athlete.

Influenced by a high school teacher, he enrolled at Tech in the fall of 1953, where for four years he worked various student jobs. He was active in many student activities, including Associated Student Body president, and graduated with honors. Clarence then attended University of Tennessee College of Law and graduated in 1960. Thereafter, he began a successful practice of law in Chattanooga. In 1982, he was appointed General Sessions Court Judge and served until his retirement in 2019. During his career he received many honors for his service to the community.

Clarence is a first-generation college graduate and is very proud that he now has a son, grandson, granddaughter-in-law, and brother who have received degrees from Tech. He credits Tech with providing him a solid foundation, educationally and socially, for a long and rewarding career. It is his desire to help provide deserving students an opportunity to continue their Tech experience by endowing one or more scholarships.

This is a scholarship in the memory of Clarence Lancaster, Sr. According to the Herald Citizen, “Kiwanis Club of Putnam County installed their 2011-2012 members, they also took time to honor member Clarence Lancaster who was not only a charter member of the club, which got its start 53 years ago, he has also had perfect attendance to all the meetings.” ”He’s an example of a member who’s found time to balance family, work, and Kiwanis as a community service,” said Charlie Mackie, 2010-2011 president.

In the early 1970s, a group of young men within the Jaycees organization in Cookeville, Tennessee took on the tremendous task of securing a federal grant to build a 100 unit apartment complex to assist low and middle income families living in Cookeville. The group formed a non-profit corporation as a separate entity on August 25, 1972, called Willow Park Apartments, Inc., to construct and manage the complex. In order to assure continued maintenance of the project for the long term, the corporation (Willow Park Apartments, Inc.) sold the apartment complex during the mid 1980's and a new corporation, Willow Park Partners, Inc., was formed to manage the remaining interest in the Project. Proceeds from the sale were held in the trust and managed by the Cookeville Jaycees Academic Trust Foundation for the purpose of assisting young people attending Tennessee Technological University through scholarships. It is the desire of the Cookeville Jaycees Academic Trust Foundation to continue this commitment in helping Putnam County high school graduates through this gift. The Cookeville Jaycees Academic Trust Foundation consists of Dr. Max Atnip, Mr. Larry B. Garrett, Mr. Jim Hicks, Mr. Scott Lytal, Mr. Clarence Smith, and Mr. Donnie Westbrooks (who passed away in 2017).

In 1994, the Coca-Cola Foundation challenged Tennessee Tech to raise money for scholarships for first generation college students. For a set period of time, the Foundation pledged to match every two dollars raised through university efforts with one dollar of Foundation money. At the completion of the pledge period, friends, alumni, faculty, and staff of Tennessee Tech had contributed $300,000. With the Coca-Cola Foundation match, the Coca-Cola First Generation Scholarship was established.

Once a year, the College of Arts and Sciences chooses to honor a junior or senior who exemplifies excellence in the liberal arts. The Arts and Sciences Award in Excellence recipient is chosen by a group consisting of one representative from each department or inter-departmental major program in the College. The Arts and Sciences Honors Scholarship was established in 2000 by Dr. Connie Hood to support hardworking and intellectually curious students with double majors who have exhausted other means of scholarship support but are making productive use of their academic opportunities.

The Harry R. Enlow, MD, Memorial Endowed Scholarship was established in memory of Harry R. Enlow, MD, by his wife, Florence Lois Enlow, in 1987. The contribution was made in honor of Dr. and Mrs. John W. Harris. Dr. Harris is a professor of Biology at Tennessee Technological University and Mrs. (Caroline) Harris is the granddaughter of Dr. and Mrs. Enlow. Mrs. Enlow requested before her death that the scholarship provide financial assistance to young people who come from circumstances in which there are no college graduates in the immediate family.

This scholarship helps the college attract quality students.

This endowed scholarship was established by gifts received during the College of Business Building a Foundation for the Future campaign.

The Tennessee Valley Authority presented the College of Business Administration Foundation with scholarship funds to establish the COBAF Diversity Scholarship and to help diversity the student population within the College of Business Administration at Tennessee Technological University. The COBAF MBA Scholarship was established to help the MBA Program attract and recruit quality candidates to the program.

The College of Engineering Endowment has been established at Tennessee Technological University to provide the Dean of the College of Engineering with a supplementary funding resource. The endowment was created with unrestricted private gifts to the College of Engineering. The Engineering Development Foundation Board outlined a stewardship process for this endowment whereby use of funds from the endowment must be agreed upon by the Dean of the College of Engineering and the Associate/Assistant Deans. This committee is accountable to the Engineering Development Foundation Board for all expenditures.

Col. James (Jim) R. Larkins established the Larkins Endowment to support the educational pursuits of graduates from his home county of Dickson, TN. He appreciates the important role of education and educators in his personal success. He wishes to use this scholarship to encourage Dickson County graduates to continue their education and realize their potential. Col. Larkins retired as an Air Force colonel after a distinguished career. He later worked for Merrill Lynch. After receiving a law degree from the University of Texas, he worked as an attorney for the Texas Water Commission.

Concrete Structures Scholarship

Concrete Structures was founded in 1962 and has since been working in highway construction in the Middle Tennessee area. Specializing in bridge construction, they made a name for themselves working with the Tennessee Department of Transportation and local county and city governments as well as private entities for bridge projects. Located about 45 minutes west of Nashville, Concrete Structures provides private and public road construction services to all of Middle Tennessee and portions of East and West Tennessee. The current staff created this scholarship to support students from Dickson and Hickman counties.

Concrete Structures Engineering Scholarship

Concrete Structures was founded in 1962 and has since been working in highway construction in the Middle Tennessee area. Specializing in bridge construction, they made a name for themselves working with the Tennessee Department of Transportation and local county and city governments as well as private entities for bridge projects. Located about 45 minutes west of Nashville, Concrete Structures provides private and public road construction services to all of Middle Tennessee and portions of East and West Tennessee. The current staff created this scholarship to support future engineers.

Steve Davis, 64, a resident of Decatur, Tennessee, passed away on January 23, 2016. He was a native of Bradley County and resided the last 28 years in Meigs County. He attended New Hope Primitive Baptist Church. He was an avid fisherman, hunter, gardener, and all around outdoorsman. He enjoyed spending time with family and friends. Steve's wife of 28 years, Connie Flatt Davis, and his son, Seth Davis and daughter, Rebecca Davis wanted to memorialize Steve by offering a scholarship for a student at Tennessee Tech; Connie, Seth and Rebecca's alma mater.

The motto of Lions International is We Serve. In 1925, Helen Keller challenged Lions to become knights of the blind in the crusade against darkness. Since then service to the blind and visually impaired has become one of the association's most significant activities. The Cookeville Evening Lions Club has been exemplary in its sight services. It has helped to save children's sight through an outstanding photoscreening program, collected used glasses to distribute to underdeveloped countries, and raised more than $100,000 to support Kidsight, establishing the Tennessee Lions Eye Center at Vanderbilt Children's Hospital. The Cookeville Evening Lions Club is continuing its tradition of service by establishing a Pre-Medicine/Pre-Optometry scholarship at Tennessee Tech. The establishment of this scholarship is consistent with and promotes the action of Lions International which has designated the Club year 2001-2002 as the Year of Youth.

Founded August 4, 2012, I.M.P.A.C.T. stands for Innovative Men Progressing the African-American Community Together. The mission of the organization is to promote Christian love, service, and social interest amongst Black Men and enhance these endeavors in our region and build bridges and alliances with all like-minded people. The organization seeks to provide servant leadership through the use of diverse talents of membership to create environments that motivate and empower people of color to become sufficient partakers/owners in the educational, economic, and social fabric of the communities in which they live and serve. In honor of the late Isaac and Amanda Bohanon, Cookeville I.M.P.A.C.T., Inc. is establishing this scholarship to be awarded to the top African American high school graduates in Putnam County, in an effort to keep our best and brightest at home so they can contribute back to this community.

The General Federation of Woman’s Clubs (GFWC) was founded in 1890 and is the world's largest and oldest nonpartisan, nondenominational women's volunteer service organization. The Cookeville Junior Woman's Club was founded in 1970. The organization's purpose is to support the community and to promote common interests in education, civics, fine arts, and other worthwhile causes. It is the club's desire that this scholarship, established by the Cookeville Junior Woman's Club, will provide the organization a way to make a lasting impact on education for women in the Cookeville community.

The Cookeville Police Athletic League (CPAL) established this scholarship to encourage disadvantaged youth to seek a college education and to financially assist such students at Tennessee Tech. It was named in memory of Captain Ralph Walker for his outstanding dedication and service to the Cookeville Police Department.

As an independent affiliate of Cookeville Regional Medical Center (CRMC), the Cookeville Regional Charitable Foundation exists to enhance the quality and availability of healthcare in our region by: meeting critical charitable needs of patients; offering free health-education and medical services throughout our Upper Cumberland community; operating compassionate programs that enhance the patient experience; and promoting community investment in our regional, non-profit, community-owned hospital, Cookeville Regional Medical Center. Jeans and Bling is a collaborative effort between the TTU Whitson Hester School of Nursing and the Cookeville Regional Charitable Foundation. Proceeds benefit nursing scholarships for students enrolled at TTU's Whitson Hester School of Nursing and local hospice patients in need of assistance. The intent of this scholarship is to encourage nursing students to engage in training, education, and research surrounding nursing care, and to focus on quality of life for seriously and terminally ill patients.

The CRMC Auxiliary has awarded an annual nursing scholarship since 1996. The scholarship was awarded through the cooperative efforts of the CRMC Auxiliary and the TTU School of Nursing. In July 2003, the CRMC Auxiliary approved the establishment of an endowed scholarship with the TTU School of Nursing in lieu of the original annual scholarship.

Dissolved in February 2017, the Cookeville-Putnam County Area Crime Stoppers Program of Tennessee began in 1982 from the efforts of the Cookeville City Commission and the Cookeville Police Department. The Organization operated independently. The concept developed into a combination of efforts by local media, businesses, civic and social clubs, law enforcement agencies, and the public. Donations of airtime, newspaper space, and reward monies established the Organization as an effective program to fight crime in Putnam County, Tennessee.
 
The Organization was comprised of diverse, active, and dedicated community representatives, and provided a method for local law enforcement to anonymously receive information on crimes. These efforts increased tips, which in turn increased arrests in the community.

The Cracker Barrel Old Country Store Foundation seeks to strengthen and preserve our community by supporting programs in areas of education, human services, cultural affairs, and the environment. Without appropriate educational opportunities and challenges, the Foundation believes that students will not be empowered with skills to become contributing citizens within our communities.

Since 1993, it has been the tradition for each class celebrating its 50th anniversary since graduation to present a class gift to the university during the annual Golden Grad Reunion ceremonies. In honor of its 50th anniversary during the 2017 Homecoming festivities, the Class of 1967 has elected to support the TTU Alumni Legacy Scholarship with its class gift, leaving a lasting legacy for generations to come. Jerry Cantrell, 1967 alumnus and Reunion Committee member, led the initiative with a generous $1,000 gift and penned a letter his classmates requesting their participation in the class gift. The Alumni Association Executive Board will be charged to select at least one eligible student from a pool of applicants. To be considered, a student must be the deserving child, grandchild, or step-child of a Tech graduate with a 23 or higher ACT score and a G.P.A. of 3.0 or greater.

The Cumberland Plateau Chapter 200 of the Society of Manufacturing Engineers was chartered in 1967 for the express purpose of promoting manufacturing engineering in the Upper Cumberland area. This is the only professional organization that is devoted to promoting manufacturing engineering practice in this area. The Chapter has helped manufacturing engineers to network among their peers and learn the state of the art manufacturing techniques through the monthly meetings and plant tours. The chapter has been always interested in getting young people interested in pursuing a career in manufacturing engineering.

Curtiss Brock is a Professor of Art and oversees the Glass Studio at the University. He has a passion for supporting students who have a deep desire to work with glass. It is his dream to grow this endowment and leave a lasting impact on the University and future glass students.

This scholarship is established to honor Tawnya Robinson Moss. Tawnya served as administrative assistant to several Directors of the School of Agriculture at Tennessee Technological University. Her great love for her students was one of her many endearing qualities, many of which thought of her as a second Mom.

Damon MacNaught is an Assistant Professor of Glass at the Appalachian Center for Craft. The Craft Center glass program has impacted numerous students coming to Tennessee Tech University. It is his hope that this annual scholarship will continue to inspire future students in glass and help make the opportunity happen for them.

Mr. and Mrs. Henry Ka-Toi Chow were born in China in the 1920’s. They witnessed the infancy of a republic form of government in China and lived through World War II and a civil war in China. They survived these wars and armed conflicts by fleeing to various villages and towns in China. In 1949, they left mainland China and settled down in Hong Kong, a British colony at the time, along with Mr. Chow’s parents.

Mr. Chow completed high school in Hong Kong in 1940 and started college but didn’t finish due to the political instabilities in China. He was an exceptional student, an avid reader, and a self-taught person. Although he had rudimentary English lessons in High School, on his own he learned to speak and write fluent English - a rare ability in 1950’s Hong Kong. Following the footsteps of his father, he started his career in a bank. Later he became an English high school teacher and then founded a private high school. After the high school closed, he returned to the field of finance and worked for a Hong Kong office of a global Swedish bearing company. He finished his career as the Finance Manager of a British Holding company where he led their finance and accounting group.

Mrs. Chow was a stay-at-home mom who devoted herself to caring for a family of ten, including grandparents and six children. Her success at home was a testament to her perseverance, patience, wisdom, love, kindness, efficiency, budgeting skills, planning, and faultless execution. She was a loving and caring mom who formed close bonds with her six children.

The Chows emphasized the importance of education and accomplished one of their life goals, ensuring that all six children received a college education. Each of the six siblings earned a bachelor’s degree and some with advanced degrees. They instilled in their children exceptional work ethics, a mindset unafraid of failures and willing to learn from each mistake, humility, respect for authority, integrity, trustworthiness, fairness, and honesty. One of the most amazing gifts they gave their children was their abandonment of the traditional Chinese ancestor worship and becoming Christians.

Establishing the Mr. and Mrs. Henry Ka-Toi Chow Scholarship is to create a lasting tribute to The Chows whose passion for higher education has positively impacted his six children and future generations of the Chow family. We hope this scholarship will inspire future students in the Department of Mechanical Engineering at the University to become leaders with integrity and a passion for innovation.

Col. Danny C. Cox is a graduate of Tennessee Technological University who was commissioned in the Army through the University’s Army ROTC program in 1967. A good, friend, Bill Steed, graduated and was commissioned during the same ceremony. Bill was killed in Vietnam in 1969. Col. Cox married Annette Harris (1967) whom he met at Tech, benefited from a fulfilling career in the Army, raised two terrific daughters, Jennifer and Julie, and enjoys four scrappy grandsons. Bill Steed, and many other young soldiers, never had the same opportunities.

Wishing to permanently memorialize and commemorate the sacrifice of Bill Steed and other Tech graduates who were commissioned through the Army ROTC program and lost their lives while fighting for our country, Col. Cox formed a committee to search for ways to honor them. He chose Tech graduates who themselves were commissioned through the ROTC program.

Over time the committee learned of other Tech ROTC graduates who also were killed in Vietnam: J. Donald Stallings (class of 1954), Melvin (Tommy) Huffine (1960) and Carl Gilbert (1968). The committee decided the best means of recognition would be an annual scholarship to be awarded to an advanced course ROTC cadet in memory of all Tennessee Tech ROTC graduates who died in war. Past graduates of the program were informed, response was massive and the endowment was quickly funded.

Tech’s ROTC graduates continue to go to war, and this scholarship is intended to help cadets earn their commission.

Danny and Linda attended the University studying in pre-professional programs, Danny in pre-med and Linda in pre-pharmacy. They were resident assistants and therefore got free rooms so that they could afford to live on campus. They made it through with limited funds along with work scholarships, which were integral to their success on campus. They met and became engaged while at the University and proceeded to the University of Tennessee-Memphis together for their respective professional programs. The University has sentimental meaning and importance for both, which is what drew them to establishing this scholarship fund. They were able to earn their educations with the support of family, scholarships, and working; consequently, they know the challenges students face from personal experience and they hope to support future generations of students. Danny and Linda are glad to be able to help current and future students achieve their goals through this scholarship.

Danny R. Stoppenhagen was born and raised in west Tennessee. His aptitude for math and science, as well as an affinity for hands-on projects growing up, led him to pursue engineering as a profession. Two of his cousins are mechanical engineering grads from the University, his older brother graduated from the University in the civil engineering program, and Danny then followed suit. Danny studied civil engineering and ran track and cross country while a student. He graduated with his bachelor’s degree in 1978 and with his master’s degree in 1979.

After graduating from the University, he began his career with Harland Bartholomew & Associates [“HB&A”] in Memphis. After a year at HB&A working in the consulting engineering environment, he took a job at Chris-Hill Construction Company, performing various engineering and project management functions for many years until becoming a partner/owner in 1999. The company has played a major part in the development and construction of many roads, bridges, sewer and water plants, and other infrastructure in the Memphis and Midsouth area.

Danny is member of the Civil and Environmental Engineering Advisory Board at the University, and enjoys visits to the campus and interacting with the students and staff. This gift will be used to support the needs of the Civil and Environmental Engineering Department.

During the Era following World War II and the Korean War, Tennessee Technological University, then Tennessee Polytechnic Institute, was flooded with veterans home from the military service and eager for an education. In an effort to help provide much needed housing, Robert Roe Bockman, who lived on North Dixie Avenue, responded by renting out five bedrooms in his house to young single men. Between the years of 1946 and 1962, he and his wife, Ada, played surrogate parents to nearly a hundred young men. The men went through a rigorous screening process before they were approved to move into the Bockman house. While living there, the men made lifelong friends, attended classes at TPI, and helped Mr. Bockman with a variety of chores around the house. This continued until Mr. Bockman’s death in 1962. Throughout the years that followed, many of the men kept in touch by phone and mail.

In 1998, a group of the first “Bockman Boys” reunited on Tech’s campus to retell their stories and share memories of their younger days. In conjunction with their final reunion in the Fall of 2004, the “Bockman Boys” wanted to leave a lasting remembrance of a great man, who had been a father to some, a teacher to others, and a friend to all. The Roe Bockman Housing Scholarship Endowment has been created in memory of Mr. Bockman and the influence he had on the educations, careers, and lives of so many young men. The endowment’s key initiators were Dr. and Mrs. Wallace Frierson, Dr. and Mrs. Douglas Norman, Mr. Ernest Robertson, and Mrs. Lucille Bockman Robertson, daughter of Mr. Roe Bockman.

Mr. Ernest Robertson passed away in April 2022 at the age of 97. His son Dave now receives updates about the scholarship. 

W. David Hall (Civil Engineering, 1972) and his wife Rebecca Gantz Hall (Ag Natural Resources, 1973) have established this endowment as a memorial to David's aunt and uncle, Frances and Lionel Larsen. Not having children of their own, the Larsens took great pride and interest in the accomplishments of their nieces and nephews. They highly valued education and provided strong encouragement to David during his time at Tennessee Tech and during his subsequent engineering career.

David and Becky believe that Aunt Frances and Uncle Lionel would be pleased that this endowment will assist deserving young men and women in pursuing an undergraduate degree in Civil Engineering at Tennessee Technological University for many years to come.

David and Bonita Barger have been a working professional couple for 40 years – David as a physician, and Bonita as a professor. As a now retired emergency department physician, David depended on nursing personnel to inform him of a patient’s condition, perform orders, and administer medications. The duties for providing health care are all interconnected and require the highest level of cooperation and communication between doctor and nurse.

As a retired professor from the Tennessee Tech College of Business, Bonita frequently took students abroad to facilitate their learning about other cultures, lifestyles and values. Developing relationships with people of various backgrounds enhances empathy, global understanding and cooperation. David and Bonita value diversity, quality health care and the presence of Tennessee Tech in our community. By establishing this scholarship, they hope to assist in the training of future generations to become the most essential healthcare workers.

Tennessee Technological University offers very high quality, practical, and affordable education to anyone willing to work hard for it. This education can take you as far as you want to go and has taken Art and Tonya Blanchford around the world and to the top of the business world as they remained grounded in family and friendships as well. They strongly believe that society is a weak-link organism, and only being as good as its weakest link. Therefore, they are committed to helping those who might not have another opportunity. Tech meets that, helping those who might not get access to other universities, but still with very high aims and ambitions.

Art graduated from Monterey High School, which didn’t have Physics or Calculus, so he was not accepted at other universities. Or if he was, those universities were out of his reach financially. He received a great mechanical engineering degree at Tech that allowed him to fly to the top of the automotive industry. He has stayed connected to Tech the whole time, donating at least a little bit every year since he graduated, volunteering for Baja SAE and the Sigma Chi Fraternity, and receiving the Outstanding Young Alumnus Award in 2006. He has also been very blessed in his family, mostly by marrying his wonderful wife, Tonya Shockey, almost 30 years ago, and having the gracious support of her parents who also attended and met at Tech.

Tonya attended three high schools due to her father relocating frequently in the Army.  She graduated from Dugway High School in Utah and went to Utah State for a year.  Her family relocated to the Eastern United States, so she transferred to Tech given her family was from Tennessee.  

Tech had everything she wanted although she was nervous about going to a school where she knew no one.  Being a shy introvert, Tonya was always nervous about making new friends. She was advised to go through Sorority Rush to meet people, and she developed friendships from that experience. Years later, some of those friends were in her wedding, and she’s still in contact with many of them today.   

She’s so grateful for the friendliness of the students and staff which helped her to transition from a school near her family to one far away.  She spent three and a half years at Tech, and she graduated with a bachelor’s degree in finance.

It is Art and Tonya’s pleasure to start this endowment, together with her parents, to give back to the University that has given them so much as well as to make access to this good life available to others through the doorway of a Tech education. With their son, Sawyer, pursuing his nursing degree at Tech, Art and Tonya have three generations positively affected by Tech and they want to make that available to others.

David and Donna Shockey are honored to be able to give a little back to Tech through the Shockey-Blanchford Returning Student Scholarship Endowment. Tech gave David the opportunity to overcome reading and learning disabilities, earn a bachelor’s and master’s degrees in civil engineering, and be a successful officer in the U.S. Army for 22 years. David also owned a consulting and construction company for about eight years, practiced as a professional engineer and project manager for about 18 years, and later in life become a beekeeper and mentor for veterans and others to become beekeepers for more than 12 years.

David was born in the mid-1940s, in Winchester, VA, with a reading and learning disability —something that was viewed as just being a problem kid — and he was not evaluated properly. Fortunately, his mother spent endless hours helping him learn to read and memorize his multiplication tables. During his primary and senior high schooling, he struggled as evidenced by his grades. In fact, he barely graduated from Frederick High School in Frederick, Maryland, in 1963. Only by the grace of God did he earn a “B” on his final senior math exam that elevated his overall GPA enough to graduate.

His mother insisted that he attend college. Due to his poor grades, he was not accepted at any of the colleges or universities where he applied. So, he attended a one-year college preparation program at Hagerstown Junior College in Hagerstown, Maryland. In the summer of 1964, he happened to run into an old high school friend, Ora Main. They started talking as usual about where they had been and what they had been doing since high school. When David told Ora of his dilemma about not getting accepted into a college, Ora immediately told David to apply to Tennessee Polytechnical Institute. “They will accept anybody, they did me.”

Ora’s high school grades were not much better than David’s. David went home and told his mother and father about Tech. David’s father promptly told him that he would buy David a Greyhound bus ticket if he wanted to go. A few weeks later in August, David was off to Tennessee Polytechnical Institute by Greyhound bus. It took a couple of days at that time because there were no interstate highways and the bus stopped at about every small town along the way.

When David arrived at the bus station, near the square in Cookeville, there was a taxicab sitting there. As soon as he got off the bus, the taxicab driver came over to David and a couple of other fellows and asked if they were going to Tech. They all indicated that they were. The taxicab driver gave them a free ride to Tech and dropped them off in front of Memorial Gym where they were met by a couple of upper classmen who became their guides for the next couple of days.

They were assigned a dorm room in Daniel Hall, taken to dinner in the old Student Union (now Oakley Hall) just across the quad and told to report to Memorial Gym the next morning. They were given first class treatment and assisted through every step of the application process and other activities associated with Freshman Orientation. David was accepted on probation and was assisted with his class schedule as he prepared for his return in September. When it was all over, they were given a free taxi ride back to the bus station and David returned home. This hospitality and friendly atmosphere were consistent throughout David’s five years at Tech.

In 1964, ROTC was mandatory for all male freshmen and sophomores, as was attendance for all students to the weekly Student Assembly in Memorial Gym. Everyone quickly started getting acquainted and friendships started developing. Pep Rallies were regularly held in Memorial Gym, and David believes that 90% of the students attended them. David recalls that the Pep Rallies were “a heck of a lot of fun for everyone.”

Near the end of the of his freshman year, he received a completely unexpected visit from the lead Tech cheerleader who stopped by his dorm room one evening. David only knew of the lead cheerleader from the Pep Rallies. The cheerleader asked if David would consider trying out for the Tech cheerleading squad. David thought; “WOW, unbelievable that a Yankee from Maryland would be asked to try out for the cheerleading squad.” He did and was on the cheerleading squad for the next three years.

Since David was on probation and had a reading and learning disability – which was not readily recognized, diagnosed, or accommodated in the 1960’s – David had to get serious about studying. Fortunately, his two roommates in Daniel Hall also had a need to study as well. All the teachers and professors at Tech were focused on everyone learning and attaining a passing grade in their courses. Freshman English Grammer101 was a mandatory prerequisite for moving forward. Again, David was extremely fortunate to have a professor who recognized that there were three young fellows in her class who were struggling: a basketball player, a farm boy, and David.

One day, she asked the three of them to stay after class and meet with her. She offered to tutor them a couple of afternoons each week until the final exam. She was very clear that she did not expect them to be able to pass the final exam unless she helped them. It was the Blue Book Essay Exam. They agreed, and they all passed the final exam. David still has his original copy of the “Harbrace College Handbook” 5th Edition used in that course.

This willingness to help students along the way was typical of most every professor that David had throughout his five years at Tech. Also, many professors offered work study opportunities as did two of his civil engineering professors both during the academic year as well as during a couple of summers.

Tech is where David met Donna, and they were married his junior year. Donna graduated from Monterey High School and attended Tech for a couple of years. She worked for Elizabeth Murphy, the Dean of Women at the time, and earned $1.25 per hour. Later she worked in the Department of Electrical Engineering. They will celebrate 56 years of marriage in December 2023 and have enjoyed traveling around the United States and the world.

David fully understands the need for financial assistance because he would not have been able to attend Tech for five years without financial support through a local bank in his home town (the president of the bank insisted that David produce his grades every quarter in order to get a loan), the extra monthly pay received by being in the Advanced ROTC program, and part time work provided by two of his professors in the Department of Civil Engineering. Earning an engineering degree in the 1960’s took five years, especially if one was participating in the Advanced ROTC program.

Donna and David desire to help as many students as possible though this scholarship endowment to have similar opportunities to what they had and ultimately to be successful in life.

Recognizing the difficulty for today's students to receive an affordable higher education, David and Judy Mainord established this scholarship to help deserving students fulfill their dreams of obtaining a degree to better their circumstances. After his service in the Army, David Mainord graduated from Tennessee Technological University with a bachelor's degree in science from the School of Agriculture in 1976. Judy Mainord holds a bachelor's degree from the University of Alabama's Capstone College of Nursing. Together they own and operate Mainord & Associates Appraisal Services. Both David and Judy Mainord have a strong desire to see hard-working students achieve their goals in life of building families, careers and wealth.

This scholarship was established as a tribute to David and Vera Soloff in recognition of their contributions to the success of The Soloff Companies. This scholarship is in further recognition of the College of Engineering, Tennessee Technological University, and its contributions to the construction industry by providing knowledgeable and competent engineers.

David and Vera Soloff worked 100-hour weeks and made other personal sacrifices to insure that their sons acquired a college education. The Soloffs taught their children that a good education and hard work would open doors to many opportunities.

The scholarship is being funded by The Soloff Companies. David and Vera inspired in Mickey, their son, a very strong work ethic and a desire to “Learn and Build.” Mickey, a 1953 Civil Engineering Tech graduate, is the Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of the Board of Soloff Construction Company, Inc., Soloff Properties, Inc., Crown Properties, Inc., Foam-Crete, Inc., L & M Construction Company, Inc., and Lightweight Concrete Company, Inc. In addition to serving as Chief Executive Officer of all the above companies, Mickey serves many local and national organizations in an advisory position. Among these, he serves as Director of Sovran Bank of Chattanooga and a member of Tennessee Tech’s Board of Engineering Advisors, a member of the Associated General Contractors Association of America, Chattanooga Chamber of Commerce, International Council of Shopping Centers, and the Construction Specification Institute of America.

The Mechanical Engineering Scholarship Endowment has been established by the Department of Mechanical Engineering at Tennessee Technological University from funds in the departmental restricted account which were donated to the department from various sources for the improvement of the department. The faculty of the department felt that the best way to use the funds was to endow scholarships that would aid the department in attracting top quality students. Three named scholarships were originally established as earnings and gifts accrued. The third scholarship to be funded is The James Seay Brown Scholarship, named for James Seay Brown who was Dean of the College of Engineering at Tennessee Tech for many years. Dean Brown earned his B.S. degree in engineering from Tennessee Tech and later returned as a faculty member. He later became Chairman of Mechanical Engineering before being appointed dean.

Sharon Spears Borden was born February 19, 1951 and was killed in a car accident on May 16, 1977. She received her BS degree in secondary education – Math in 1972 and a Master’s degree in guidance and counseling in 1975. Sharon Spears Borden was the daughter of the late G.P. (Newt) and Betty Jo Spears of Cookeville. Her husband, David Borden, set up the scholarship in her memory.

This scholarship was established in 1989 with a one-time contribution by The Credit Bureau of Putnam County, Inc. to form an endowment.

The Tennessee Technological University Frederick L. Culp Physics Scholarship originated in 1985 and has been established to provide scholarships to incoming physics freshmen. The original scholarship was established by family and friends to mark Dr. Culp's retirement. The endowment was established in 1986.

David J. McCrary established this endowment to honor his parents, Don and Betty McCrary of Winchester, Tennessee. Although neither of his parents were able to realize their dream of a college education, they were keenly aware of the importance of higher education. Because of this awareness, education was always considered a priority. They are very hopefully that this endowment will allow many deserving students to realize the dream that they were not able to.

David J. McCrary graduated from Franklin County High School, Winchester, Tennessee in 1984. He received a BSEE in 1990 from Tennessee Technological University.

Brothers Chris and David Jensen established the Rebecca K. Jensen Scholarship in English and the Kenneth W. Jensen Scholarship in Engineering in memory of their parents. Their father put himself through school and, after two years at David Lipscomb College in Nashville, transferred to Tennessee Tech.

Donna and David Mitchell graduated from the College of Engineering in June 1976. The strong academics of TTU and the other experiences at TTU provided a solid foundation that has resulted in successful careers. The low cost of TTU at the time, work-study scholarships and co-op assignments, along with support from their parents, allowed them to graduate with no student loans. In appreciation for the gifts they have been given, they would like to give back to future engineering students at TTU through this scholarship endowment.

Mr. David Mainord established this scholarship in memory of his son Daniel, a TTU student, who was killed in an automobile accident in 1994. Daniel and his best friend were very good students who received financial aid to attend Tennessee Tech. On several occasions they discussed their interest to help (after making their financial fortunes) other deserving students. Mr. Mainord is fulfilling Daniel's dream with this memorial scholarship.

Mrs. Rozelle Huddleston Nash was a beloved resident in Putnam County for 87 years, with ties to the community that go back at least four generations. She was also a teacher in the area for 42 years, and started the first preschool and kindergarten programs in the area. As a proud alumna from Tennessee Tech, she obtained her B.S., Masters, and Ed. S. Her devotion to education inspired many of her students to pursue college degrees. The Rozelle Huddleston Nash Scholarship Endowment was created by Mrs. Nash’s husband, Mr. Earl R. Nash, in memory of his late wife and her love for teaching. His intent is to provide opportunities for Putnam County students interested in becoming teachers to afford an education at Tennessee Tech. Mr. Earl R. Nash was a beloved resident in Putnam County for 96 years with ties to the community that go back at least four generations. He was a teacher and a businessman in the community and was a proud alumnus of Tennessee Tech. The Earl R. Nash Scholarship Endowment was created in Mr. Nash's memory by his sons Charles and David. Their intent is to provide opportunities for Putnam County students interested in becoming nurses to afford an education at Tennessee Tech.

Wanda Ruth Howard graduated from Tennessee Technological University with a B. S. in elementary education in 1971. She died in 2013 at the age of 82 having spent her adult life as a caring teacher of the young children of Fentress County, Tennessee. Her son David created this scholarship in her memory.

Davis and Lou Ann Watts are 1969 and 1966 graduates of Tennessee Technological University. Davis graduated with a degree in Animal Science and Lou Ann graduated with an Elementary Education degree. Lou Ann received a Master's Degree in Curriculum and Instruction in 1970. Tennessee Technological University conferred the first graduate degree in 1969. Lou Ann was among the second class to receive a graduate degree from Tennessee Technological University.

Davis is the son of the late J.T. and Virginia (Ray) Watts. Lou Ann is the daughter of the late Aubrey and Cora Belle (Frizzell) Boyd.

The Watts Family has a long connection with Tennessee Technological University. In addition to Davis and Lou Ann, they have a son, James, and a daughter, Ann, who both graduated from Tennessee Tech in 2007 and 2000, respectively. Lou Ann's mother, Cora Belle Boyd, also attended Tennessee Tech.

It is the desire of the Watts Family to endow this scholarship as a way of showing their appreciation to Tech and the many faculty who helped shape their educational aspirations. They would like to pass along to others the opportunity of higher education.

This Scholarship Endowment was established to recognize Dr. Don Cook, retired Professor of Accounting and Finance in the College of Business at Tennessee Technological University. Don Cook graduated from TTU in 1951 after earning four letters each in baseball and basketball. He served as alternate captain one season and as captain another season in basketball and earned the Athletic Medal in 1949-50 as the Outstanding Varsity Athlete. He signed a contract with the Brooklyn Dodgers in 1950 and spent two seasons in their organization. He returned to Tech in 1956, serving the university as department chairperson and accounting professor until his retirement in 1994. This Scholarship Endowment was also established to honor the memory of Dr. Ed Waters, a former Professor of Accounting in the College of Business at Tennessee Technological University.

Teacher candidates are required to take a series of licensure exams to meet state licensure requirements. For many candidates, these exams begin in their sophomore year with three Praxis Core tests in order to be admitted into a Teacher Education Program. Then, in their junior and senior year, candidates have an additional two to four exams to pass (the number depends on the content area) to be eligible for program completion and licensure approval. The cost of each Core exam is $90; however, the cost increases for the Praxis II exams, ranging from $130-$160 for each exam. Additionally, a $50 one-time registration fee is required of each candidate. These costs have a tremendous impact and may create a significant financial hardship on many undergraduate teacher candidates. For example, an elementary education major who takes the Praxis Core and all four of the required tests for his/her licensure would spend at least $790 on the series of exams. This cost only includes the first exam attempt; the cost will increase if a candidate is unsuccessful on the first attempt and is required to retake an exam. In an effort to assist candidates who may struggle financially, this fund is intended to provide relief to candidates who should not have to delay their residency and subsequent licensure due to finanical hardship.

Mrs. Devonia Fout established this scholarship in memory of her parents, Jasper and Nora Cromwell. They were born and raised in rural Morgan County, Tennessee, and neither had the benefit of even an 8th grade education. They worked hard all their lives and even though they realized the importance of education in a changing world, the financial resources were just not available for them to even imagine their children going beyond high school.

However, Devonia was fortunate enough to have a high school principal, Vernell Ellis, who realized that she might have some potential. Mr. Ellis helped Devonia obtain a scholarship at Tennessee Tech so that all fees would be covered along with part of what was needed for books. In addition, Mr. Ellis made the necessary contacts to find a work situation in the Cookeville community so that Devonia could do household chores for her room and board.

Since graduating from Tech, Devonia has always wanted to be able somehow to assist other deserving students from Morgan County who dream of a brighter future but do not have the financial means (or a Mr. Ellis) to help make their dreams a reality. She is sure that there are many academically deserving students in that area who haven’t even a hope of attending college and being able to take advantage of the opportunities that would then be available to them. In today’s world, a college education is almost a necessity in order to have doors of opportunity opened, and it is a shame for a talented young person to be deprived of that education because of a lack of funds.

Tennessee Tech and many benefactors provided Devonia with one of her greatest assets – an education! She feels that one of the best ways to memorialize her parents is to establish a scholarship for deserving students from Sunbright High School in their memory. If even a small amount of financial assistance could enable a deserving student to attend college, thus improving their future and providing opportunities probably never imagined, then she feels she has not only honored her parents' memory but also provided hope and possibly future leadership for the community as a whole.

The Thomas Weitzel Memorial Scholarship Endowment was established by Lois N. Weitzel and Webb H. Weitzel in memory of their son, Thomas, who preceded them in death. Lois and Webb have since passed away, and Dee Marcy, Thomas's sister, now receives updates and thank you letters from this scholarship.

This endowment was established through contributions in memory of Fannie Rice (Fice) Lawson, wife of Dr. Hoyle D. Lawson, former Vice President of Student Services at Tennessee Technological University. With this award, Mrs. Lawson is recognized for her dedication to the Kappa Delta Sisterhood.

The original scholarship was established by Dr. Harriet Bartoo (Barr-toe) in memory of her husband, Dr. Dorr R. Bartoo, a former chairman of Tennessee Technological University's Biology Department. The Bartoo Scholarship is the 2nd oldest continuous student award at Tennessee Technological University, having originated in 1948. The recipient is chosen by the Biology Faculty and is given to the most outstanding junior or senior biology major. The scholarship is based not only on scholastic ability, but also on personal attributes, student and community involvement. Dr. Bartoo was the first doctor of philosophy to be added to the faculty of Tennessee Tech. He was head of the department of biological science at Tennessee Tech (then known as Tennessee Polytechnic Institute) from 1929 until his death in 1943.

Dr. Vernon Allen served as Director of Freshman Chemistry Lecture and Laboratory and started the Chemistry Department Scholarship Fund using funds from the sale of laboratory manuals that he wrote with professors Skinner, Singer, and Jewell. This practice has continued since the 1970's and has involved many current and past faculty members in the chemistry department.

The Sidney McGee Journalism Scholarship Endowment was established in 1974 in honor of his retirement.

The Electrical and Computer Engineering (ECE) Scholarship Endowment was established at Tennessee Technological University to provide scholarships to electrical and computer engineering majors to encourage outstanding performance and to support needy students. Over the years ECE alumni and friends have contributed to scholarships, and sufficient funds have accumulated within the Engineering Development Foundation to establish an endowment that will continually provide a source of scholarship income. The Eta Kappa Nu Scholarship Endowment was begun in 1985 by the student members of the Epsilon Rho Chapter of HKN at Tennessee Technological University. After several years of effort, the endowment reached a level of funding sufficient to allow scholarships to be awarded. Eta Kappa Nu (HKN) is the International Honor Society for Electrical Engineers. The purpose of HKN is to stimulate scholarship and service. It seeks to assist its members in becoming better professionals as well as better citizens. It also aims to be a constructive force for members and non-members by improving the standards of the profession, the courses of instruction, and the institutions where its chapters are established. Members are elected based on scholarship, character, and voluntary service. The Robert Q. Childress Scholarship Endowment was established within the electrical engineering department as a tribute to Professor Childress’s contributions to Tennessee Technological University. Mr. Childress served the University for 33 years, from 1955 to 1988, and was a principal contributor to the department of the Electrical Engineering program. Not only was he a mentor for many young men and women, but he also unselfishly served the community for many years.

This fund was established through the will of Mrs. Daniel in memory of her husband, Mr. Daniel, the first chairman of the English Department. The endowment was established on September 9, 1958.

Raymond Drost died on June 22, 1994 from complications following heart surgery. Coach Drost taught, coached, and/or directed intramurals at Tennessee Technological University from 1958 until his death. This scholarship will be for the purpose of commemorating Coach Drost and to honor an outstanding health and physical education major.

The Mechanical Engineering Scholarship Endowment has been established by the Department of Mechanical Engineering at Tennessee Technological University from funds in the departmental restricted account which were donated to the department from various sources for the improvement of the department. The faculty of the department felt that the best way to use the funds was to endow scholarships that would aid the department in attracting top quality students. Three named scholarships were originally established as earnings and gifts accrued. The first scholarship to be funded was The Masoud H. Masoud Memorial Scholarship, named in honor of Masoud H. Masoud. Dr. Masoud, who died in 1987, earned his M.A. and Ph.D. degrees in Mechanical Engineering and served as a faculty member in the Department of Mechanical Engineering. The John P. (Jack) Wallace Memorial Scholarship is the second scholarship to be funded. It is named in honor of John P. Wallace (d. 1971), a Mechanical Engineering faculty member who made major contributions to the development of the department's wind tunnel facilities.

This scholarship is funded by contributions from faculty and alumni of the Tennessee Tech physics program to support qualified incoming freshmen and current students who are declared physics majors. Currently, one award each year is named in memory of Dr. David Murdock, a popular TTU physics professor who passed away suddenly in 2013.

Dr. Edward Louis Greenamyre, anthropologist at Tennessee Technological University for over 20 years, endowed the scholarship to honor and memorialize his mother, Margaret Greenamyre.

Diana Baranowski is a 2002 graduate of Tennessee Technological University College of Business, having received her Bachelor of Science degree in marketing. Ms. Baranowski established the scholarship to assist individuals, like herself, who wish to better their lives by seeking a college degree. Ms. Baranowski, a non-traditional student, attended college while juggling other duties as a mother, wife, and full-time employee. She and her husband Derek, successful entrepreneurs and philanthropists, are actively involved in the community and desire to make a difference in the life of others.

The Tennessee Technological University Frederick L. Culp Physics Scholarship originated in 1985 and has been established to provide scholarships to incoming physics freshmen. The original scholarship was established by family and friends to mark Dr. Culp's retirement. The endowment was established in 1986.

The Kappa Sigma Fraternity Memorial Scholarship was established by family, friends, members, and alumni of the Kappa Mu Chapter of Kappa Sigma to provide scholarships to undergraduate members of Kappa Sigma Fraternity at Tennessee Tech University. Within this scholarship fund, separate scholarships have been named to memorialize members of the Kappa Sigma Fraternity. The Kappa Sigma Fraternity Dudley Scholarship is named for John David Dudley, a 1998 graduate of TTU and a 1994 initiate of Kappa Sigma Fraternity.

Dick Murphy is a College of Business Board of Trustees member, a 1959 Business Alumnus, and a co-recipient of the 2000 Board's Outstanding Business Leader Award. Dick served as President of the College of Business Trustees for 2004-2005. The Allen Murphy Memorial Scholarship was established to honor his father, Allen Murphy, and to recognize outstanding business students. The Ernestine Martin Murphy Scholarship was established by Richard (Dick) Murphy (B.S. Industrial Management, 1959) in memory of his first wife, Ernestine, who passed away in 1968 at the age of 31. She was a TTU Alumna with B. S. in Elementary Education, 1959.

Dr. F. Stuart Wells and Mrs. Susan Grunwald Wells established this scholarship to honor their parents and recognize outstanding BIT students.

The Leonard Dunavin Mathematics Scholarship Endowment was created by Dolores Nichols in memory of her father, Leonard Dunavin. Her husband, Earl Nichols is her closest living relative.

The Byrd W. Bohannan and Eva K. Bohannan Scholarship was established by Mrs. Eva K. Bohannan in 1987. Byrd Bohannan was from Overton County, Tennessee and worked at the post office there before moving to New York. He eventually became a postmaster in Little Valley, New York. Eva Bohannan was born in Ontario, Canada and immigrated to New York in 1935 after marrying Byrd.

The Don S. and Sarah P. Hayes Scholarship was established by long-time supporters of TTU, Don and Sarah Hayes. Don Hayes graduated from Tennessee Tech University in 1957 with a Bachelor of Science degree. Mr. Hayes received a football scholarship while at TTU and feels it is important to give back to the university as a thank you for the aid he received.

Ralph Lexie Freeman and Edith Carlock Freeman Memorial Endowed Scholarship

This scholarship was created in honor of Ralph Lexie and Edith Carlock Freeman, parents of Donald W. Freeman, Harold D. Freeman and Patricia Apple. Both Ralph Lexie and Edith Carlock Freeman are now deceased.

Don and Suzanne Freeman Endowed Civil Engineering Scholarship

Don Freeman graduated with a Civil Engineering degree from the University in 1969. Following graduation, he joined a large industrial corporation, but soon left to obtain a graduate degree. This led to a position with an engineering and construction firm where Don spent the next 44 years, retiring at the end of 2015. During the last ten years of his career, he served as president and Chief Executive Officer of Rentenbach Engineering Company and Rentenbach Constructors Incorporated. Don, along with his wife Suzanne, have requested this gift be used to set up a scholarship endowment to help support students in need in the Tennessee area who wish to pursue a civil engineering degree at the University.

The Dr. June Peters Almy Scholarship Endowment was established in 1991 by a gift from Mrs. Evva Jean Peters Ensor, mother of Dr. Almy. Mrs. Ensor was a 1952 Human Ecology graduate and lived in North Carolina.

Ethan Patrick Griffin was born on September 10, 1996 in Blairsville, Georgia. He grew up in Copperhill, Tennessee and was a model, straight-A student. He had a heart of gold, loved animals and would help anyone in need. Patrick attended Copper Basin High School where he was involved in the student council, band, and Copper Basin TV News. Patrick was a quiet soul, and people in his community didn't quite understand him; he fell victim to bullying. On March 5, 2015, Patrick lost his battle with bullying when he took his life. He was two months away from his high-school graduation and entering Tennessee Technological University, where he wanted to be a nuclear engineer, when his dreams were shattered. This scholarship was created to honor Patrick's legacy as a brilliant student and caring person.

Dr. Warren O. Essler and Dr. Doris Bush-Essler established this scholarship for undergraduates at Tennessee Technological University who are interested in preparing to teach academically gifted students.

Dr. Bush-Essler earned Bachelor of Science and Master of Arts degrees in English with history minors and an Educational Specialist degree in education from Tennessee Tech. She then went on to the University of Tennessee and completed her doctorate degree in education.

Dr. Bush-Essler started the gifted program in Putnam County and taught in the program for several years until her retirement. The program was called a “pullout” program because she worked only with the gifted in each school in small groups. This enabled her to teach topics that were not part of their regular studies and to concentrate heavily on thinking skills. Her wish for recipients of this scholarship is that they have the same teaching opportunities she did and receive the same love and satisfaction in return.

This scholarship is administered by the Agricultural Foundation. The Agricultural Foundation for Tennessee Tech focuses its resources on ways to enhance the education and college experience for students enrolled in any discipline within the School of Agriculture. Founded in 1972, the Foundation: • Brings together former students and graduates of Tennessee Tech with leaders in business, education and state and local governments to contribute and raise financial resources to support students; • Expands the awareness of the Tennessee Tech School of Agriculture with business and government leaders; • And, Recognizes the accomplishments of the School of Agriculture's Finest. The Foundation awards almost $25,000 each year in scholarships and awards to Tennessee Tech students. The Foundation also provides volunteers and financial resources to support many activities of the School of Agriculture such as the Academic Bowl, recognition for State and National FFA Officers, a Student Recognition Banquet, and Student Recruitment Efforts.

In a testament of their support of Tennessee Tech and its agriculture and education programs, W. Doyle and Melford Stone Smith have established this scholarship endowment to help incoming TTU freshmen from Dekalb County earn their education. Mr. Smith is a 1950 agriculture graduate who spent much of his career in the agrichemical business. The Smiths reside in Dekalb County, Tennessee.

The Wallace S. and Margaret H. Prescott Scholarship was established as a tribute to Dr. and Mrs. Prescott by their friends and associates at the time of his retirement in 1983. Dr. Prescott graduated from Tennessee Tech in 1946 and remained at Tech to teach engineering for 16 years. He also served as provost and vice president for academic affairs for 21 years. After his retirement, Dr. Prescott returned to Tech to serve as interim president from 1985 to 1987. Mrs. Prescott, class of 1945, was the first female student body president at Tennessee Tech.

Tai Payne Hintz, daughter of Douglas Payne, received both her bachelor’s as well as her master’s degrees from the University. The support she received throughout her time at the University led her first to a nursing position in Nashville and then to successfully completing her Family Nurse Practitioner training. She received so much from the Whitson-Hester School of Nursing, that the Payne family wishes to return a small token of their appreciation.

The Jimmy Bedford Scholarship is established in memory of Mr. James H. Jimmy Bedford of Lynchburg, Tennessee. Jimmy grew up on the family farm just below Lynchburg, TN. He graduated from Moore County High School and then TTU. While at TTU, Jimmy met Emily Gregory, his future wife. Following graduation, he and Emily returned to Lynchburg to begin a lengthy, successful career at the Jack Daniel Distillery in 1968. He learned his trade from the ground floor, working in the yeasting, fermenting, milling and distillation areas. In 1988, he earned a promotion to master distiller for the oldest registered distillery in the United States. In addition to his duties as master distiller, he served as ambassador for the distillery, traveling around the world and talking with consumers, distributors, retailers, trade and media about the distillery and the process of making the product for which he was responsible. Under his watch, Jack Daniel's Tennessee Whiskey became the bestselling single label in the world with distribution increasing to more than 130 countries. He was revered around the globe as the representative for an American icon. In 2007, he was honored with the Icons of Whiskey Lifetime Achievement Award in London by Whiskey Magazine. He played an integral role in taking his product category to greater heights globally and earned tremendous respect from the industry for his pioneering of his trade. Since his retirement in 2008, he's been enjoying work on his farm, just a mile down the road from the distillery. He was involved in philanthropic efforts such as Duck's Unlimited, Wild Turkey Federation, Muscular Dystrophy, American Red Cross, and many more. He was a member of First United Methodist Church in Lynchburg, Tennessee. In addition to his many accomplishments, he was proud of being instrumental in the development of the County Water District of Moore County in 1970 where he served as Chairman of the Board as well as the honor of receiving the Distinguished Alumni Award for his alma mater, Tennessee Tech, in 2001.

This endowment is in recognition of (Eula) Jean DeBord Jeffers for her love and support to her family and her never-ending commitment to education. It is given by Dr. and Mrs. John M. (Doris Jean Jeffers) Clayton. Mrs. Jeffers was born in a logging camp in Wartburg, Tennessee on May 13, 1923. She was the second child of six born to Tyler Lee and Mossie Lee Davis DeBord. Never having completed high school, she achieved this lifelong goal by earning her GED when she was 60 years old after rearing five children. Throughout her life, her hunger for knowledge was ever present. She inspired and supported her children's pursuit of higher education with loving enthusiasm and consistently shared that encouragement with her grandchildren and great grandchildren.

The Garnett E. Murray Scholarship was created by Drs. Angelo and Jennette Volpe and Dr. Ernest DeWald and his wife, Joan, to memorialize Garnett E. Murray, Father of Jeannette Volpe and Joan DeWald. Mr. Murray was a businessman throughout his career, working in many areas of business (accounting, sales and management). He was also a strong advocate of education. It is, therefore, fitting that a scholarship in the College of Business be established in his memory.

The Angelo and Jennette Volpe Scholarship was funded by and named for Angelo and Jennette Volpe, President and First Lady of Tennessee Technological University from 1987-2000. The scholarship was established to support students pursuing an education in the fields of Arts and Sciences. Dr. Angelo Volpe passed away in May 2022. 

Dr. Koci is a first-generation college graduate and the first in her family to choose a career in the medical field. Her parents could not afford to send her to college, so she had to take the long way to become a nurse. First, she earned an RN diploma from Michael Reese Hospital in Chicago, Illinois and then an FNP certificate from Indiana University Northwest in Gary, Indiana.  While working full-time as a family nurse practitioner in the Upper Cumberland region, Dr. Koci entered the University to get her BSN degree. Around the time she completed her RN to BSN from the University, the field was changing and, consequently, she pursued her MSN from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville. While there, she had a patient who changed the trajectory of her career by convincing her to pursue a Ph.D. from Emory University in Atlanta, Georgia. Dr. Koci has had a phenomenal life journey as a result of her nursing career, caring for wonderful patients and presenting her research internationally. While pursuing education, she experienced many financial demands. For that reason, she would like to help ease that burden for others while they are pursuing their BSN.

She was Anne Floyd when she entered nursing school and Anne Koci when she graduated with her diploma. She dedicates this scholarship to her parents, the late Fairfax and Mary Ellen Floyd, and also to her late husband, Mark Koci. Without their love and support, Dr. Koci could never have had such a phenomenal life.

The Arliss and Mary Etta Roaden Scholarship was established as a tribute to Dr. Arliss L. Roaden (1930-2016) and Mary Etta Roaden. Dr. Roaden served as President of Tennessee Technological University from 1974 to 1985. The scholarship is intended to recognize the Roadens' longstanding personal commitment to education and their efforts to increase private scholarship support for Tennessee Tech students.

The original endowment was established June 27, 1989 between Tennessee Technological University and Dr. Robert Swindell and Dr. Barbara Jackson.

The donors established an endowed research fund through gifts of cash over a 10-year period. The purpose of the endowment is to benefit worthy and capable students enrolled at Tennessee Technological University in the Department of Chemistry, College of Arts and Sciences.

The fund is intended to encourage students who have demonstrated the capacity to achieve educational and professional goals, to provide motivation to achieve these goals and to promote initiative to seek opportunities to further their progress.

Although he was able to see the product of this award for many years, Dr. Swindell lost his fight with cancer in April of 2014.

Marie Ventrice Endowed Engineering Scholarship

Dr. Corinne Darvennes and Dr. Sally Pardue have established the Marie B. Ventrice Engineering Scholarship Endowment at Tennessee Technological University. The endowment is to recognize Dr. Marie Ventrice’s engineering and educational career and to applaud her role as a mentor for women in the field of engineering.

Dr. Carl A. Ventrice, Sr. Memorial Scholarship Endowment

This memorial scholarship is created in honor of Dr. Carl A. Ventrice, Sr., who passed away on December 27, 2020 at the age of 90. He served as a faculty member at the University for more than 45 years, retiring from the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering in 2011.

Ventrice was a graduate from Pennsylvania State University with a B.S. in electrical engineering, M.S. in physics and Ph.D. in nuclear physics. While studying at Penn State, he met his future wife, Marie Busck. Tech alumni know Marie Busck Ventrice as Tech's first Ph.D. graduate. She graduated in 1974 with a Ph.D. in engineering and went on to be the associate dean of Tech's College of Engineering.

After obtaining his Ph.D., Ventrice began working for the defense contractor Analytic Services in Washington, D.C., before moving to Cookeville in 1964 and joining the faculty of the Physics Department at Tech (then known as Tennessee Polytechnic Institute). The family then moved to Auburn, Alabama, but Wallace Prescott soon recruited Ventrice back to Tech, where he had a long career teaching electrical engineering and physics students and doing research in the areas of plasma science, laser technology and electromagnetic field propagation and scattering.

This endowment is established to honor the legacy of internationally acclaimed Latvian pianist Herman Godes. The scholarship will be awarded to a talented piano major at TTU. Herman Godes, prominent pianist, teacher and husband to Catherine, coordinator of piano studies at TTU, died in 2007. A student of legendary pianists Walter Gieseking and Robert Casadesus, Godes was a survivor of Nazi concentration caps during World War II. Liberated by US troops in 1945, Godes resumed his career under the auspices of Columbia Artists Management and toured the North American continent as a Steinway Artist. In 1960, he accepted the position of Artist-in-Residence at West Virginia University where he continued a long and distinguished career. When his wife, pianist Catherine Godes, accepted the position of Professor of Piano at TTU, the Godes moved to Cookeville, where the two established themselves as teachers and performers. They dedicated themselves to mentoring young pianists. Dr. Catherine Godes continued her husband's legacy at TTU and, by establishing this scholarship, she hopes to inspire and encourage young pianists and keep area musical standards at the highest artistic level.

Dr. Corinne Darvennes and Dr. Sally Pardue have established the Marie B. Ventrice Engineering Scholarship Endowment at Tennessee Technological University. The endowment is to recognize Dr. Marie Ventrice’s engineering and educational career and to applaud her role as a mentor for women in the field of engineering.

Dr. Edward Reece and his mother, Mrs. Joyce Reece, desire to support the College of Agriculture and Human Ecology with the establishment of three endowments from the proceeds of the sale of their donated home.  The paragraphs below outline the impetus for each endowment.

The Nova Glasscock Endowed Scholarship
The Glasscock family were earlier settlers in Overton county and endured many hardships and joys while living near what is now Standing Stone Park.  

Nova Glasscock, the beloved matriarch of the 20th century Glasscock clan, brought together people through a devoted love for our Blessed Lord Jesus Christ and her indomitable love for her family.   

It was her desire that all of her children do well and have the skills required to serve others.  It is with this same spirit that we hope her scholarship endows its recipients with the means necessary to achieve the goals of servant leaders in agriculture.  

John Martin Reece Endowed Scholarship
John Martin Reece was a farmer from Tennessee who sacrificed deeply to educate his family and believed in education as a means for self-reliance and self-actualization.  It was his hope that a scholarship supporting agriculture would strengthen families in Tennessee and beyond.

The College of Agriculture and Human Ecology Endowment.
Dr. Edward Reece and his mother, Joyce Reece, recognize the need for a general endowment benefiting the College of Agriculture and Human Ecology to allow the Dean access to discretionary funds.

Dr. Elinor Ross, Tennessee Technological University Professor Emerita, spent 31 years teaching reading methods and children's literature courses. Her love for children, and her firm belief that reading is the key to learning success, inspired countless numbers of her students to become successful educators in their own right, and positively influenced generations of young minds. Being read to is critical in reading development. Through this endowment and the summer reading camp it supports, the College of Education (Hereinafter College) will foster the love of reading in chidren of the Upper Cumberland, create a stronger pleasure of reading, and encourage reading for enjoyement. There is currently a need within the College for more undergraduate scholarships. This endowment will be organized to help undergraduate students who have a passion for reading.

Dr. Harvey G. and Anne Neufeldt were long-time members of the Tennessee Tech University community arriving in 1970. A first-generation scholar who grew up on a farm in British Columbia, Canada, as a child Dr. Neufeldt never imagined he would one day have the opportunity to attend college, let alone become a tenured university professor. In honor of TTU’s 75th anniversary in 1991, Dr. Neufeldt co-authored The Search for Identity: A History of Tennessee Technological University, 1915-1985 (Neufeldt & Dickinson, 1991).

Passionate about the transformative power of education, Harvey served as professor of Curriculum and Instruction while Anne served as administrative assistant in Electrical Engineering prior to their retirement in 2000 and 1997 respectively.  They mentored countless undergraduate and graduate students. As educators, Harvey and Anne took tremendous pride in seeing students thrive in their chosen studies and careers. They were also enormously proud of their children, Beverly Wagner, Sharon Carter, and Ellen Neufeldt who are all TTU alumni.

The Phi Delta Kappa Education Service Award was first established at TTU by Harvey in 1992 and he contributed to it faithfully for almost 30 years. Today it honors the legacy of Dr. Harvey G. and Anne Neufeldt and their dedication to student success. This scholarship also acknowledges their love of family and friends, and their deeply held value of service to others which they modeled throughout their lives.

This scholarship was created by Drs. Angelo and Jennette Volpe and Dr. Ernest DeWald and his wife, Joan, to memorialize Garnett E. Murray, Father of Jeannette Volpe and Joan DeWald. Mr. Murray was a businessman throughout his career, working in many areas of business (accounting, sales and management). He was also a strong advocate of education. It is, therefore, fitting that a scholarship in the College of Business be established in his memory.

Dr. Harvey G. and Anne Neufeldt were long-time members of the Tennessee Tech University community arriving in 1970. A first-generation scholar who grew up on a farm in British Columbia, Canada, as a child Dr. Neufeldt never imagined he would one day have the opportunity to attend college, let alone become a tenured university professor. In honor of TTU’s 75th anniversary in 1991, Dr. Neufeldt co-authored The Search for Identity: A History of Tennessee Technological University, 1915-1985 (Neufeldt & Dickinson, 1991).

Passionate about the transformative power of education, Harvey served as professor of Curriculum and Instruction while Anne served as administrative assistant in Electrical Engineering prior to their retirement in 2000 and 1997 respectively.  They mentored countless undergraduate and graduate students. As educators, Harvey and Anne took tremendous pride in seeing students thrive in their chosen studies and careers. They were also enormously proud of their children, Beverly Wagner, Sharon Carter, and Ellen Neufeldt who are all TTU alumni.

The Phi Delta Kappa Education Service Award was first established at TTU by Harvey in 1992 and he contributed to it faithfully for almost 30 years. Today it honors the legacy of Dr. Harvey G. and Anne Neufeldt and their dedication to student success. This scholarship also acknowledges their love of family and friends, and their deeply held value of service to others which they modeled throughout their lives.

This memorial scholarship is created in honor of Dr. Carl A. Ventrice, Sr., who passed away on December 27, 2020 at the age of 90. He served as a faculty member at the University for more than 45 years, retiring from the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering in 2011.

Ventrice was a graduate from Pennsylvania State University with a B.S. in electrical engineering, M.S. in physics and Ph.D. in nuclear physics. While studying at Penn State, he met his future wife, Marie Busck. Tech alumni know Marie Busck Ventrice as Tech's first Ph.D. graduate. She graduated in 1974 with a Ph.D. in engineering and went on to be the associate dean of Tech's College of Engineering.

After obtaining his Ph.D., Ventrice began working for the defense contractor Analytic Services in Washington, D.C., before moving to Cookeville in 1964 and joining the faculty of the Physics Department at Tech (then known as Tennessee Polytechnic Institute). The family then moved to Auburn, Alabama, but Wallace Prescott soon recruited Ventrice back to Tech, where he had a long career teaching electrical engineering and physics students and doing research in the areas of plasma science, laser technology and electromagnetic field propagation and scattering.
 

The Garnett E. Murray Scholarship was created by Drs. Angelo and Jennette Volpe and Dr. Ernest DeWald and his wife, Joan, to memorialize Garnett E. Murray, Father of Jeannette Volpe and Joan DeWald. Mr. Murray was a businessman throughout his career, working in many areas of business (accounting, sales and management). He was also a strong advocate of education. It is, therefore, fitting that a scholarship in the College of Business be established in his memory.

The Angelo and Jennette Volpe Scholarship was funded by and named for Angelo and Jennette Volpe, President and First Lady of Tennessee Technological University from 1987-2000. The scholarship was established to support students pursuing an education in the fields of Arts and Sciences. Dr. Angelo Volpe passed away in May 2022. 

This endowment was established in 1997 by Dr. Jere L. Mitchum to advance the teaching of writing excellence in the Department of English at the University. It was originally intended to provide the hardware and furnishings for the Dr. Jere L. Mitchum Computer Classroom in the Department of English. Upon the University’s assumption of responsibility for the classroom, the gift agreement was expanded in 2005 and again in 2016 to support the Department’s various enrichment activities. Before his retirement, Dr. Mitchum taught for 30 years at University. He taught freshman composition, American literature, and technical communication and was also the Director of Freshman Composition.

Dr. John Mark Clayton and his wife Doris Jean Jeffers Clayton created this scholarship to be utilized as a tool to financially assist students seeking a quality education from Tennessee Tech. Dr. Clayton received his B.S. from TTU and a doctorate of philosophy in pharmaceutical sciences from the University of Tennessee. Doris completed her pre-nursing curriculum at TTU followed by a B.S.N. at the University of Tennessee. They appreciate the excellent education received at Tech and understand the importance of quality education.

Dr. Johnny Miller is a retired professor from the Department of Exercise Science, Physical Education & Wellness. Much respected and beloved by his former students, Dr. Miller was saddened in 2005 with the death of his wife of many years, Dot Miller. A retired teacher, she spent 40 years in the profession. He has established this endowment in her memory and for the benefits of the students of Tennessee Tech and his former department.

The Peggy Lamb Memorial Vocal Scholarship was established by family and friends in memory of Mrs. Peggy Lamb, the late wife of Dr. Marvin Lamb. Dr. Lamb was former chairman of the Music Department at Tennessee Technological University.

Anna Grace Janice Cooper was raised on a farm in Bristol, Tennessee and had a strong connection to all animals from childhood which led her to a love of horseback riding. She was an active member of the Holston Pony Club and won numerous ribbons in their championship competitions.
 
Anna is a 2010 graduate of St. Anne Catholic School where she competed in both cross country running and basketball. As a 2014 graduate of Tennessee High School, she was a member of the National Honor Society, Beta Club, Civinettes and the yearbook staff. Anna displayed outstanding athletic ability as a member of the THS Volleyball Team, a distance athlete on the track team, and a 2012 Cross Country Team Region Champion and State Qualifier. She was also a 2013 Cross Country Individual State Qualifier.
 
Upon graduation from Tennessee High, Anna earned a full scholarship for track and cross country running to Tennessee Tech. Her leadership ability earned her the title of Team Captain for three years in both cross country and track. Academically, she earned a spot on the dean’s list each of her eight semesters at the University. During her final semester, she helped the Golden Eagle Track Team win its first indoor and outdoor Ohio Valley Conference Team Championships while also individually earning the OVC Medal of Honor for perfect academic standing during her senior year. Anna was a member on the Distance Medley Relay Team that placed second at the 2018 OVC Indoor Championships. While at the University, Anna served as a team representative on the Student Athlete Advisory Committee all four years she attended. During that time, she was instrumental in the creation and success of a program named Back Pack Buddies that continues to provide weekend meals for over 1,000 underprivileged youth in the Cookeville community. In May 2018, Anna earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Human Ecology with a concentration in Nutrition and Dietetics.
 
In the fall of 2018, Anna began her dietetic internship at East Tennessee State University where she pursued a Master’s Degree in Nutrition. Shortly after the semester began, Anna was diagnosed with a rare form of cancer. She fought a courageous nine-month battle, but sadly passed away on June 17, 2019 at the age of 23.
 
Since Anna could not complete her Master’s degree, this scholarship was created in honor of Anna to support students who are pursuing their Master’s in Community Health and Nutrition in the School of Human Ecology.
 
The School of Human Ecology recently received approval from the Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics (ACEND) to be a pilot program in the new Future Education Model (FEM) dietetics education program. The University’s FEM program is one of only 3 FEM programs currently approved in Tennessee. The FEM program includes a Master of Science (MS) Degree in Community Health and Nutrition and the Experiential Learning hours required to sit for the Registered Dietitian/Nutritionist (RDN) certification exam. This MS degree is the first graduate degree offered by the School of Human Ecology and the first graduate degree offered by the College of Agriculture and Human Ecology. The MS in Community Health and Nutrition has a focus on rural health and will prepare graduates to improve quality of life in the rural communities of the Upper Cumberland region of Tennessee where many of them will work. Dr. Mary (Melinda) Anderson helped to create this new graduate degree program and wishes to endow a new scholarship to benefit these graduate nutrition students.

Dan K. Hearn Clarinet Scholarship

Dr. N. Lynne Taylor held degrees from St. Thomas Aquinas College, Tennessee Technological University, and The University of Tennessee Health Science Center.  A long-time physician in the Knoxville area who practiced at St. Mary’s Medical Center, Summit Medical Group, and UT Medical Center, Dr. Taylor cherished both medicine and education.  Though she passed away in in early 2019, her legacy will continue at Tennessee Tech through this scholarship she established in her estate to memorialize Dr. Dan K. Hearn.

Dan Hearn was a graduate of the University of North Texas where he received his Bachelor of Music and Master of Music degrees.  He joined the faculty at Tennessee Tech University in 1967 teaching clarinet, saxophone, theory, and assisting the band director. His students were always his main concern and he wanted them to reach their highest potential. He was clarinetist with the Nashville Symphony for 10 years and played with the Chattanooga and Knoxville Symphonies.  He also served as principal clarinetist with the Bryan Symphony for his 34-year tenure at Tech. As clarinetist with the Cumberland Quintet at Tech, he performed over 400 concerts both nationally and internationally including a performance at Carnegie Hall.  Dr. Hearn retired in 2001 and passed away in 2018.

Dr. N. Lynne Taylor Pre-Med Scholarship

Dr. N. Lynne Taylor held degrees from St. Thomas Aquinas College, Tennessee Technological University (where she received her Chemistry degree), and The University of Tennessee Health Science Center.  A long-time physician in the Knoxville area who practiced at St. Mary’s Medical Center, Summit Medical Group, and UT Medical Center, Dr. Taylor cherished both medicine and education.  Though she passed away in in early 2019, her legacy will continue at Tennessee Tech through this scholarship she established through her estate as a tribute to her time in the Chemistry Department.

After graduating from Tennessee Tech in 1956, Dr. Ray Jordan completed his studies at the University of Arkansas, University of Virginia, the University of Minnesota and Mississippi State University. He taught high school biology for five years and was an instructor of biology for three years at Eastern Kentucky University. He returned to the University in 1965 to accept a position in the biology department. Dr. Jordan taught in the biology department for 46 years. Dr. Jordan is well known for his research to restore bald eagle populations in Tennessee; working with the Army Corps of Engineers at Dale Hollow Lake in Middle Tennessee as well as the US Forest Service at South Holston Lake in East Tennessee. During his tenure, he was awarded the Outstanding Faculty Award twice, once for teaching and once for service. He was also President of the Tennessee Ornithological Society, a charter member of the Tennessee Herpetological Society and a lifetime member of the Herpetologist League. He was honored to receive the Tennessee Education Association's Distinguished Classroom Teacher Award. In addition to teaching, one of his favorite responsibilities at the University was serving as advisor and member of the University's Kappa Tau chapter of the Beta Beta Beta National Biology Honor Society. With this group, he began a process of recycling aluminum cans with the goal of turning the accumulated proceeds into a scholarship endowment for students in that department.

As a teacher at Capshaw Elementary, Lisa Webb Rand has spoken with several teacher candidates at the University during their residencies at Capshaw. She has found that there is a strong need for help as these students are unable to work during their time in residency. This need sparked a passion in Lisa to make a difference by making it a little easier for teacher candidates to participate in residency at the end of their college career.

Lisa Webb Rand changed majors two times out of high school at another university. When she came to the University and started in her elementary education program as a non-traditional student, she found a passion and has kept that passion ever since. She got her Bachelors in 1994 in multidisciplinary studies and her Masters in 1995 in curriculum and instruction. In 1996 she then worked as an adjunct instructor at the University until 2004. Lisa taught reading lessons and children’s literature block with practicums and worked as a coordinator for the America Reads tutoring program. Since 2004, Lisa has worked at Capshaw Elementary School in Putnam County. Lisa loves seeing residency students bring new ideas and energy to the classroom. Throughout her life, Lisa has required excellence of herself in her classrooms and she looks forward to seeing this scholarship help future teachers achieve the same excellence.

The original endowment was established June 27, 1989 between Tennessee Technological University and Dr. Robert Swindell and Dr. Barbara Jackson.

The donors established an endowed research fund through gifts of cash over a 10-year period. The purpose of the endowment is to benefit worthy and capable students enrolled at Tennessee Technological University in the Department of Chemistry, College of Arts and Sciences.

The fund is intended to encourage students who have demonstrated the capacity to achieve educational and professional goals, to provide motivation to achieve these goals and to promote initiative to seek opportunities to further their progress.

Although he was able to see the product of this award for many years, Dr. Swindell lost his fight with cancer in April of 2014.

Dr. Corinne Darvennes and Dr. Sally Pardue have established the Marie B. Ventrice Engineering Scholarship Endowment at Tennessee Technological University. The endowment is to recognize Dr. Marie Ventrice’s engineering and educational career and to applaud her role as a mentor for women in the field of engineering.

The primary purpose of this award is to promote active teamwork by student groups at the junior, senior and graduate levels at Tennessee Technological University. It will encourage creative projects utilizing Computer Science concepts that have social, scientific, or business impact on our community.

Dr. David Murdock was born September 16, 1954, and died suddenly at his home on Thursday, May 23, 2013. Dr. Murdock was a graduate of El Rancho High School (’72) in Pico Rivera, California, the California Institute of Technology (BS Chemistry, ’76), the University of Colorado, Boulder (MS Physics, ’83), the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (Ph.D. Physics, ’87), and the Nuclear Theory Center at Indiana University, Bloomington (post-doc, ’89).   Dr. Murdock served as a professor of physics at the University until 1989, and remained affiliated with the Nuclear Theory Center and the REU program at Indiana University, Bloomington.  Dr. Murdock was passionate about physics. He once shared, “I love doing physics. I decided to make theoretical physics my career because I enjoy applied mathematics and am intrigued by the idea that it can be used to predict the detailed behavior of the objects in the world around us, from the carts rolling on tracks in our physics 2111 labs down to the electrons in atoms and the quarks and gluons inside the nucleon. It is fun and challenging to try to understand the laws which tell us how the universe works and to try to impart some of the beauty and utility of this subject to students. No foolin’.”  Dr. Murdock also harbored a love of music. He performed as a chorister and soloist with the Mastersingers Community Chorus, taught an acoustics course dealing with the physics of sound, and maintained an extensive record collection.  He is sorely missed by the physics and music communities, as well as the broader Tennessee Tech family.

The Anderson-Elkins Scholarship Endowment was established to honor James Paul (1935-2002) and Frances Reed Anderson, parents of Susan Anderson Elkins, Paul Reed Anderson, and Gina Anderson Key and Ernest Gene and Reba Haney Elkins, parents of Tommy Elkins and Donnie Elkins. The purpose of this scholarship endowment is to assist working adult learners in their efforts to attain a college degree. The donors to the endowment are Tommy, Susan, and Andy Elkins, as well as other family members who may wish to make contributions in the future. The Aspiring Adult Scholars Award Endowment was established by Dr. Susan Elkins to honor the members of Extended Programs and Regional Development and the School of Interdisciplinary Studies for their outstanding work and dedication to serving adult students. Those being honored for their work through this scholarship are Bonita Barger, Clata Burden, Anabelle Frink, David Hume, Noel Poston, Debbie Thurman, Ken Wiant, Mary Pfadenhauer, Melinda Bybee, Steven Frye, Ken Hunter, Janie Robbins, Terry Webb, Theresa Ennis, Carol Boles, Debbie Combs, John Harris, Joan Maxwell, Jane Sipes, Jerry Neapolitan, Charlotte McGregor, Tammy Boles, Carolyn Fox, Dennis Parker, and Jeannie Smith.

Dr. Tom Collins grew up under modest circumstances in a tiny town in one of Tennessee’s most impoverished counties. From a broken home, he was the first person in his family to attend college. He earned his degree in chemistry at the University and completed medical school at the University of Tennessee College of Medicine. He eventually became a pediatric cardiologist after training at an Ivy League institution. Throughout his career, he has devoted a great deal of effort in leadership development and the training of others in medicine. As a result, this scholarship is established to help promising students who, like Dr. Collins, come from disadvantaged backgrounds and are pursuing careers in healthcare. Special consideration for this award will be given to students who are the first in their family to attend college and those from disadvantaged backgrounds. Applicants should articulate their plans for a healthcare career, as well as their background, in a short essay, which also includes their academic achievements and leadership abilities.

This nursing scholarship was established by Dr. Toney Hudson and his children, Heath Hudson, Shawn Detwiler, and Seth Hudson, in memory of his late wife and their mother, Haven Hill Hudson. She was born November 23, 1949 in Huntsville, Texas. Her family moved to Mississippi when she was young and resided in Holly Springs. Haven was active in her high school years and participated in three sports. She received the athletic award, was homecoming queen, drum majorette, and vice president of her class.

She met her husband while in nursing school at Baptist Hospital in Memphis.  Haven was a Registered Nurse and worked in the coronary care unit. They married May 1, 1971 and moved to Cookeville in 1976.  She worked as an oncology nurse at her husband’s internal medicine practice.  Haven was member of the founding board of Young Life of the Upper Cumberland and was a founding volunteer at the Cookeville, Pregnancy Clinic. She was also an instrumental part of the first Teen Challenge program started under the leadership of Judge Bill Baird Griffith.

Haven had a strong faith in Jesus and she had a heart for people. She was always interested in the details of the lives of others around her and loved fiercely. She was the greatest fan of her husband and was a prayer warrior for her family. She logged many hours over the years at sporting events, chorus concerts and all activities her children and grandchildren were involved in. Haven was very competitive and loved adventure. She enjoyed traveling, canoeing, playing games and cards and spending time with her family and friends.

She passed away on December 2, 2020. She and Dr. Hudson were married for almost 50 years. She made a lasting impact on her family, those she shared her life with, and those she briefly encountered through her journey in life. Her nursing background fit her gifting or reaching people with compassion, hope and care. In receiving this nursing scholarship our hope is that you would find an anchor of strength in a Bible verse she clung to. Micah 6:8 “He has shown me what is good.  What does the Lord require of you? To act justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God.”

Dr. Warren O. Essler, an engineering educator, and Gloria H. Essler, a registered nurse, established this endowment to aid engineering students. The endowment was funded with royalties from a textbook entitled An Introduction to Electric Circuits and Networks co-authored by Dr. Essler and with other supplementary gifts.

Bob and Kitty Niebuhr established this scholarship in memory of Kitty's father, Earl Haywood Evans, a Tech alumnus, Class of 1937. Earl was a mathematics graduate and an outstanding athlete, lettering in football, basketball, and track. He was very proud of what was then Tennessee Polytechnic Institute.

The Electrical Engineering (EE) Class of 1957 Scholarship was established to honor Tennessee Technological University and to assist deserving students in trying to achieve their degrees. It was initiated by two members of the class, Mr. Dudley E. Garner, Jr., President and CEO of Symetrics in Melbourne, Florida, and Lt. General, US Army (ret) Thurman Don Rodgers of Signal Mountain, Tennessee.

Dwayne Wasson attended the University from 1985-89. He was a cellist and studied music education. His formative years spent at Tech were an important part of his education. Through the generous support of his mother, Sandra, this scholarship is being established in the Wasson family name. Sandra is a strong proponent of education, and she has been generous in her support of students who are seeking college degrees.

James Joel Cowan was always a dreamer. So much so that he did not initially live up to his potential in school.  He was always conquering the world or flying off to space, or taking apart electronics and making them bigger or better. He got to live out his adventurous spirit by joining the Navy immediately after high school.  While honing his electronics skills in the Navy, a true passion for him, he realized he may actually want to return to school and earn his degree.

It took 25 years before he obtained an A.A. in Graphic Arts, another passion of MANY, and five more years before he obtained a B.S. in Business Administration from the College of Interdisciplinary Studies here at his beloved Tennessee Tech.  It took him two years as a full-time student, while also working full-time and commuting four hours a day to complete the degree..  But as with anything he did, once he was bitten with the bug to get his degree, he was hooked and did it to the best of his abilities, earning a place on the Dean’s list during each semester!

He lived a full life in his 52 short years, living every day to the fullest, but one of his proudest moments was hearing “James Joel Cowan, Cum Laude,” over the loud speaker at his commencement ceremony the fall of 2019.   

James (Jimmy as he was known by those who loved him) was a respected veteran, admired friend, beloved son, brother and uncle.  He was also an adored husband and father.  His family would like to now add “philanthropist” to his many titles.  They know he would be proud to be able to help students  achieve their degree toward  a brighter future, so that they too will be able to hear their name called out during commencement!

The journey was not easy financially speaking. He was not eligible for any type of financial aid through the government as a veteran, having been out of the Navy for more than 10 years when he decided to return to school.  Because of this, his son, Hayden James and his wife, Dylcia, are carrying on his legacy by offering qualified students the chance to continue their education through the College of Interdisciplinary Studies with the James J. Cowan Scholarship for Non-Traditional Veteran Students.

This endowment is established to honor Samantha M. Johnson, a 2022 graduate from Tennessee Technology University, majoring in Biology with a concentration in Microbiology. She was born in Tennessee and attended Clinton High School. Her determination, dedication, and desire to succeed in a science field has made her an excellent role model for recipients of this scholarship.

Mr. Earl McDonald is a 1937 graduate of Tennessee Technological University. He worked his way through college by alternating between teaching elementary school and going to college and developed a real appreciation for the value of an education. Upon graduation, he embarked on a distinguished career of 48 years in the field of communicators. At the height of his career, he was an officer in eight phone companies, a stockholder in four, and owned a cable television company. His tremendous success has allowed him to become a true philanthropist and he has pledged his wealth to support education, health care, and religion -- three very deserving causes. Because of the excellent education he received at Tennessee Tech, he has donated and pledged over two million dollars to the university. The McDonald Scholarship Fund will allow deserving students to receive an education at his alma mater. He has received numerous awards and recognition for his outstanding generosity, including the Tennessee Technological University Distinguished Alumnus Award, The Alabama Senior Citizens Hall of Fame 1995 Golden Eagle Outstanding Senior Citizen of the Year Award, the State of Tennessee Outstanding Achievement Award, and the Huntsville Tennessee Distinguished Citizen Award. Mr. McDonald and his beloved wife, Thela, who died in 1993 after 54 years of marriage had no children. This scholarship endowment will allow many generations of children to realize a bright future as McDonald Scholars. Funds from the Earl McDonald Scholarship Endowment fund the NACME Scholarship.

This scholarship was created by Earl Nichols in memory of his wife Delores D. Nichols who died on November 24, 1998. The scholarship will help students pursuing an education in the field of Library Science. Mrs. Nichols graduated with honors from Tennessee Technological University in 1957 with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Home Economics. She also received a Masters Degree in Library Science from George Peabody College.

Mrs. Nichols spent her entire working life in the field of Library Sciences. She served as a student assistant in the Tennessee Tech Library from 1955 to 1956. She was the Bookmobile Librarian from 1957 to 1963 and served for 34 years (1963-1997) as Assistant Director of the Upper Cumberland Library. She was serving as the Director of the Upper Cumberland Library at the time of her death. She contributed to the expansion of public library services in the Upper Cumberland Region and improved literacy and adult education in neighboring counties.

Mrs. Nichols was a member of the Tennessee Association for Family and Community Education, where she served as Family Life Chair and Global Chair, earned the Tennessee Extension Homemakers Council Certificate for Outstanding leadership and Honorary Membership, and was the Family and Community Education (FCE) District Four Woman of the Year in 1992. She won the Putnam County Extension Homemakers Reading Club Award and District Four FCE Program of Work Award, served as Charter President of District Four, TEHC, Treasurer of the Tennessee Library Association, as finance chair for the Public Library Association, was a member of the Southeastern Library Association, American Library Association, and mid-state Library Association, and served as past president of the Inner Wheel of Cookeville.

Mrs. Nichols devoted her entire working career to improving educational opportunities by making library facilities available to the general population of this region. She loved education and library sciences and it is only fitting that a memorial scholarship be established in the field of Library Science. Her husband, Earl Nichols, received the first graduate degree conferred by Tennessee Technological University.

(From a press release May 2005)

Don Elkins began his career here as an agronomy student in 1958, and he'll end his career here when he retires as dean of the College of Agriculture and Human Ecology this month.

Don Elkins, who returned to campus in 1995 to head our Agriculture and Human Ecology program, remembered what it was like to be a student and always made them his highest priority.

If I leave a legacy, I hope it is to be remembered as a students' dean, Elkins says. For many years now, my greatest rewards have had nothing to do with personal achievements, but in watching the achievements of our students and celebrating their successes.

I've always had an open-door policy and have tried to help students in any way I could to make their lives at the university better.

His outlook mirrors the example set by the late Willis Huddleston, who was dean when Elkins was a student and the person Elkins credits with keeping him enrolled.

There were a couple of times during my freshman year, I had my suitcase packed and was ready to just go home and work on the farm in Franklin County, but Dean Huddleston wouldn't let me, says Elkins. He made me promise to finish my first quarter, then my freshman year. He said he wouldn't stop me after that, but by that time, I'd found my place.
He continues to be inspired by Huddleston's example, although Elkins says he can never live up to it. They just don't make them like him anymore, and there's no way a guy like Don Elkins can fill the shoes of somebody like Willis Huddleston.

After graduating from TTU in 1962, Elkins earned both a master's degree and doctorate in agronomy from Auburn University in 1964 and 1967 respectively.

Later in 1967, he began what would become a 28-year career at Southern Illinois University in Carbondale.
I enjoyed my career there as an agronomy professor and researcher so much that I turned down some good opportunities at other universities, he says. I had no intention of leaving Southern Illinois. I thought I would be there forever.
Then in June 1994, he learned of the opening for our position of dean of Agriculture and Human Ecology. After some urging from friends and colleagues, Elkins decided to submit his application.

He started his new post on Oct. 1, 1995, but in August, as newly appointed dean, he was invited to attend the dedication of the new Hyder-Burks Agricultural Pavilion.

I felt honored to be invited to the dedication, Elkins says. It was such an impressive ceremony, and I remember thinking to myself that I had made a great decision by accepting this position.

The job hasn't come without trials, however. Elkins says his greatest challenge was encountering tight budget issues, but that the rewards have always far exceeded the challenges. Among his greatest accomplishments, he believes, is starting student ambassador programs both here and at SIU.

Our AG/HEC Ambassador program allows outstanding Agriculture or Human Ecology students to serve as recruiters of new students and public relations representatives for the college.

Overall, it has been rewarding to come back to my alma mater, establish the ambassador program and do the best I could as dean, says Elkins. I've certainly felt inadequate in that role in comparison to some of the great deans who came before me, but it's mainly the wonderful, dedicated faculty and staff who make this college what it is today.

Upon retirement, Elkins said he plans to spend more time visiting family, gardening, reading and attending athletic events, especially here and at Auburn.

Don Elkins passed away at the age of 72 on July 23, 2013.

The Dr. Norman C. Williams, Jr., Memorial Scholarship Endowment was formerly the Economics, Finance, and Marketing Faculty and Staff Scholarship Endowment. After the unexpected death of Dr. Norman Williams, the originator of the endowment, the faculty and staff of Tennessee Tech's Economics, Finance, and Marketing Department, requested the endowment be renamed in honor of Dr. Williams. Dr. Williams served as chairman of this department from 1990 until June 2000. In July 2000, he was appointed interim Dean of the College of Business Administration, when former Business Dean Robert Bell took office as President of TTU. Dr. Williams held this position until his death on September 5, 2000.

Dr. Williams joined the TTU business faculty in 1972, following teaching assignments at the University of Arkansas and Louisiana Tech University. At TTU, he taught finance, real estate, and insurance, and he was named director of the Division of Management Programs in 1976. He served as interim chairperson of the Department of the Economics, Finance, and Marketing for two years before being named to that position permanently in 1990.

Beyond his service at Tennessee Tech, Dr. Williams was known for his professional service to area businesses. He served as education advisor to the Upper Cumberland Chapter of the American Institute of Banking from 1995 until his death. He worked with a number of local attorneys and law firms, and he was a regional coordinator for real estate course offerings, coordinating pre-licensing and continuing education for real estate professionals in the Upper Cumberland. He was Region III representative of the American Institute of Banking, a member of the Financial Management Association, the MidSouth Academy of Economics and Finance and Beta Gamma Sigma. In addition, Dr. Williams was an avid fisherman and hunter.

Dr. Williams' family included his wife, Sue, two daughters and a son-in-law, Robin Cowan, and Charlotte and Mark Morton; and two beloved grandsons, Justin and Christopher Morton. Eight brothers and sisters also survived Dr. Williams.

The Education Foundation Scholarship is administered by the Dean's Office. Establishment of this scholarship gives students from the state of Tennessee with a record of outreach and community service an opportunity to receive financial aid to help pursue a degree from the College of Education.

After thirty-seven years of distinguished service at Tennessee Tech University in the Mechanical Engineering Department, Dr. Griggs has decided it is time to retire. His dedication towards higher education and his commitment to mentoring students at Tennessee Tech has touched the lives of many successful engineers. Present and former students, colleagues, friends and family have joined together to establish the Dr. Ed Griggs Engineering Scholarship Endowment to commemorate his illustrious career in teaching. Through the efforts of Pi Tau Sigma and the Mechanical Engineering Department at Tennessee Tech sufficient funds have been received to establish this endowment which will remain a permanent accolade for a job well done.

The Eldon Leslie Endowed Business Administration & Engineering Scholarships have been established at Tennessee Technological University as a tribute to Eldon Leslie by his friends and family in recognition of his service to the Upper Cumberland area during his years as the Executive Director of the Putnam County Chamber of Commerce. This scholarship is to be used to assist academically worthy students who would otherwise have great financial difficulty in attending the University.

The electric power industry is of vital importance to the state of Tennessee and the nation. To ensure that this industry remains competitive, it is critical to attract outstanding students to concentrate in electric power for their undergraduate degree. Therefore, this endowment is being established to provide funds for professional development activities and scholarships to encourage and reward successful upper-level students in electric power.

Dr. Elinor Ross, Tennessee Technological University Professor Emerita, spent 31 years teaching reading methods and children's literature courses. Her love for children, and her firm belief that reading is the key to learning success, inspired countless numbers of her students to become successful educators in their own right, and positively influenced generations of young minds. Being read to is critical in reading development. Through this endowment and the summer reading camp it supports, the College of Education (Hereinafter College) will foster the love of reading in children of the Upper Cumberland, create a stronger pleasure of reading, and encourage reading for enjoyment. This is currently a need within the College for more graduate scholarships. This endowment will be organized to help graduate students who have a passion for reading and will focus on the reading specialist.

In September of 2001, Dr. Elinor P. Ross, professor at Tennessee Tech, established the Phi Delta Kappa Undergraduate Scholarship.  She now wishes to modify this scholarship to support graduate students.

Dr. Ross served as an active member, officer, and advisor to the local chapter of Phi Delta Kappa.  She received her Master’s Degree from Tennessee Tech and her doctorate from the University of Tennessee.  She served as a faculty member in the College of Education for over three decades.

The John and Anne Hendrix Agriculture Endowment was established by Mrs. John P. Hendrix and daughters, J. Elizabeth Hendrix and Sybil Fagan, in memory of their husband and father, a long-time supporter of the School of Agriculture. The John and Anne Hendrix Tennessee Tech Assistance Endowment has been established by daughters, J. Elizabeth Hendrix and Sybil Hendrix Fagan, in memory of their parents. Mr. and Mrs. Hendrix's opportunity to pursue higher education after high school was very limited, but they valued education and made sure that both daughters could attend Tennessee Tech, where they graduated with degrees in education. They said, “Constraints kept our parents from completing the next level of education; hopefully, this endowment will help provide aid for students who face unexpected hardships/expenses and help them realize their goal of a college education.” J. Elizabeth Hendrix, a 1964 Tennessee Tech graduate and a career teacher in the Knoxville, Tennessee area, also expressed her desire to help students achieve their educational goals by establishing the J. Elizabeth Hendrix Scholarship.

Professor Herman Pinkerton taught political science at TTU for 38 years. During his tenure, Pinkerton coached 12 state championship teams and sent teams to the West Point national tournament twice. He received several honors in forensics during his career at TTU which included serving two terms as president of the Tennessee Intercollegiate Forensic Association, governor of the Province of the Southeast of Pi Kappa Delta and a member of the West Point Selections Committee. Professor Pinkerton was totally devoted to helping others. His students had many travels and awards, but the best part was the influence of his personality as he urged them to strive for excellence.

In January of 1977, the Jewell Nolen Scholarship was established at Tennessee Tech University in honor of Professor Emeritus Jewell Nolen, . The scholarship fund was initiated by a generous gift from Elsie Jobe.

The Carlene Hall Memorial Scholarship was established in memory of Carlene Hall, a woman who suffered a severe spinal cord injury on October 8, 2005 that changed her life forever. She was paralyzed from her shoulders down after the injury requiring, after much time and rehabilitation at Shepherd Center in Atlanta, that she reside in a nursing home at the age of 48. Carlene’s faith in God carried her through the many trials and tribulations that any quadriplegic goes through every single day, and she immediately became the bright spot of the nursing home befriending all who came in contact with her. She enthusiastically shared her faith and her strength in God with all who came into her presence.

In spite of her physical challenge, Carlene began to paint with her mouth and to make cards out of her paintings. She sold these cards to help pay for her living expenses. It was a very time consuming and difficult process for her to paint these cards, but she was very persistent and the outcome, consistent with her joyful spirit, was beautiful. She inspired so many people to try to do what they could despite the challenges life may bring. Carlene’s message to everyone was, “God is an awesome God!”

An anonymous donor founded this scholarship fund in memory of her friend.

The donor met Carlene Hall in April of 2006 when she volunteered to visit the nursing home through a church-sponsored outreach program. Carlene was so gracious, inviting the donor in to talk with her. The donor was amazed at Carlene’s faith and resiliency after suffering such a severe accident. She was confident that God had a plan for her and she was going to follow through with that plan. In visiting with Carlene over several years, the donor's own faith increased and she was blessed every time she saw her. Carlene’s positive attitude, her smile, and her persistence all contributed to her incredible personality. Carlene passed away in January 2009 after battling several infections. She is survived by two daughters, two sons-in-law, and four grandchildren.

By telling Carlene's story, the donor would hope that it can inspire others who have disabilities to go the extra mile, keep smiling, keep your faith in God, and as Coach Jim Valvano stated in his now famous speech, Don't give up. Don't ever give up.

The Jimmy Bedford Scholarship is established in memory of Mr. James H. Jimmy Bedford of Lynchburg, Tennessee. Jimmy grew up on the family farm just below Lynchburg, TN. He graduated from Moore County High School and then TTU. While at TTU, Jimmy met Emily Gregory, his future wife. Following graduation, he and Emily returned to Lynchburg to begin a lengthy, successful career at the Jack Daniel Distillery in 1968. He learned his trade from the ground floor, working in the yeasting, fermenting, milling and distillation areas. In 1988, he earned a promotion to master distiller for the oldest registered distillery in the United States. In addition to his duties as master distiller, he served as ambassador for the distillery, traveling around the world and talking with consumers, distributors, retailers, trade and media about the distillery and the process of making the product for which he was responsible. Under his watch, Jack Daniel's Tennessee Whiskey became the bestselling single label in the world with distribution increasing to more than 130 countries. He was revered around the globe as the representative for an American icon. In 2007, he was honored with the Icons of Whiskey Lifetime Achievement Award in London by Whiskey Magazine. He played an integral role in taking his product category to greater heights globally and earned tremendous respect from the industry for his pioneering of his trade. Since his retirement in 2008, he's been enjoying work on his farm, just a mile down the road from the distillery. He was involved in philanthropic efforts such as Duck's Unlimited, Wild Turkey Federation, Muscular Dystrophy, American Red Cross, and many more. He was a member of First United Methodist Church in Lynchburg, Tennessee. In addition to his many accomplishments, he was proud of being instrumental in the development of the County Water District of Moore County in 1970 where he served as Chairman of the Board as well as the honor of receiving the Distinguished Alumni Award for his alma mater, Tennessee Tech, in 2001.

The Energy, Technology, and Environmental Business Association is a non-profit trade association representing more than 200 small, large, and mid-sized companies that provide environmental, technology, energy, engineering, construction and related services to government and commercial clients. Their mission is to promote the success of their members by fostering market understanding, identifying business opportunities and advocating for our common interests.

The Engineering Career Awareness Program (ECAP) addresses financial obstacles students face during their college experiences, making it possible for them to graduate with a valuable engineering, computer science, or engineering technology degree from Tennessee Technological University. The program commences with a Summer Bridge program and continues through graduation. ECAP students are part of a supportive family, encouraging and networking with each other. The program components listed below are some of the ways the College of Engineering can help you reach your goals.

The Engineering Joint Council Scholarship rewards students who excel in participation in Engineers' Week activities planned and executed by the Council in February. Winning applications are chosen from various criteria including grade point average, community service activities, campus involvement and other leadership activities, and other criteria set forth by the Engineering Joint Council. The number of awards are given at a rate of one per academic department within the College of Engineering.

This fund was established by the English Department faculty in 1988.

The Byrd W. Bohannan and Eva K. Bohannan Scholarship was established by Mrs. Eva K. Bohannan in 1987. Byrd Bohannan was from Overton County, Tennessee and worked at the post office there before moving to New York. He eventually became a postmaster in Little Valley, New York. Eva Bohannan was born in Ontario, Canada and immigrated to New York in 1935 after marrying Byrd.

Angie ’87 (Biology) and Eric ’87 (Electrical Engineering) both grew up in the Kingsport, Tennessee area. They met at a University Christian Student Center retreat. While they were in line waiting for lunch one day on campus, she mentioned she had never seen the second Star Trek movie. The entire group of students decided to see the movie on campus later on that week, and Eric was a part of the group. As the week went on, people started to drop out and Eric and Angie were the only two who went, and hit it off from there. Eric is the 1987 Derryberry Award winner and Angie is in the Tennessee Tech Athletics Hall of Fame for volleyball.

The Tech couple has a strong affinity for the University and the Tri-Cities area. They have established this scholarship to promote Tech in their hometown in hopes that more students will matriculate to the University and feel the same love for their alma mater that they do.

Julie Ann (Goff) Brown (1971-2006) was a native of Putnam County, Tennessee. She graduated from Upperman High School in 1989. After a brief stint as a clerk with a local accounting firm, Julie entered the banking industry serving in cash management, collections/recovery, and teller positions. While with the bank, she completed her general banking diploma. With the desire to continue her education and unsatisfied with the direction her career was taking, she decided to enroll part-time at Tennessee Tech University as an accounting major in the fall of 1995.

With the successful completion of her first six credit hours with a 4.0 GPA, Julie made the decision to end her banking career and go to school full-time beginning in the spring of 1996. She served as the office manager for the local Service Merchandise store during much of her undergraduate work. Julie completed her accounting degree in the fall of 1999 with a 3.364 GPA while staying on the dean’s list most of her undergraduate terms. Graduate school would be next.

Julie was admitted into the Masters of Business Administration program in the spring of 2000 where she would focus on management information systems. It was during this time that she would make her next career move and begin to expand her accounting and management skills. In January 2000, Julie joined Premier Diagnostic Imaging serving as the controller for Premier and its three sister companies. It would be this job in which her full potential would be realized not only through the management of the day-to-day financial tasks, but through the development of new accounting practices that would serve the company for years to come. Julie would finish her graduate work earning her MBA in 2002.

In 2003, Julie reached her greatest height and her deepest valley. Isaiah Doyle Brown, her first and only son, was born on April 24, 2003. This would be a day for which she had waited a lifetime; she would take her greatest job yet – a mother. After continued complications following her pregnancy, she returned to her doctor for further testing. On June 24, 2003, two months after giving birth to Isaiah, Julie would be diagnosed with stage-4 colon cancer beginning a new phase of her life, a phase she would meet with the same determination she demonstrated during her college career.

With an initial estimate of six months to live, Julie would live another three and a half years. During this time, in spite of chemotherapy, radiation, trial drugs, and four major surgeries, she took great joy in being a full-time mother to Isaiah. She would also turn her attention to a new, more compatible, career of volunteerism. She would go onto become a volunteer with the American Cancer Society assisting in office automation projects and online fundraising for the Putnam County Relay for Life. Julie would also play a key role in the rebuilding of the Baxter, Tennessee (Tennessee Central Railroad) Depot and Museum as part of her community service project for Leadership Putnam Class of 2005.

Julie died in her home on September 10, 2006 at 7:30 a.m. This endowment was created from her estate in honor of her service, professionally and privately.

Erin S. Percell (Chemical Engineering 1989), his wife, Sheri L. Percell, and the Percell family have established this endowment in recognition of the value that Tennessee Technological University has historically placed on high-quality undergraduate education, and in appreciation of the financial support provided through the Engineering Development Foundation during Erin's education at the University. Erin's sisters Alicia Percell Mattson (Computer Science 1992) and Tamani Percell Pope (Business 1997) also graduated from the University.

The Percell family hopes that this endowment will make higher education more affordable for deserving students.

Erin Kimberlin Endowed Scholarship

Erin Pitts Kimberlin was graduated from the University in 2013 with a multidisciplinary studies-elementary education degree. Erin was a caring teacher, loving wife, and wonderful mother. She was always known to have a plan and loved to cook and bake. Most importantly, Erin loved the Lord. Tragically, Erin lost her life in the Putnam County tornado on March 3, 2020.

This scholarship has been established to continue Erin’s legacy and to give back to the community that provided so much support during the most difficult time.

Josh Kimberlin Endowed Scholarship

Josh Kimberlin was graduated from the University in 2012 with a mechanical engineering degree. Josh was a talented engineer, loving husband, and wonderful father. He was an avid fisherman, kid at heart, and will forever be a Jedi. Most importantly, Josh loved the Lord. Tragically, Josh lost his life in the Putnam County tornado on March 3, 2020.

This scholarship has been established to continue Josh’s lovable legacy and to give back to the community that provided so much support during the most difficult time.

During the Era following World War II and the Korean War, Tennessee Technological University, then Tennessee Polytechnic Institute, was flooded with veterans home from the military service and eager for an education. In an effort to help provide much needed housing, Robert Roe Bockman, who lived on North Dixie Avenue, responded by renting out five bedrooms in his house to young single men. Between the years of 1946 and 1962, he and his wife, Ada, played surrogate parents to nearly a hundred young men. The men went through a rigorous screening process before they were approved to move into the Bockman house. While living there, the men made lifelong friends, attended classes at TPI, and helped Mr. Bockman with a variety of chores around the house. This continued until Mr. Bockman’s death in 1962. Throughout the years that followed, many of the men kept in touch by phone and mail.

In 1998, a group of the first “Bockman Boys” reunited on Tech’s campus to retell their stories and share memories of their younger days. In conjunction with their final reunion in the Fall of 2004, the “Bockman Boys” wanted to leave a lasting remembrance of a great man, who had been a father to some, a teacher to others, and a friend to all. The Roe Bockman Housing Scholarship Endowment has been created in memory of Mr. Bockman and the influence he had on the educations, careers, and lives of so many young men. The endowment’s key initiators were Dr. and Mrs. Wallace Frierson, Dr. and Mrs. Douglas Norman, Mr. Ernest Robertson, and Mrs. Lucille Bockman Robertson, daughter of Mr. Roe Bockman.

Ernest Robertson passed away in April 2022 at the age of 97. His son Dave now receives updates about the scholarship. 

In a testament to her love for education, Mary Lee Brockington Stewart, through her estate, has established this scholarship endowment in the School of Human Ecology at Tennessee Tech. Originally from Florence, South Carolina, Mrs. Stewart was a 1936 alumna of Tennessee Tech. After finishing a degree at Winthrop College in South Carolina, Mrs. Stewart taught home economics in Cowpens, South Carolina for two years before moving to Wilmington, North Carolina to head up the Home Economics Department of the New Hanover County school system. In 1942, she married William Kimry Stewart, Jr., and they were happily married for 57 years before his passing away in 1999.

In March of 2007, Mrs. Stewart passed away at the age of 91 and has left a legacy at Tennessee Tech through this estate gift.

The Anna Scott Brown Scholarship Endowment was established through a bequest in Mrs. Brown's Last Will and Testament. Mrs. Brown indicated her desires through her will to honor Tennessee Technological University's Nursing School through student scholarships.

Mrs. Brown was born in White County, TN, in 1905. She was married to Arthur (A.D.) Brown. For most of their lives, they owned and operated Modern Dry Cleaners in Sparta. Upon retirement, the couple moved to their family farm and raised cattle and Airedale Terriers. Even after her husband's death in the mid-1970s, Mrs. Brown continued to live on this farm, where she passed away in December of 1995. Though she never attended the University, Mrs. Brown desired to benefit the medical profession by establishing scholarships for student nurses at Tennessee Tech.

In a wonderful show of support for Tennessee Technological University, Miss Anne C. McGee has left a sizable bequest in her will to establish a scholarship endowment in honor of her brother, Dr. John C. McGee. Dr. McGee was a long-time chairman and professor in the College of Engineering's Chemical Engineering Department.

Beverly Garrett, originally from Michigan but a resident of Cookeville for the last 20 years of her life, passed away in 2010. In a testament to her commitment to education, Mrs. Garrett left Tennessee Tech University over $400,000 to establish two endowments, the Garrett Family Nursing Endowment, in memory of her late daughter, and the Garrett Family Athletics Endowment, in memory of her late son.

Seven decades after Captain William Anderson earned a business degree from Tennessee Tech University, his legacy is becoming clear with an estate gift that is the single largest gift (estate or outright) in university history. When the retired merchant marine, who traveled the world but considered his university relationships his most enduring, passed away earlier this year, his gift began to come to fruition. Currently the university has received about $2.1 million. But with an upcoming auction on Dec. 6 of his home and personal property added to other liquid assets, the total gift may climb as high as $2.5 million. During these tough budget times, it is so appropriate that this historic gift will benefit students directly, said TTU President Bob Bell. The largest single gift in our history signifies how much university family members continue to care and support us throughout the decades. Anderson designated his gifts to 14 different areas -- 13 new scholarships and one existing scholarshipo endowment. Over the past couple of decades, Anderson financially supported student scholarships in many disciplines, often anonymously. Captain Anderson left a legacy that will help generations of young men and women achieve what he so cherished, an education from Tennessee Tech, said President Bell. Close friend Michael Birdwell, a TTU history professor, says you can't talk about Anderson without mentioning his interest in students. Birdwell says he met Anderson where most students met him, at TTU's Memorial Gym swimming pool where Anderson regularly swam a mile every day. He loved going to the cafeteria and just eating lunch with students, said Birdwell. He sort of adopted some students because he understood how important it was for those students to have him take them under his wing. Indeed, Anderson worked his way through school, encouraged by Charles Bryan, who was his friend and mentor. In his later years, he especially enjoyed the Bryan Symphony Orchestra because he was a former student and great admirer of Bryan. Anderson was born in 1918 to James Montgomery Anderson and Mary Jane Brock Anderson, friends of Jere Whitson, one of Tech's founding fathers. He graduated from Tennessee Tech in 1939 with a degree in business and went on to achieve his master's degree in education from the University of Kentucky. He entered active service with the Coast Guard, and then left to begin his tenure with the U.S. Maritime Service as an ensign. He spent the rest of his career there, becoming chief officer, then captain. After his retirement, Anderson reconnected with the university, often entertaining university guests in his home. He was well traveled and a most gracious host, Said Birdwell. It was a real treat to go to his house. Dinner often was quite an affair, lasting from 6 p.m. to midnight in European style. After Anderson moved to an assisted living facility in Knoxville in 2001, he still traveled to Cookeville often to visit Tech friends. After failing health left him unable to travel, Tennessee Tech family members visited him often, and some even helped him celebrate his 90th birthday. Anderson passed away in June 2008. Captain Anderson expected loyalty, but he also proved himself loyal to others, especially to TTU students, said Birdwell. Captain Anderson's last wish came true - to give all he had to students who want to attend Tennessee Tech. (From a news release published Nov. 25, 2008)

Clay N. Hixson, through a sizable estate gift, has established a lasting legacy in the College of Engineering at Tennessee Tech. Born on a rural Bledsoe County farm, Mr. Hixson joined the U.S. Navy after high school. After serving his country, he entered Tennessee Tech in 1950 as an electrical engineering major. Shortly after graduating in 1953, he went to work for the Tennessee Valley Authority, where he spent 30 years as an engineer. After retiring in 1983, Mr. Hixson enjoyed gardening and traveling with his special friend Mary Northrup. He passed away in March of 2009. The Student Ambassador Appreciation Award is funded by the Clay N. Hixson Endowment.

Dero (Ted) Darwin, Jr. was the son of Dero Armistead Darwin, Sr. and Clemma Masters Darwin, both 1922 graduates of Tennessee Tech and leaders in the early Cookeville business community. Ted was graduated with honors from the Interior Design Department at Parsons School of Design in New York City and went on to become a successful designer within the U.S. and Germany. Retiring to Cookeville, Ted remained active within the community through his church, the Junior Chamber of Commerce, local and state historical societies, the Cookeville Depot Preservation Committee, and CityScape. Through an estate gift, Ted hopes that Tennessee Tech students will gain the same appreciation of education that both he and his parents shared.

As a memorial tribute to his late wife Patsy, Hugh L. (Pat) Malone made an estate gift to support Tennessee Tech University.
 
Patricia A. Malone (Patsy) was a lifelong learner and supporter of education.  Patsy received her B.A. in Education from George Peabody College in Nashville and her Master’s in Educational Administration and Supervision from Tennessee Tech.  She taught at the University School of Nashville for 24 years, and, after moving with her husband to Cookeville in the late 1990’s, taught for several years in the Putnam County School system.
 
Though Patsy passed away in 2016 and Pat in 2020, their dedication to education will endure at the university through this fund.

Through a provision in her estate plan, James Haston has expressed his desire to support Tennessee Technological University by establishing a scholarship endowment for agriculture students. James was a 1976 Elementary Education graduate and a retired Tennessee Wildlife Resources officer. His true love was farming, and he spent many years working his large farm in the valley below Spencer, TN. James passed away from cancer in July 2002. James’ wife, Mevolyn, who has also made estate plans for a scholarship endowment in the College of Education, graduated from Tennessee Tech in 1969 with a degree in Elementary Education and a Master’s Degree in Education in 1973. Mevolyn is a retired schoolteacher and guidance counselor. Through the financial support their scholarships will provide to worthy students, James and Mevolyn Haston’s legacies will live on for generations.

Mrs. Jessie (Delois) Reed Cooper was a 1954 education graduate of Tennessee Tech. Originally from Overton County, she taught elementary school for 47 years. Though she taught for a time at Rickman School, much of her career was spent at Findlay School in White County. Mrs. Cooper loved children, and although she had none of her own, she treated all of her students as if they were her children. She passed away in 2004, and, though a bequest from her estate, established this endowment.

A native of Nashville, Tennessee, Larry Ferguson came to Tennessee Tech in the late 1950s on the GI Bill after serving for several years in the Army.  He immediately showed an interest in Industrial Technology and began his studies in this discipline.  While at Tech, Larry was a swimming instructor, and it was in that role during his senior year that he met a lovely young freshman honor roll student named Emma Thaxton.  Emma (known as “Ena” to family and friends in her hometown of McMinnville, TN), was attending Tech with dreams of becoming a teacher.  Larry and Emma dated throughout the remainder of Larry’s time at Tech.

After graduating in 1962, Larry obtained a job out of state with the Southern Railroad Company.  He soon realized, however, that he could not be apart from Emma, so he quit his job, returned to Tennessee and the couple promptly married.  After their wedding, the Fergusons moved to North Carolina for Larry to become a safety engineer with DuPont, which would be the beginning of a 30-plus year career for him.  Emma transferred her education to East Carolina University and graduated magna cum laude with her teaching degree.  For the next three decades, the couple moved approximately every 2 to 3 years and lived in 12 different cities due to Larry’s position.  In all of those locations, Emma found teaching positions at elementary schools, but it was difficult for her to establish “roots” at any particular school due to the short duration of their stays.  As a manager of the family finances, she became well-versed in the stock market, and enjoyed investing and buying and selling real estate.

After retiring in 1996, Larry and Emma moved to St. Augustine, Florida where Larry took up playing golf and riding motorcycles and Emma enjoyed gardening, needlepoint, and quilting.  They also travelled extensively.  Later, due to declining health, the Fergusons moved to Charleston, South Carolina to be close to family.  After almost six decades of marriage, Emma passed in 2019, and Larry in 2020.

Although connected to other higher education institutions as a result of Emma’s education, the Fergusons held a special place in their heart for Tennessee Tech, in part due to the fact they met on campus and in part due to the University’s reputation of helping students of modest means obtain college degrees.  Both Larry and Emma were the first in their families to attend college, and it is their hope that this endowment will help generations of students achieve their educational dreams.

Lula Alzena (Zena) Walker and Helen Wehrle were missionaries sent to the Cumberland County, Tennessee region in the early 1930s by the Tennessee Valley Authority to help families affected by the Great Depression. Their prime concern was to aid families with needed supplies and possible shelters.

During their time in Cumberland County, Miss Walker and Miss Wehrle met resident Fred Burgess.  Fred, who had lost his wife Liza, was a struggling father with four children, including two-year-old Mauda May, known as little Mazie.  Mazie had contracted tuberculosis at birth that severely affected her spine.  Through the assistance of Miss Walker and Miss Wehrle, Mazie received lifesaving surgeries that required a years-long hospital stay.  When Mazie was eventually released from the hospital, Miss Walker and Miss Wehrle adopted her and officially changed her name to Katherine Wehrle-Walker.

Katherine attended and was graduated from the Cumberland County school system. She later earned a nursing degree in 1957 through Memorial Mission School of Nursing in Asheville, North Carolina.  She then spent a 46-year career in nursing, 30 years of it at Prince William Hospital in Manassas, Virginia.  From the values instilled in her by her mothers, Katherine believed love was a condition in which another person’s comfort and happiness was essential to one’s own happiness.  She also felt that sincere affection and words of hope would give one wings to the soul.  After a life fully lived as a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother, Katherine passed away in March of 2021.

This gift, established through the will of Miss Walker to benefit her daughter through her lifetime and to now assist Tennessee Tech, is a perpetual testament to her life, and that of Katherine’s, which will help generations of students achieve their educational dreams.

The Everett W. Martin Scholarship was established in 1998 through an estate gift from Mrs. Betty B. Martin, widow of Everett Martin. Everett W. Martin was a 1950 Mechanical Engineering graduate of Tennessee Tech. The Martins lived in Tullahoma, Tennessee.

This scholarship was established in 1979 with a $15,000 donation from the Pepsi Cola Bottling Company of Cookeville, TN, and of Burkesville, KY in memory of Mr. Owen, a distinguished business and civic leader in Cookeville and the Upper Cumberland Area. Mr. Jesse Everet Owen was born and raised in the Smyrna community to farmer parents. After completing public school education, Jesse did farm work and odd jobs to earn tuition money for Pleasant Hill Academy and Tennessee Tech. After graduating from both institutions, Mr. Owen taught school at Morrison's Creek two years and at Rocky Point one year and then was named to the position of clerk for the City of Cookeville where he served for seventeen years. Following the example of a relative who took over a Coca Cola franchise and made a fortune, Mr. Owen decided to buy out Mr. Roy Luker, one of the partners in the Cookeville Pepsi Cola franchise, in 1941. In 1946, Mr. Owen bought out the other original partner Mr. John Wright. Before his death in February 1979, he established the Pepsi franchise in Burkesville, KY. Mr. Owen married the late Gladys Stringfield in 1945. The couple had one daughter, Katherine Owen. In 1979, Mrs. Owen donated another $15,000 to the scholarship; and in the late 1980s, she made a large contribution to the College of Business Administration's Capital Campaign to help establish the J.E. Owen Chair of Excellence in Information Systems.

Miss Sheila H. Officer, a 1931 English graduate of Tennessee Tech, has expressed her desires to support the university with scholarships in English, Agriculture, and Human Ecology. A lover of education, Miss Officer taught in the Putnam County School System for many years. This scholarship was established through an estate gift when Miss Officer passed away. Her cousin, Jeff Officer, receives updates and thank you letters related to this scholarship.

The Theodore R. and Bonnie R. Deur Scholarship Endowment was established by proceeds received from two trusts in Theodore Deur’s estate. Mr. Deur was a physician in the Freemont, Michigan area and his wife was a nurse.

W. Clyde and Marie Hyder were distinguished representatives of the ideals of excellence Tennessee Tech exemplifies - in both education and citizenship. Mrs. Hyder's service to the community included her devoted volunteer efforts with the Farm Bureau and the Cookeville Regional Medical Center. As the coordinator of the hospital's Lifeline program, her tireless work helped make life easier for many patients. Mr. Hyder's dedication to Tennessee Tech spanned his years as a student, a teacher for 34 years, chairman of the animal science department, emeriti faculty member, and treasurer of the Agricultural Foundation. His numerous awards and honors include the Distinguished Alumnus Award and the Distinguished Agricultural Alumnus Award from Tennessee Tech, the Tennessee Tech Outstanding Faculty Award, the NACTA Interstate Distinguished Teacher Award, honorary State Farmer degrees, listing in several Who's Who publications, and membership on many boards for community and state service. HIs most notable achievement, however, was the indescribable influence he had on his students and acquaintances. One such former student was Tommy Burks. Because of the strong relationship that remained between Mr. Hyder and Senator Burks, the Tennessee Technological University Agricultural Pavilion carries both of their names.

William M. Pease expressed his desire to support Tennessee Tech students through a gift from his estate. Mr. Pease was a 1949 Agriculture graduate of the university and spent much of his career as a publisher and editor, most recently at Pease-Riggs Publications, Inc. in Nashville, Tennessee. Mr. Pease’s wife, Dorothy McClanahan Pease, also had ties to Tennessee Tech through her father, Charles P. McClanahan, an education instructor at the university from 1921-1925. Sadly, both Mr. and Mrs. Pease have passed away. However, their legacies will live on through this scholarship endowment.

In an expression of deep commitment to Tennessee Technological University, Dr. William W. (Billy) Jenkins has left a sizable bequest to the university to benefit its students. A native of Sparta, TN, Dr. Jenkins was a long-time member of Tennessee Tech’s English Department. Though Dr. Jenkins passed away in December 2001 just short of his 72nd birthday, his legacy will live on through his scholarships.

Paul L. Scarlett is a native of Putnam County having attended Baxter Seminary and graduated from Tennessee Technological University in 1959 with a Business Management degree. Paul immediately went to work for Southern Bell (now BellSouth). He progressed through the Company in various assignments of increasing responsibility, retiring as President of the Public Communications Department in December of 1993 with 35 years of service.

After nearly three years of retirement, Paul became the Vice President and General Manager for NEXTLINK in Nashville, Tennessee. NEXTLINK is a Nationwide Competitive Local Exchange Telecommunications Company.

Paul and his wife of 38 years, the former Ethleen Prince have three sons. Their oldest son Darrell is a TTU graduate and is a lawyer in Murfreesboro, Tennessee. Mark lives in Portland, Oregon and has his own Investment Company. The third son, David, is Vice President and General Manager of a Telecommunications Manufacturing Company in Mobile, Alabama.

Paul has been active in various civic clubs and churches in the several cities in which he has lived. Among the organizations that he affiliated with were the Rotary, Civitan, Lions, Sertoma, and Boy Scouts. He is presently Vice President of the City Salesman Club of Nashville.

Paul passed away in October 2023, but his family continues to receive updates about the scholarship in his name.

Ruth Ann Kline taught at Tennessee Technological University Campus School from 1974 until it closed. She then went on to teach at Northeast Elementary until 1997 when she retired with a total of 34 years of teaching in several states. Eugene A. Kline came from Iowa State University in Ames, Iowa, where he received the Ph.D. in Organic Chemistry. He started at Tennessee Technological University in 1973 as Assistant Professor in the Department of Chemistry. He became advisor to the Chemical Medical Sciences Club in early 1974. He taught organic chemistry and directed 12 graduate students who received their masters degrees. He became chairman of the Department's scholarship committee in the mid-80's and became a health preprofessional advisor in 1990. Their daughter, Natalie, graduated from Tennessee Tech and went on to pharmacy school. Their research-scholarship was started in appreciation of the many good relationships the Klines had with their many students, faculty, administrators, and staff on campus and in the community. It is, also, in honor of their many students who worked hard to succeed. It is to be used to support basic research in order to help students develop essential skills in better preparing for a variety of careers. Eugene Kline established the Ruth A. Kline Scholarship in memory his late wife. He also established the Howard Ashburn Scholarship in memory of his friend and colleague.

The family of Bill and Wanda Seiler are proud to establish this endowment in memory of their parents and grandparents. Bill and Wanda believed in higher education, and made sure their children and grandchildren would financially be able to obtain a college degree.

After Bill passed away in 2009, Wanda spent the last 5 years of her life at Heritage Pointe Senior Living Community in Cookeville, TN. The employees at Heritage Pointe went above and beyond to care for her during her time there, and it is because of this that the family has chosen to establish a scholarship for nursing majors and employees of Heritage Pointe. It is their hope that after receiving so much care, love, and support from Heritage Pointe, they can give back in some small way.

Everett Gene Warren established the Everett G. Warren Family Scholarship Endowment to provide support to business students from Hendersonville High School of Sumner County and the Greater Chattanooga Area planning to or attending Tennessee Technological University.

Mr. Warren is a 1968 Accounting graduate of TTU. As president and owner of American Manufacturing Company of Chattanooga, Tennessee he established the American Manufacturing Company Foundation.

This scholarship was established by Jim and Evon Hicks to benefit the College of Business.

The Sandlin/Exxon Annual Scholarship is provided by TTU Class of 1971 Chemical Engineering graduate Carl Sandlin and the Exxon Mobil Corporation Matching Gifts Fund. Mr. Sandlin was recognized as 2007 TTU Engineer of Distinction and serves on the Chemical Engineering Department Advisory Board and is a founding member of the TTU Friends of Music.

This scholarship is established in honor and memory of Christina Ellen Monroe, a 1986 graduate of Wartburg High School and a 1990 graduate of Tennessee Technological University. Christina was a member of the Tennessee National Guard and served her country for 20 years in both active-duty and guard roles in the United States Air Force. Christina was passionate about educational opportunities and served as an advocate for others throughout her life. She passed away in 2023 after a courageously fought battle with cancer. This scholarship has been established to provide an educational opportunity for others, and to ensure her story, her impact, and her memory are not forgotten.

The late Mr. Frank Alexander left behind a legacy at the University of teaching, dedication and commitment. His relationship with the University first began in 1937 when he received his Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering. An outstanding student, Frank was later inducted into Tau Beta Pi as a charter member.

Frank always had a natural ability and love for athletics. While attending the University he played four years of varsity football and lettered in three sports. He later became the President of the Athletic Foundation.

Frank Alexander's 47-year teaching career began in 1946, soon after his departure from the Naval "Seabees," a U.S. Navy construction battalion mobilized during World War II. During Frank's teaching career it became apparent that his love and talent was in teaching. His contributions to the Basic Engineering department and innovative instructional methods go unmatched. As evidenced by continually being rated as one of the best instructors by the students, Frank took no shortcuts to instill the practical application of engineering concepts. Frank's ethics and ideals will indeed be immortalized through his students.

This memorial scholarship endowment has been established in memory of Frank Alexander and in celebration of his outstanding professional contributions to the College of Engineering.

Mary Jo Denton began working for the Herald-Citizen in 1975. She did not know it at that time, but her career as a reporter would last for thirty-eight years. Mary Jo received her undergraduate degree in English from Berea College, while receiving her Masters in English from the University. Mary Jo was the lead reporter, covering breaking news and crime. She felt she had to be on the ready, twenty-four hours a day. At the time Mary Jo worked for the Herald-Citizen, it was published six days a week and she was on call for each day.

Mary Jo retired from the Herald-Citizen in 2013. She received much praise for her work, not only locally but statewide, as she received many plaques and awards. In 2019, Mary Jo developed cancer and fought the disease until she passed away in August of 2024.

The Tennessee Technological University Earth Sciences Alumni Fund originated in 1993 and has been established to provide scholarship and departmental support. Dr. Walter L. Helton, chairperson of the Earth Sciences Department, along with various faculty and alumni, was instrumental in establishing this fund. Dr. Walter L. Helton retired on December 12, 1998, after 26 years in that role. The alumni and faculty of the Department of Earth Sciences wish to recognize and honor his service to the department and the university by designating that the first scholarship award, on an annual basis, from this fund be called THE WALTER L. HELTON ALUMNI SCHOLARSHIP.

This scholarship was established with a check from the settlement of the estate of Dr. and Mrs. Joseph Hix (spouse – Ethel), January 1976. The clerk was presented by Mrs. Marjorie Meadows (Mrs. John L.), Ethel’s sister and executrix of her estate. Dr. J. B. Hix and Mrs. Ethel Johnson Hix were Jackson County natives. Dr. Hix was a dermatologist in Altus, Oklahoma. He did undergraduate work at Peabody and earned his medical degree from the University of Nashville. He also did advance work at the Mayo Clinic and the New York Skin and Cancer Clinic.

Fred Khosravi and Flora Shirzad met while studying engineering at Tennessee Tech. Each was awarded a Bachelor's degree in 1983. Fred's degree was in mechanical engineering and Flora's was in industrial engineering. They had separately made their way to Tennessee from their original homes in Iran and went on to use their educations, excptional innovativeness and a tremendous amount of hard work to live out the American Dream.

Sharon Spears Borden was born February 19, 1951 and was killed in a car accident on May 16, 1977. She received her BS degree in secondary education – Math in 1972 and a Master’s degree in guidance and counseling in 1975. Sharon Spears Borden was the daughter of the late G.P. (Newt) and Betty Jo Spears of Cookeville. Her husband, David Borden, set up the scholarship in her memory.

Ricky L. Morgan was a 1991 graduate of the University, where he earned his Mechanical Engineering degree.  He excelled as a student and was a member of Tau Beta Pi (National Engineering Honor Society) and Pi Tau Sigma (Mechanical Engineering Honor Society).

Two generous individuals established this scholarship in memory of their son, Richard P. Gearing. Richard passed away in 1986 at the age of 23. The donors established the scholarship to remember Richard and because of their respect for TTU. The donors wish to share the following quote with recipients of the scholarship: Ignorance is the curse of God; knowledge is the wing wherewith we fly to heaven. --William Shakespeare  Frank Newbell passed away in January 2022. 

The Lucy Susan Holloway Memorial Scholarship was established by Frank M. Holloway Jr. and his wife Ruth Ventrice, in memory of Frank’s sister, Lucy Susan Holloway. Lucy was the daughter of the late Frank M. Holloway Sr., who had a long career teaching in the Department of Civil Engineering at the University, and Sarah Woodward Holloway, an accomplished writer and champion for mental health awareness and advocacy. Lucy was born in March of 1961 in Tallahassee, Florida and came to Cookeville with her parents and her brothers, Frank Jr. and Mark, in the 1970’s when her father took a faculty position at the University.

Lucy was a very kind, gentle, creative, and intelligent girl who was loved and appreciated by her family and friends. Lucy was diagnosed with schizophrenia in her late teens, and this sent Lucy and her parents on a long and difficult journey to gain understanding of the illness and to find the best resources and medical care to help Lucy. Lucy spent a great deal of her adult life in the care of Moccasin Bend Mental Health Institute in Chattanooga, as well as several group homes in Middle Tennessee.

In 2013, Lucy passed away from neuroleptic malignant syndrome, a complication associated with of the psychotropic medications used to treat her illness. The Lucy Susan Holloway Memorial Scholarship was established to honor the memory of Lucy and to recognize the enduring love of her mother, Sarah Woodward Holloway. Sarah used her talent as a writer to educate the community about mental illness and to share the experiences of her family in nurturing and protecting Lucy and Lucy’s younger brother Mark Holloway, who also dealt with mental illness during his life. Sarah Holloway has been a prolific writer throughout her life, penning works of both fiction and non-fiction. She was a long-time contributor to the Herald-Citizen, she wrote and edited a book about remarkable Cookeville community members called Cookeville Voices, and she wrote a heartfelt biography of her family’s journey with Lucy called Lucy: The Anguish of Schizophrenia. The book Lucy: The Anguish of Schizophrenia came to be adopted by the nursing school of Chattanooga State University as a resource to help nursing students to understand the real-life experiences of patients and families dealing with mental illness.

Dr. Kimberly Hanna, Dean of the Whitson-Hester School of Nursing at the University, has added the book to the nursing school library to give nursing students insight to the family impact of mental illness. The Lucy Susan Holloway Memorial Scholarship will be awarded each year to a promising nursing student whose goal is to work in mental health. It is the fondest hope of Lucy’s brother Frank Jr. and sister-in-law Ruth that the scholarship will advance mental health education and enhance health care for those who deal with mental illness. Frank M. Holloway Jr., a 1983 alumnus of the University, earned a Bachelor of Science in electrical engineering and has enjoyed a long career in project engineering in Nashville, Tennessee. Ruth Ventrice, a 1983 alumna of the University earned a Bachelor of Science in biology. Ruth subsequently earned a degree in social work from Middle Tennessee State University, and enjoyed a long career in non-profit management, community organizing, mental health advocacy, early childhood services, and criminal justice.

Fred M. Lowery graduated from Austin-East High School in 1988 and attended Tennessee Technological University. Lowery received his B.S. in Mechanical Engineering from Tennessee Tech in 1994 and his M.S. in Manufacturing Management from Kettering University in 1998. Fred M. Lowery went on to hold various positions at General Motors and Maytag Corporation. He is now a corporate executive at Thermo Fisher Scientific, the world leader in serving science. He established the Fred M. Lowery Scholarship Endowment with the goal of supporting the continued flow of well-prepared students from Austin-East High School to Tennessee Technological University such that they can contribute to the success of the university as they are being prepared to be future leaders. Fred M. Lowery also established the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity Inc. Scholarship. Omega Psi Phi Fraternity was founded on November 17, 1911, at Howard University in Washington, D.C. The founders were three Howard University undergraduates -- Edgar Amos Love, Oscar James Cooper and Frank Coleman. Joining them was their faculty advisor, Dr. Ernest Everett Just. From the initials of the Greek phrase meaning, friendship is essential to the soul, the name Omega Psi Phi was derived. That phrase was selected as the motto. Manhood, Scholarship, Perseverance, and Uplift were adopted as Cardinal Principles. On November 23, 1911, in Thirkield Hall, Love became the first Grand Basileus (National President), Cooper and Coleman were selected to be the Grand Keeper of the Records (National Secretary) and Grand Keeper of Seals (National Treasurer), respectively. Eleven Howard University undergraduate men were selected to be the charter members. Alpha Chapter was organized with fourteen charter members on December 15, 1911, Love, Cooper and Coleman were selected the chapter's first Basileus, Keeper of Records, and Keeper of Seals, respectively. The Chi Lambda Chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity Inc., received its charter on May 10, 1978, becoming the first National Black Green Organization on the campus of Tennessee Technological University. Over the years the Chi Lambda chapter has remained true to the fraternity's cardinal principles of Manhood, Scholarship, Perseverance, and Uplift. It was with these cardinal principles in mind that Fred M. Lowery initiated this Scholarship Endowment. Fred M. Lowery was initiated into Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., at the Chi Lambda Chapter March 3, 1989 with Lance C. Brown. Fred M. Lowery received his B.S. in Mechanical Engineering from Tennessee Tech in 1994 and his M.S. in Manufacturing Management from Kettering University in 1998. Fred M. Lowery went on to hold various positions at General Motors and Maytag Corporation. He is now a corporate executive at Thermo Fisher Scientific, the world leader in serving science. The Chi Lambda Chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., continues to thrive by initiating men that embody the fraternity's cardinal principles, Manhood, Scholarship, Perseverance, and Uplift, and binding them together to live out the fraternity's motto Friendship is essential to the soul.

Friends and family of Paul R. Isbell, Vice President of University Advancement, established this endowment at his retirement in recognition of his long and distinguished career with Tennessee Technological University. Paul began working for the university in 1985 as Professor of Military Science. Upon his retirement from the military, he was appointed Director of Development for the College of Business Administration Foundation. Named vice president in 1990, Paul served in that capacity until his retirement in June of 2005. Under his leadership, the university’s advancement and fund raising efforts have resulted in an exceptionally strong institution with a multi-million dollar endowment.

The Rebecca Foster Memorial Scholarship was established in honor and memory of Rebecca Dawn Foster, a beloved wife, mother, daughter, sister, grandmother, and friend.

Rebecca was passionate about nursing and caring for others. She believed in the calling of nursing and had a desire to support nursing students as they pursued their calling to the nursing field.  Rebecca loved God, her family and friends, and music. She was heavily involved in her community in Cumberland County and across the state, always working hard to bring healthcare providers to the area and to serve the community.  She often told fellow nurses that nursing was a “sacrificial profession,” acknowledging that a great nurse must put oneself aside in the service of others who are vulnerable.

Rebecca approached everything in her life according to Colossians 3:23: “Whatever you do, do it from the heart, as something done for the Lord and not for people.”  Rebecca was a devoted wife, mother, and nurse. She supported her husband in his personal and professional endeavors and was instrumental in his election as Cumberland County Mayor in 2018.  She encouraged her children to reach their potential and told them she was their “biggest fan.”   

Rebecca worked at Cumberland Medical Center for 29 years; working as the Director of ICU and Telemetry, the Director of Risk Management, and ultimately as the Chief Nursing Officer.  In her various roles at CMC, she was responsible for hiring new graduate nurses.  She was confident in graduates of TTU, knowing firsthand how well-prepared TTU nurses are.  In 2019, she left a 29-year career in healthcare to work as the District Director for US Congressman John Rose in the 6th Congressional District of Tennessee. Her background in healthcare was beneficial in working with constituents and healthcare providers in navigating the complicated landscape of healthcare and other issues.  Rebecca served as the Chair of the Whitson-Hester School of Nursing Developmental Council and the Executive Committee of the Developmental Council.

Rebecca was born to Wesley and Faye Neil of Fentress County, TN on September 30, 1968. She graduated from Clarkrange High School in 1986, playing basketball and winning the State Championship three years in a row.

Rebecca attended Tennessee Tech and graduated from TTU’s Whitson-Hester School of Nursing with her BSN in 1990. In 2012, she became a Certified Professional in Healthcare Quality.  She later graduated from TTU with her Master’s in Nursing Informatics in 2014. Her beloved husband of almost 34 years, Allen, graduated from TTU with bachelor's and master's degrees.  Both of her children, Brooke Wright, and Shade Foster, attended TTU. Brooke followed in her mother’s footsteps and graduated with her BSN and DNP degrees from TTU’s School of Nursing.

Rebecca passed away on April 24, 2024, due to complications from colon cancer. To honor her compassion, commitment, and zeal for the profession of nursing, her family and friends have established the Rebecca Foster Memorial Scholarship to help residents of Cumberland and Fentress County achieve their calling to enter the nursing profession.

The William B. Stradley Memorial Scholarship was established September 1979. Dr. Stradley who died in 1979, was a professor of educational administration from 1958 until his retirement in 1975. He served four terms as president of the Tennessee Professors of Education Administration organization, and two terms as president and two as treasurer of the University’s chapter of Phi Kappa Phi. Dr. Stradley had been a teacher in high schools and junior colleges in Virginia and Tennessee before joining the University faculty.

The G. H. Weems Educational Fund has established a Brig. Gen. G. H. Weems U. S. Army R.O.T.C. Scholarship for each of the universities in Tennessee having an Army R.O.T.C. program.

The family of Ezra H. Carwile and the employees of Carwile Mechanical Contractors, Inc., Cookeville, Tennessee are proud to establish this scholarship in memory of Ezra H. Carwile.

Ezra H. Carwile was born May 21, 1927, in Jackson County, Tennessee and attended Jackson County High School. After serving in the United States Air Force, he attended Tennessee Polytechnic Institute on the GI Bill, studying refrigeration and heating and air conditioning. After completing these studies, he married Lucille Masters and shortly thereafter started his career in the service department at John E. McCluen Company in Cookeville.

In 1961, he established what is now known as Carwile Mechanical Contractors, Inc. Ezra remained semi-active at the company until his death on September 10, 2005. Ezra was always a strong supporter of education and Tennessee Tech University. He often hired TTU students in the summer months to work at the company with the understanding that they would return to school in the fall. He knew from his own experiences overcoming the odds that an education, coupled with perseverance and hard work, could create success for anyone.

Ezra was proud that so many of his family had graduated from TTU, including his son, Gary W. Carwile; daughter, Janice Carwile Hodum; son-in-law, Dr. Robert L. Hodum; grandchildren, Rachel Carwile McDonald, Josh Carwile, and Erin Carwile; grandson-in-law, Brandon McDonald; and grand daughter-in-law, Emily Heinrich Carwile. Also through the years, Carwile has employed many TTU graduates who contributed to the success of the company.

The family and employees of Carwile Mechanical Contractors, Inc. are happy and blessed to be able to establish this endowment to help carry on the academic excellence at TTU for the young men and women of today who will be the leaders of tomorrow. It is their hope that the heritage of integrity, kindness, and perseverance left by Ezra H. Carwile will encourage them to succeed.

The Christopher Gribble Memorial Scholarship honors the memory and life of Christopher Gribble, an alumnus of Tennessee Technological University with a degree in Mechanical Engineering. The scholarship celebrates the life of a successful Mechanical Engineer, son, brother, uncle, and friend. From an early age, Chris showed talent for reading books and precision building, which gave him his passion for design in engineering. It is the hope of the Gribble family that Chris's passion and spirit live on through this scholarship, which is intended to encourage and enable students to pursue excellence in Mechanical Engineering. This scholarship commemorates Chris's commitment to education, and to assist others with their educational endeavors in Mechanical Engineering. This endowment is established by Chris's parents, Gary and Teresa Gribble, and Chris's sister and brother-in-law, Jason and Misty Joyner.

The Rose and O.C. Stewart Scholarship in Music was created at Tennessee Technological University by Dr. and Mrs. O.C. Stewart. Dr. Stewart served as the Dean of Extended Services and Mrs. Rose Stewart as an instructor in the Department of Music for many years.

This scholarship was created by Arthur J. Langlois in memory of his beloved wife, Marion B. Hood Langlois. Marion attended the University of Wisconsin and Tennessee Technological University and she and Art were long time residents of Cookeville, Tennessee. Marion had a life-long interest in history and she and Art funded a history scholarship while residing in Cookeville. This endowment will continue that scholarship to help deserving students pursue a degree in history.

Marion was born February 3, 1920 in Racine, Wisconsin. She was the daughter of the late James Coy and Georgia Smith Hood. Her family includes her husband Arthur J. Langlois; two sons, Geoffrey J. Langlois and wife Valerie, and Christopher J. Langlois and wife Jean; two daughters, Elizabeth A. Dobles and husband Thomas, and Harriet H. Langlois and husband Louis King; two brothers, William E. Hood and Edward W. Hood; one sister, Helen Tiedemann; and nine grandchildren.

When Arthur J. Langlois passed away in 2009, his name was added to the scholarship endowment.

Lawrence Edward (“Ed”) Wilson was born in Clarksville, Tennessee on May 15, 1944. He passed away on August 30, 2020.  He received his Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering in 1966 and was commissioned as a 2nd Lieutenant in the Army while attending the University. After serving as an officer in the Army Corps of Engineers, he joined Geologic Associates in 1969 in Franklin, Tennessee. He later became President and CEO of the firm, and later known as the Engineering Design and Geosciences Group (the EDGe Group).

Well known for setting the bar high for professional standards and work ethic, he served in leadership positions in two esteemed organizations, the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) and the Geoprofessional Business Association, formerly the Association of Soil and Foundation Engineers (ASFE), serving as ASFE/GBA president from 1989 to 1990. Ed was a guest lecturer at Tennessee Tech, Vanderbilt, and University of South Carolina where he enjoyed sharing his wisdom with young engineering students. The University’s College of Engineering honored him with its Engineer of Distinction award in 1989.

Ed was passionate about finding the best people with whom to work and mentoring them. He was especially proud of the fact that many of his colleagues went on to form and/or lead successful businesses and do great things in service to others.

According to GBA past-president Jay Martin, “Shortly after Ed hired me in 1983, I was at an ASCE meeting where he introduced me to Dan Barge, co-founder of Barge Waggoner Sumner and Cannon. Dan said, with that deep southern drawl, ‘so Jay is working for you all now.’ Ed quickly corrected Dan, ‘no Jay doesn’t work for us, he works with us.’ That philosophy and attitude spoke volumes to me.”

GBA past-president Ken Darnell shared, “Ed hired me in 1978 and then sent me to run the company’s Knoxville office in 1979. Ed often spent the night at our house when he came to Knoxville for business. Our middle daughter, Christy, would wait outside his bedroom door to jump out and ‘sprise the Wilson’. He always acted genuinely startled. Christy is the introvert of our three girls, but as usual, Ed brought out the best in people. One of Ed's best talents was choosing quality people. I sat in on many interviews, and I never remember one when he didn't say, ‘we take our work very seriously, but not ourselves.’ He was a very humble and generous man who will be greatly missed!”

Ed had a lifelong love for the great outdoors and was a conscientious and highly skilled hunter and fisherman. One of his last great achievements was qualifying for a Montana State hunting and fishing guide license. He loved teaching his family and people from around the world how to fly fish and hunt. His greatest joy was fly fishing a mountain stream with his grandsons, which he did for much of the month of June 2020.

Ed and his wife, Mary Lou, were married for 54 years and have one daughter and two grandsons.

George A. Dailey ('72 Biology) and Nancy Staats Dailey ('73 Biology) are establishing this endowment in appreciation for the education and experience they received from the Biology Department at Tennessee Technological University.

Linda Sue Swisher had a passion for lifelong learning and had a significant impact on her students and others she inspired.She graduated from the University with highest honors in secondary education in English and history; and taught English as a second language for 15 years at the University.Linda was active as the president of the TTU Women's Faculty Club and president of the Cookeville Tree Board. She enjoyed taking care of her family and grandchildren, teaching her students, and working in her flower gardens. Her husband and life companion of 54 years, George M. Swisher, taught mechanical and electrical engineering courses at the University for many years and eventually retired as Tech's Dean of the College of Engineering. Their daughter, Stacey Swisher Harnetty, graduated with her mechanical engineering bachelor's degree from the University and completed her ME master's degree at Virginia Tech. This scholarship is in honor of Linda's unselfish dedication to her students, her commitment to advancing education, and her relentless encouragement to share cultures, experiences, and language.

Dr. George M. Swisher joined the Tennessee Technological University Mechanical Engineering (ME) faculty in 1973 as Associate Professor in the systems engineering teaching and research areas. He was promoted to Professor of ME and Associate Dean of the College of Engineering in 1979. After serving nine years as Associate Dean, in February of 1989, he was appointed Dean of the College of Engineering. Dr. Swisher served as President of the Engineering Development Foundation from 1991 to 1999. During his term as President, the foundation doubled the number of scholarships awarded. George Swisher has been the recipient of several awards and honors. He is listed in the Who's Who in Computer Education and Research and the American Men and Women of Science. He has received the Phi Kappa Phi Faculty Award and the Pi Tau Sigma Outstanding ME Faculty Award. Dr. Swisher is a member of numerous societies; the American Society of University Professors, the American Society of Engineering Education, and Tau Beta Pi. He participated in many public service organizations such as the Cookeville Breakfast Rotary and the Tennessee Board of Engineers and Architects. Daughter, Stacey E. Swisher Harnetty, completed her BS in mechanical engineering at TTU in 1989 and her MSME at Virginia Tech in 1991. During her senior year, Stacey served as Vice President of the student section of the ASME and also as President of the Engineering Joint Council. Dr. Swisher is now Dean of Engineering at Southern Illinois University Carbondale.

The Edwin C. Reeves Scholarship Endowment was established by Gerald Sheridan and Catherine Sheridan in memory of Catherine's father.

Jesse Filoteo made the world a more beautiful place. His artwork graces local businesses, logos, websites and billboards. He was also an advocate for the environment, passionately fighting against pollution and climate change. For Jesse, art and conservation weren’t simply a career or hobby - they were a way of life. Tragically, Jesse passed away in a hiking accident near Snowden Mountain peak in Colorado on July 4, 2024. He was just 25 years old.

Jesse was graduated from Cookeville High School in 2016, and he was graduated magna cum laude from the University in 2021 with a bachelor’s degree in fine arts and a concentration in graphic design. He worked as a graphic designer for two and a half years before leaving the comfort of a design studio to reconnect with nature and find joy in the great outdoors with the Appalachian Conservation Corps (ACC). ACC is a program of Conservation Legacy, a nationwide network of conservation service organizations working to improve the world through healthy land, air and water; thriving people; and resilient communities.
In spring of 2024, while serving with the ACC in Virginia, Jesse was part of a small backcountry crew responsible for improving and replacing signs on the South Pedlar All-Terrain Vehicle trail system. This ensured visitors could navigate the trail system and enjoy nature safely. In May of 2024, Jesse transitioned to Colorado where he served with the Southwest Conservation Corps (SCC) based in Durango. He was a certified sawyer (chainsaw operator) and part of a crew working on the Wood-for-Life program. He saw an opportunity to help indigenous communities by repurposing timber destined for burning into firewood, ensuring families could stay warm during harsh winters.

His change in career path was not surprising to Jesse’s family; he had long been an avid outdoorsman and found a love for hiking and camping through the Scouting America. Jesse’s ultimate goal in joining the SCC was to become a forest firefighter and put himself on reserve. Then, he planned to earn a master’s degree in fine arts at the University so he could later teach graphic design at the University as well.

Jesse’s talent touched numerous areas throughout the Upper Cumberland. In 2022, The Silver Fern Gallery in Cookeville featured his solo exhibition, The Impracticality of Youth. And his art helped market local businesses as well. Through an internship with the Tennessee Tech Center for Rural Innovation (TCRI), Jesse designed the logo and branding for Happy Trails Brewing Company in Sparta and Jackson County’s “Explore JCTN” tourism initiative, artwork for the online business Turdcules, and the website for 20 Degrees Frozen Yogurt Lounge in Cookeville. In 2020, the Fentress County Chamber of Commerce and Executive’s Office reached out to TCRI to find a student who could design an official county seal, and TCRI connected them with Jesse. Jesse set out to create a seal that the county would not only be proud of but that would also capture the spirit of Fentress County with a recognizable design.

Jesse received a scholarship to attend the University, and the Filoteo family has established the Jesse Filoteo Memorial Scholarship to give back and help future generations of gifted artists.

A 1957 Accounting graduate of Tennessee Technological University, Grady P. Williams established the Grady P. Williams Scholarship Endowment to recognize the significant contribution that his Accounting degree has had on his life and to help future students realize their dreams. Mr. Williams has been a devoted member of the College of Business Administration Foundation Board of Trustees since 1976.

Mr. Williams has enjoyed a distinguished career with Hazlett, Lewis, and Bieter CPA firm in Chattanooga as a Senior Partner of the firm. He is the recipient of the Louis Johnson Outstanding Business Alumnus Award. He has held an extensive number of leadership positions in professional and civic organizations.

Mr. Williams passed away in March 2022. 

Established by Graphic Packaging International, Inc. (NYSE: GPK), this scholarship is awarded to outstanding students of Tennessee Technological University that are interested in pursuing a career in the paper and packaging industry.

Jackson County High School has had a tradition of presenting a special award to assist a deserving student with his/her first year at Tennessee Technological University. Mr. Greg Harris, a former recipient of the award, is carrying on the tradition by establishing the Harris Oil Incorporated Scholarship. Mr. Harris has upgraded the traditional award to a scholarship.

Parents, friends, and members of the Upper Cumberland District of the Boy Scouts of America created the Eagle Scout Scholarship Endowment in 1992 to provide funds for scholarships for students who have achieved the Eagle Scout rank. Several upperclassmen Eagle Scout Scholarships have been named in memory of individuals who made significant contributions to the Boy Scouts of America.

H.S. and Vivian Barnes have supported Tennessee Tech for many years. They are both college graduates and have a strong appreciation for education and academic excellence.

Vivian Barnes graduated from Tennessee Tech in 1949 with a degree in accounting. She received the W. A. Howard Medal for Academic Excellence. She married H.S. Barnes in 1950 and worked with him in his law practice for over 40 years as an accountant.

H.S. Barnes attended Tennessee Tech for three years from 1936 to 1939. He transferred to Peabody College and graduated in 1940. After graduation he taught school for a short period before entering the Army. He completed his army service in 1945 and entered the University of Tennessee Law School. He later transferred to Vanderbilt Law School and graduated in 1948. He received the Founders Medal upon graduation from Vanderbilt.

Mr. and Mrs. Barnes have three children. Amy Barnes graduated from the University of Tennessee and is a Certified Public Accountant working in Knoxville, Tennessee. Joel Barnes attended Tennessee Tech and works for American Airlines. Thomas Barnes attended the University of Tennessee and is a secretary with a charitable foundation.

This scholarship was created in honor of Ralph Lexie and Edith Carlock Freeman, parents of Donald W. Freeman, Harold D. Freeman and Patricia Apple. Both Ralph Lexie and Edith Carlock Freeman are now deceased.

Harriet Jordan Wright was born in Fentress County, Tennessee in 1935.  After her graduation from Alvin C. York Institute, she attended the University of Tennessee in Knoxville and earned a bachelor's degree in Home Economics in 1956. Moving to Cookeville in 1958, she became a Home Economics teacher and Guidance Counselor at Putnam County High School, where she spent her entire career of over 30 years.  In 1971, she earned a master's degree from Tennessee Tech in Educational Counseling and Guidance.  As a long-time resident of Cookeville, she was very active in numerous community programs to benefit those who were in need.  Many of her family members have also graduated from Tennessee Tech, including both of her children, two grandsons, a daughter-in-law, and two granddaughters-in-law.

Edward H. Hooper moved to Cookeville, Tennessee, on October 1, 1938, to become director of Whitson Funeral Home. He later established Hooper and Huddleston Funeral Home with Earl Huddleston. From 1938 until his death on May 26, 2000, he was one of Cookeville's most dedicated civic workers. Before the establishment of the Cookeville Chamber of Commerce, he functioned as one, reaching out for any and every opportunity to bring jobs to Putnam County and later was the first president of the Cookeville/Putnam County Chamber of Commerce. He also served as a charter member and president of the Cookeville Jaycees and was a member of the Lions, Rotary, and the Elks Clubs.

In addition, Ed Hooper was a devoted friend of Tennessee Technological University dedicating countless volunteer hours to supporting TTU. For many years, he worked with President Derryberry in the state legislature as an unpaid lobbyist to secure appropriations for the university. He helped raise funds for the athletic program by taking volunteer contributions throughout the community and was a member of the College of Business Administration Foundation 1988 Capital Campaign fund-raising committee which raised over $3.2 million. Mr. Hooper was a member of the Board of Trustees for the Nursing, Athletic, Humanities and Sciences, and Business Foundations.

Mr. Hooper and his family and friends established this scholarship endowment shortly before his death to honor his lasting contribution to Cookeville and particularly Tennessee Tech.

This endowment was created by Harry and Joan Stonecipher in memory of their son, Terry Martin Stonecipher. The loss of a child is a tragedy almost too great to comprehend. While the grief may subside somewhat with time, the loss will be felt forever. It is the hope of Harry and Joan that this endowment will be used to help the College of Arts and Sciences influence young men and women to challenge life and achieve success.

This endowment was established with funds previously held in Jackson Bank and Trust as the Clarence Phillips Medical Scholarship Fund. The purpose of the fund was to promote and to provide financial assistant to worthy medical students and to encourage them to return to practice medicine in Jackson County.

This award was created by the Mookherjee family, Dr. Harsha Mookherjee, a Sociology professor at Tennessee Technological University, his wife, Ira, and their daughter, Paramita, a TTU alumna.

A. Hayden Brown, Jr. (1946-2014) grew up on a farm run by his Ma and Pa Flatt (Vella Rodgers and Carlie B. Flatt) in Cookeville, Tennessee. They produced beef cattle, tobacco, small grain, hay and, occasionally, hogs. He developed a strong work ethic at an early age. At age 5, he drove the tractor during hay season for his Pa Flatt and other farmers, including Major Shipley. He graduated from Cookeville Central High School in 1964 where he was active in FFA and served as vice-president and president of the club. Hayden went on to major in Animal Husbandry at Tennessee Tech and received a Bachelor of Science degree in 1968. His love for agriculture was solidified through the teaching and interactions with Clyde Hyder and Bobby Parham.

While at Tech, Hayden spent many hours working on the Tech farm. The story goes that the Human Resource Director for the UT Agriculture Extension Service, a tall lady in a skirt, rode the tractor with him through the Tech farm during his interview for an assistant extension agent position in Fentress County, Tennessee. (This was just vintage Hayden Brown!) He got the job and worked from 1968-1974 in the position. Hayden developed a strong program in beef cattle agriculture during his years in Jamestown, working one on one with many 4-Hers and farmers. In 1973, he took a county exhibit consisting of more than 75 steers, heifers, and lambs, along with more than 25 youth exhibitors to the State Livestock Exposition in Nashville, Tennessee. His program received the Kroger Award for Exhibitors of the most Choice steers at the Tennessee Finished Cattle Show. As part of his program, he sold animals that were produced by the 4- Hers to Fentress County businesses. The animals were then marketed in the meat cases as being raised by Judy Turner, Joe Potter, and Mark Howard, etc. Thus, before it was a popular trend, 4-Hers learned not only how to pick and raise an animal, but how to show and make a profit in their 4-H project.

In 1974, Hayden moved to Knoxville to finish a Master of Science in Animal Science and then pursued a Ph.D. in Animal Breeding at the University of Tennessee. His doctoral dissertation evaluated techniques used in estimating phenotypic, genetic and environmental trends and interactions in beef cattle. His dissertation was affectionately dedicated to his grandfather Carlie B. Flatt, the best cattleman he ever knew.

Dr. Brown joined the faculty at the University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, in September of 1977, where he served as Assistant Professor, Associate Professor and Full Professor in the Department of Animal Sciences. During his 36 years with the university, he was recognized for the excellence of his teaching and research in the area of quantitative inheritance and especially for his contributions to genetic improvement of economically important traits in Arkansas livestock. A video of his reflections of his career in Animal Genetics is available to view at: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4E3rCNXtOSM&feature=plcp.

Throughout his research and teaching career Hayden Brown secured more than one million dollars in grants, published 106 peer-reviewed journal articles and over 200 peer-reviewed abstracts. Dr. Brown was inducted into the American Cattle Breeders Hall of Fame in a ceremony that included being driven out on the floor of the Houston Livestock Show in a limousine! He served as advisor and President of the National Block and Bridle Club and advised both the Alpha Gamma Rho and Farm House Fraternities over the years. He was a caring teacher with a strong commitment to helping students achieve their goals both in and out of the classroom. Spring break at the University of Arkansas often involved taking students on a four day whirlwind trip to several states to visit farms or on trips to livestock shows. Rarely did he miss a chance to go with a cattleman out on the farm to discuss cattle and directions that might improve production. He advised 250 undergraduate students, 33 Master of Science students and 12 Doctoral students. For more than 30 years, he continued to mentor 4-H and FFA students and raise funds for livestock premiums at the county, district and State Fairs in Arkansas. His wish was to establish this scholarship at Tennessee Tech in honor of his Grandfather and Grandmother Flatt who set him on his path of working hard, studying hard and using science to improve cattle and students.

He died May 26, 2014, in Fayetteville, Arkansas, after a brief illness. He is survived by his wife, Dr. Helen Gann Brown, and one daughter, Ashley Elizabeth Brown, who teaches school in Springdale, Arkansas; his mother Jean Brown, Cookeville, Tennessee; two sisters, Connie McBride and husband Flave of Sparta, Tennessee; Mena Williams and husband Eugene of Baxter, Tennessee; one brother, David A. Brown and wife Angela of Cookeville, Tennessee; nephews Mark Brown McBride, Tyler Brown, Clay Brady, Levi Whittaker; and nieces Sonya Bowman, Dava Whittaker, Hannah Bowman, and Madison Brown. He was buried in Crestlawn Cemetery in Cookeville near the site of the farm he grew up on. His love and spirit live in the hearts of family and those he mentored. His knowledge thrives in the progeny of cattle across the country.

Mrs. Helen Frances High Smith received her undergraduate degree from Tennessee Technological University in Home Economics and her graduate degree and certification in physical therapy from Duke University. Mrs. Smith did not work in the Human Ecology field but felt that her degree adequately prepared her for her role in life. This scholarship is to help TTU students achieve their goal to obtain a college degree.

The James M. and Edith Henderson Endowed Scholarship was established to honor the many contributions that Dean Emeritus and Mrs. James M. Henderson made to Tennessee Technological University and to Cookeville. James Manson Henderson, born May 28, 1896, in Yorkville, TN, received a BS degree in Civil Engineering from the University of Tennessee -Knoxville in 1922 and an MSCE in 1924.

In 1924, the Hendersons moved to Cookeville where he became head of a fledgling engineering department at Tennessee Polytechnic Institute (now Tennessee Technological University). He launched engineering at Tech with two faculty members and a borrowed surveyor's transit. He served the university for 42 years, becoming the first dean of engineering in 1949, a position which he held until 1961.

Dean Henderson conceived and initiated a unique annual-rotation cooperative education program in 1959. His model has since been copied by other institutions. After retiring as dean, he coordinated the co-op program until leaving university service at age 70 in 1966.

A registered professional engineer, Dean Henderson was a life member of the American Society for
Engineering Education. He was a member of the National Society of Professional Engineers, the
Tennessee Education Association, and the National Education Association.

The Hendersons were well known for their civic and church activities. Dean Henderson was a charter member of the committee which established Cookeville's first youth center in 1944. He was a counselor to the Boy Scouts of America. Active in the First United Methodist Church, he served as general superintendent of the church's schools, director of religious education and chairman of the church building committee. He was a member of the Cookeville Rotary Club and served as its president. He was a veteran of World War I, an Excellent High Priest in the Cookeville Masonic Lodge and a member of the American Legion. Mrs. Henderson was a homemaker, a member of the TTU Faculty Women's Club, the Book Lover's Club, and served as the director of the Youth Center. As a member of the First United Methodist Church, she was active in the Chapel Class, the United Methodist Women, Senior Neighbors, and was honored as Queen Mother in 1946 by the United Methodist Men.

The Hendersons had three children - Helen Henderson Keeney, H. LeRoy Henderson, and James M. (Matt) Henderson, Jr., ten grandchildren and twenty-three great grandchildren.

The Hendersons were gentle giants. Dean Henderson was a quiet man - a man whose influence will be felt for decades. Engineering at Tennessee Tech is what it is today because of the foundation laid by J.M. (Jim) Henderson, and Mom Henderson was a helpful friendly person and always available to solve student problems in the outer room of the Dean's Office.

Dean Henderson passed away February 20, 1980, and Edith Henderson on May 3, 1995.

Monika and Henry Bowman have been long-time Cookeville residents. Monika obtained her undergraduate degree from the University of Tennessee at Knoxville and her Master’s degree from the University. She was employed at Cookeville Regional Medical Center for over 35 years until she retired. Henry obtained his undergraduate education at Austin Peay State University and his Master’s degree at the University of Tennessee at Knoxville. He was employed as a staff analyst at Upper Cumberland Development District for over 40 years. Both have attended and enjoyed TTU basketball games, especially the women’s teams. They believe that the University enhances the benefits of living in Cookeville in many ways. Both have profited from state-assisted higher education and are endowing scholarships in order to help promote educational opportunities for students in the future.

Since the creation of this scholarship endowment, Monika has passed.

Former students and Christian Friends have established this endowment in honor of Professors Dr. Wallace S. Prescott and James Seay Brown. Their leadership, faith, example, and inspiration for hard work and academic excellence are legendary. Both have been active members of First Baptist Church, Cookeville for most of their lives. Prescott sang in the choir for several years. Brown was named Deacon Emeritus in September 2008 after serving as a Deacon since the fall of 1954. Prescott and Brown have served in many other capacities at First Baptist, including Sunday School Teachers, over many years and held leadership roles in planning, designing, and building the new church.

The TTU legacies of Wallace S. Prescott and James Seay Brown were honored at a reception at Tennessee Tech University on Thursday, October 5, 2000.

Prescott, who graduated from TTU in 1946 and joined the engineering faculty that same year, served Tennessee Tech for nearly 40 years as an educator, scholar, public servant and administrator. From 1962 to 1983, he was TTU's Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs and two years after retiring, he came back to Tennessee Tech to serve as Interim President from 1985 to 1987.

Prescott received the Distinguished Alumnus Award of Tennessee Tech in 1977, the Outstanding Civilian Service Award of the U.S. Army in 1983. He was selected as a Tennessee Tech Engineer of Distinction in 1984.

For more than 38 years, Brown, a 1941 alumnus of TTU, served Tennessee Tech and the engineering profession as an instructor, a public servant and administrator. He joined TTU's engineering faculty in 1941, and then served as chairman of the Mechanical Engineering Department from 1950 to 1961. In 1961, he was named Dean of Engineering, a position he held until 1979.

As Dean of Engineering, Brown led the College of Engineering in receiving accreditation for its engineering curriculum and he also initiated the engineering graduate programs at both the master's and doctoral levels. He was selected as the Outstanding Professional Engineer for Middle Tennessee in 1972 and as a Tennessee Tech Engineer of Distinction in 1981.

The James A. and Roberta Hill Carlen Endowed Memorial Scholarship has been established as a tribute to Mr. James A. Carlen and his wife, Roberta Hill Carlen, by the Carlen family and friends. During his lifetime, Mr. Carlen served on many of the University’s foundation boards, was a member of the Board of Directors of the Athletic Foundation and the Engineering Development Foundation at the time of his death, and had been a member of the President’s Club from the date of its founding. His love for and devotion to the University was manifest throughout his lifetime. Mrs. Carlen had served as a member-at-large on the Development Council and was a member of the Tech Women’s Organization and the Symphony Guild.

Established in 1992, this scholarship is funded by contributions from faculty members and awarded to a student majoring in history.

The Service Center recognizes one TTU student and one TTU faculty member who have best demonstrated exceptional service learning and service leadership through the university. The Distinguished Service Learning Award is sponsored by Home Instead Senior Care and is given each spring.

The Honors Program Fifth Year Student Scholarship was created to provide scholarships for Honors Program students who take five years to complete their undergraduate study at Tennessee Tech. The scholarship was renamed in January 2007 in honor of Dr. Kelly Hood's eighteen years of behind-the-scenes service to the Honors Program and is now known as the W.K. Hood Honors Program Fifth Year Student Scholarship.

The Christine Burks Scholarship Endowment was established at Tennessee Tech University to serve the youth of the Upper Cumberland area of Middle Tennessee who have excellent aptitude to pursue university studies leading to a baccalaureate degree. Horace Burks, founder of Fixtur-World of Cookeville, and Christine Burks, his mother, endowed the Fixtur-World Scholarship. Horace is a 1965 graduate of TTU and a member of the College of Business Board of Trustees.

This scholarship is administered by the Agricultural Foundation. The Agricultural Foundation for Tennessee Tech focuses its resources on ways to enhance the education and college experience for students enrolled in any discipline within the School of Agriculture. Founded in 1972, the Foundation: • Brings together former students and graduates of Tennessee Tech with leaders in business, education and state and local governments to contribute and raise financial resources to support students; • Expands the awareness of the Tennessee Tech School of Agriculture with business and government leaders; • And, Recognizes the accomplishments of the School of Agriculture's Finest. The Foundation awards almost $25,000 each year in scholarships and awards to Tennessee Tech students. The Foundation also provides volunteers and financial resources to support many activities of the School of Agriculture such as the Academic Bowl, recognition for State and National FFA Officers, a Student Recognition Banquet, and Student Recruitment Efforts.

Hubert and Shirley Chaffin established this endowment within the College of Education to provide financial aid to a selected student pursuing his or her education degree and teaching certification.

Hubert and Shirley Chaffin and Family have always seen the need to support and honor current and future educators. As notably recognized, the family worked in the early 1980’s with several community-drives to bring awareness to the importance of excellent teachers and educators. One of the more notable achievements was getting the mayor to sign a proclamation to take a teacher to lunch once a year. In this program, several hundred kids would organize and venue these events.

Hugh W. Denny was born in a log house in the Rock Springs community in western Putnam County near the Smith County line.  He received his elementary education in a one-teacher rural school.  He attended Baxter Seminary High School for four years where he was a member of the Debate Team.  He graduated in 1956 as Valedictorian.  

Being within commuting distance of Tennessee Tech, he attended the University where he majored in Electrical Engineering (EE).  Hugh was a four-year member of Tech’s Debate Team and was selected to be Cadet Colonel of Tech’s ROTC unit his senior year. At the suggestion of one of his Tech EE Professors, he applied for Graduate School and was accepted at Georgia Tech.

Shortly after acceptance, Hugh was offered a position of Graduate Research Assistant at Georgia Tech’s Engineering Experiment Station (EES). (EES later changed its name to the Georgia Tech Research Institute [GTRI]). Hugh worked at GTRI for 35 years and was active in the Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC) Society of the Institute of Electrical and Electronic Engineers (IEEE), serving as Technical Program Chair of their International Symposium and, subsequently, chaired the International Symposium.  He was elected a Fellow of the IEEE in 1995.

Through his research projects and IEEE EMC activities, Hugh visited several states, Europe, and India, all because of the educational privileges available to an “old country boy” through Tennessee Tech.

The Don Nichols/I.C. Thomasson Scholarship was named after Don Nichols, a 1949 graduate from Tennessee Tech University with a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering. In 1982, Don was awarded the College of Engineering's Engineer of Distinction Award which recognizes exceptional TTU engineering alumni.

(From a TTU press release published Feb. 4, 2013)

Founded in 1957, Institutional Wholesale (IWC) is a family owned and operated foodservice distribution company supplying a broad line of food and food-related products to the middle Tennessee and southern Kentucky areas. What was once a business comprised of one salesman, one deliveryman, and one truck has evolved into a corporation with approximately 180 employees, 40 vehicles, a 55-county distribution area, and a data processing system that monitors multimillion dollar sales.

IWC’s product line includes a broad range of food categories, janitorial items, and a complete line of chemicals for dishwashing and laundry. The Company services restaurants, schools, hotels and convenience stores. IWC is a member of the Frosty Acres buying group.

When Jimmy Mackie left a cost accounting job in 1957 in Columbia, Tennessee, his supervisor told him he was making a mistake and “wouldn’t amount to anything.”

A year later, Mackie had finished his second degree at Tennessee Tech when Joe Gibson approached his father, Danie, and asked if he knew of anyone who might be interested in buying half the Institutional Wholesale Company business. Danie said, “Well, my son needs a job.” Gibson delivered groceries from a distributor in Knoxville to schools, hospitals, and restaurants in Putnam County.

“I didn’t know a thing in the world about selling groceries,” Mackie said, “and I had made up my mind I didn’t want to depend on selling to make a living.”

Mackie had business management and accounting degrees from Tennessee Tech, and he had served two years in the U.S. Army, but he approached the idea of buying a business with some uncertainty. The move would mean incurring some debt and taking a risk.

He took Gibson’s ledgers to Louis Johnson, dean of the TTU College of Business, and asked his advice. “He said, ‘It looks like you’ve got a good thing, but it looks like a lot of hard work,’” Mackie said. “I wasn’t afraid of hard work, and I Had a family to support.”

With over 55 years at the helm of IWC, Macie has done every job in the business, from cleaning the toilets and driving the delivery truck to managing operations and, true to his career goal, accounting. He and his brother, Leroy, were co-owners for nearly three decades.

His sons, Bob and John, are part owners in the business now; both are TTU alumni. IWC employees many TTU alumni, and Mackie said several employees have worked with him for 30 to 40 years.

Having lived in Cookeville all but about two years of his life, Mackie calls himself a “local yokel.”

Supporting community causes and Tennessee Tech is a happy obligation for him. The Mackies support TTU athletics, cancer research, Boy Scouts, and many other organizations. He and some locals who meet for breakfast at the Mini Burger raised funds to buy a large truck for TTU Athletics to haul football equipment to away games. IWC Cash & Carry is the presenting sponsor of The Watson Brown Show, a weekly call-in show for Golden Eagle football fans.

We don't do it to promote our business, I don't do it to get my name on a building, Mackie said. I do it to help Tennessee Tech, and we do it for the community.

Mackie has served on the TTU College of Business Foundation since 1982 and has helped raise funds to renovate classrooms in Johnson Hall, named for his early career adviser, Louis Johnson.

Mackie is a 1951 graduate of Cookeville High School and the son of Danie and Edna Mackie. He and Shirley (Hargrove) Mackie have been married since 1954. They recently bought a '56 Studebaker Hawk and are enjoying membership in the 1956 Studebaker Golden Hawk owners' club. Being a part of the Frosty Acres Brand purchasing co-op, they have had the opportunity to travel to several parts of the world. The Mackies are proud to count TTU alumni among their friends.

It's one relationship after another, people I got acquainted with through Tech, Mackie said. It's all because of Tech I have these wonderful relationships.

Walter and Elizabeth Peugeot saw the benefits of music and music education in the lives of all members of their family. Mr. and Mrs. Peugeot’s wish would have been to make a career in music possible for deserving students who might not be able to pursue a degree in music education due to financial limitations. The Peugeots, longtime residents of Johnson City, Tennessee, were married for 53 years before the death of Mr. Peugeot in 1992 and Mrs. Peugeot in 2001. It would have been their hope that this scholarship help the recipients(s) to obtain a music education degree and engage in a productive and satisfying music career and in turn share their good fortune with others who may be in need.

Carroll Viera Appreciation Endowed Scholarship

Adedeji (Deji) and Iswat Badiru are delighted to endow a scholarship to honor Dr. Carroll Viera of the English Department at Tennessee Technological University. When Deji started at Tennessee Tech in January 1976, Dr. Viera (Then Dr. Carroll Miller) was a crucial early mentor to Deji as he began to study in the United States. When he was placed in her English course for international students, Dr. Viera saw that Deji's skills were good enough that he could meet the demands of a regular English class with American students. After completing that first course, Deji took all five of his remaining English courses in the regular sections. The challenge of these regular sections helped him to improve his English language skills far beyond what he could have accomplished in the international sections. Dr. Viera's perceptive guidance is a good example of how a teacher identifies potential in a student and helps the student to reach that potential. Deji thanks Carroll a great deal for the early encouragement that led to a solid foundation for his further academic progress, and for Carroll's mentoring example that Deji now strives to emulate with his own students. Later that year, when Deji's wife, Iswat, arrived from Nigeria to join him, Carroll helped them tremendously through the International Host Family program initiating a family relationship that has lasted for over thirty years and continues to grow stronger. Throughout their studies at Tennessee Tech, she played a direct role in their academic and personal progress, and in their children's welfare. Carroll regularly sent the children birthday and Christmas presents when they were young. She has been a mentor, academic advisor, confidant, and friend. She even provided financial support to them at critical times. She introduced the Badirus to American social life by hosting frequent dinners at her home at her own expense. By this act, she helped to bridge a cultural gap. Over the years, she continues to be a friend and a source of inspiration. Adedeji and Iswat Badiru want to thank her and wish to honor her through this endowment of the Carroll Viera Appreciation Scholarship.

Sid and Pat Gilbreath Appreciation Endowed Scholarship

Dr. Sid Gilbreath was a teacher, academic mentor, and professional role model in the Industrial Engineering Department at Tennessee Technological University. He was a teacher not only in the classroom, but also outside of the classroom. Adedeji (Deji) Badiru’s first encounter wil Sid was in 1977, when Deji declared a major in Industrial Engineering, at the conclusion of his freshman year in the Basic Engineering program. Dr. Gilbreath was the department head at that time. He was tough, yet nurturing administrator in the department. In his administrative role, he had access to Deji’s academic records, which he judged to be impressive and worthy of commendation. He invited Deji to his office and commented that he had the potential to become a first-rate industrial engineer. He was going to see to it that the department provided a supportive environment for Deji to reach his academic goals. Frankly, at that time, Deji did not understand why he singled him out for such a profound conversation with a sophomore. He was to later learn that retention of good students is just as important as recruiting them. Sid excelled at both recruiting and retaining students. Sid was not only a professional role model for Deji while he was an industrial engineering student, but also during his career, as a teacher, writer, researcher, and practitioner of the profession. If Sid and Deji had not had that single conversation, he might have changed his major to other enticing disciplines at that time. Sid probably never realized how far that mentoring conversation encouraged Deji professionally. In the Industrial Engineering Department, Sid quickly became Deji’s fatherly figure. With Sid’s sense of humor, he often cajoled students to higher levels of performance. His professional experiences outside the university often created amusing stories, which students and faculty looked forward to hearing. As Badiru continued his studies at Tennessee Tech and his subsequent Ph.D. program at the University of Central Florida, he encountered several personal, financial, and academic challenges. But Sid was always there to encourage, counsel, and rescue him at crucial times. In a letter of encouragement he sent to Deji at the University of Central Florida on September 27, 1982, he wrote, “It hurts me to know that you are so discouraged with your present circumstances. I remember well the discomfort accompanying strained finances and unfamiliar surroundings when I first started the Ph.D. program at Georgia Tech.” Sid and Pat went to offer help to get Deji and his family over the financial hurdle that they were facing at that time. Without that helping hand, Deji might not have been able to complete the Ph.D. program. For this, Deji and Iswat, his wife, continue to be thankful to the Gilbreaths for their acts of love and kindness. In subsequent conversations, Sid would not accept any thanks or repayment from Deji. Instead, he said, “Deji, someday, you will see others who are in need of help. You go ahead and help them. By doing that, you would be thanking me.” Adedeji and Iswat have continued to help others as a way of expressing their thanks to their benefactors. Adedeji and Iswat Badiru want to show their gratitude to Sid and Pat Gilbreath and wish to honor them with the Sid and Pat Gilbreath Appreciation Scholarship Endowment.

Adedeji and Isiwatu Badiru Endowed International Student Scholarship

Adedeji (TTU BS, MS, ME: 1979, 1981, 1982) and Isiwatu (TTU 1983) are forever grateful for the opportunity to study as international students at the University in the 1970s and 1980s. The educational experience enjoyed at Tech and the caring and supportive engagement of the campus community make it imperative that we give back to the University at our “widow’s mite” level so that other international students can enjoy what we enjoyed at Tech.

The depth and breadth of education that we received at Tech could not have happened anywhere else. Tech paved the way for our personal growth, career advancement, and professional accomplishments. The Tech faculty who figuratively adopted us as a family during our studies have continued to be our close family friends and supporters. During our undergraduate studies, Tech’s Cafeteria and the Physical Plant gave us on-campus jobs. This helped us not only to boost our financial resources, but also got us started on the employment record for USA Social Security later on. Tech is unique, valued, and greatly admired in this regard.

This appreciated legacy of Tech needs to be retained and sustained for generations to come. Our older son, who was born while we lived on the Tech campus in 1977, is now a senior engineer at General Motors in Michigan. He still considers Tennessee Tech’s “Tech Village” as his hometown.

This scholarship has been established as a tribute to John and Evelyne Stites in recognition of their contributions to the success and early growth of J & S Construction Company, Inc. and their invaluable contributions to the families of their children and grandchildren. This scholarship is in further recognition of contributions to the construction industry by the College of Engineering at Tennessee Technological University. The College has provided knowledgeable and competent engineers sensitive to field problems encountered during the construction phase of any project.

In July of 2005, Mr. J. Michael Winchester made a multi-faceted $100,000 pledge to support Tennessee Tech's History Department ($50,000), Baseball Team ($25,000), and Athletics Program ($25,000). Mr. Winchester's long-standing support of Tennessee Tech academics and athletics continues to make a valuable difference in the student experience at TTU. In an effort to continue increasing the Winchester History Lecture Series Endowment, originated in 1998, and ensure funding on an annual basis, Mr. Winchester's commitment to History will supplement the existing Endowment with an additional $30,000, the remaining $20,000 of the pledge will support the Winchester History Lecture Series and the Student/Faculty Travel and Scholarship Fund, while the Endowment balance is increasing. Mr. Winchester plans to complete the $100,000 pledge with five $20,000 payments over a period of five years or less.

J. Roy Wauford, Jr. established this scholarship endowment at Tennessee Technological University in appreciation for the excellent education provided while attending school in Cookeville, Tennessee. Roy attended Tennessee Tech for two years before transferring to Vanderbilt University to complete his engineering education, while his wife, Lois Ann, graduated in 1952 with a degree in Health and Physical Education.

Their son, Joseph Roy Wauford III, graduated in Civil Engineering in 1978 from Tennessee Tech.

Since 1958 J.R. Wauford & Company, Consulting Engineers, Inc. has been assisting municipalities, utility districts and industry in all facets of water and wastewater engineering. Mr. Wauford’s company has provided an annual scholarship in Engineering at Tennessee Tech since 1976. This endowment will assure this legacy remains an integral part of providing financial assistance for a deserving student at Tennessee Tech.

The William Benton and Fanalou Whitson Carlen Scholarship was established as a tribute to Mr. William Benton Carlen, Sr. and his wife, Fanalou Whitson Carlen by their children William B. Carlen, Jr., Frances Carlen Long, and Walter W. Carlen. Mr. William Benton Carlen attended the University when it was first founded as Dixie College. He earned letters in four sports while in attendance. Mrs. Fanalou Whitson Carlen, the daughter of Jere Whitson, one of the Founders of Dixie College, attended the institution as a high school student. This scholarship is a tribute to their service to Tennessee Technological University which was manifest throughout their lifetime.

The D. M. and Mary Freese Lee Memorial Scholarship in Engineering has been established as a tribute to Mr. D. M. Lee and Mrs. Mary Freese Lee. Mr. Lee served on the Tennessee Polytechnic Institute faculty in Engineering during its formative years, and was instrumental in the development of the College of Engineering. Mr. and Mrs. Lee helped build the quality for which the College of Engineering and Tennessee Technological University are known.

Joan Barber, deceased August 12, 1995, was the mother of Jane Theresa Barber and the mother-in-law of Jack M. Armistead, Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences at Tennessee Technological University. A citizen of England, she frequently visited the United States, bringing a rich cultural heritage to everyone she met. This scholarship remembers Joan’s relationship with Tennesseans by supporting students who wish to study English culture and continue her efforts to disseminate it.

The Zimmerman family has been blessed with many members who have careers within the field of medicine. In 2016, the Zimmermans suffered the loss of one of their youngest family members, Wendy Lee Galloway. Wendy served in many capacities, but her love and specialty for more than 20 years was in wounded home healthcare and hospice. In 2018, another nurse in the family, Maria Carmella Zimmerman, passed away. Maria served as a nurse in Connecticut, California, Oregon, and Mississippi in hospitals as well as in a doctor's office and a college infirmary. Wendy and Maria are two of three nurses in their immediate family. The other nurse is Wendy's mother, Barbara Kearney. In memory of Wendy and Maria, the Zimmermans are honored to help a nursing student at Tennessee Technological University with financial needs.

This endowment was established with funds previously held in Jackson Bank and Trust as the Clarence Phillips Medical Scholarship Fund. The purpose of the fund was to promote and to provide financial assistant to worthy medical students and to encourage them to return to practice medicine in Jackson County.

James and Alice Kennon are establishing this scholarship because they believe that early childhood education is very important. They also firmly believe that if a child can be taught to enjoy learning at an early age, that child will grow up to always enjoy learning and value education.

This scholarship was created in honor of Ralph Lexie and Edith Carlock Freeman, parents of Donald W. Freeman, Harold D. Freeman and Patricia Apple. Both Ralph Lexie and Edith Carlock Freeman are now deceased.

The Quill Evan Cope Scholarship was established in 1993 by Mrs. Mary Kate Cope in memory of her husband, Quill Evan Cope, a 1933 History graduate of Tennessee Tech.

This scholarship was established by Mr. James D. Young in honor of his wife, Jane DuBois Young and her passion and dedication to teaching.

Marilyn Hollingsworth was raised in White County, Tennessee. She graduated from Tennessee Technological University with a major in Elementary Education in 1964 and taught in Hampton, Virginia, Jacksonville, Florida, and White and Putnam Counties, Tennessee. While attending Tennessee Tech, Marilyn participated in many activities, she was on the cover of the college calendar and she was the 1964 Football Homecoming Queen. Marilyn met and married James Morton. They have two children, David and Stephen, and one grandchild, Abby Claire.

Dr. James L. Snelgrove and Alice Medley Snelgrove established the C. P. Snelgrove Scholarship and the Mozelle Spain Medley Scholarship. C.P. Snelgrove (1908-2005) served as head librarian at the Tennessee Tech University library for more than 38 years, from 1936 until his retirement in 1974, and he is credited with establishing one of the premiere institutions of book knowledge in the Mid-South. During his tenure, the library's collection grew from 12,000 to more than 600,000 volumes. Born in Lexington County, South Carolina, Mr. Snelgrove was the first of eight children. He grew up on his family’s farm and, owing to his mother’s untimely death, remained at home between his junior and senior years in high school so that he could help care for his seven younger siblings. Following his return to school, he was named valedictorian of his high school class, after which he entered the University of South Carolina (from which he was graduated in 1932), the first in his family to attend college. While earning a degree in history, he worked his way through college as a student assistant at the university library. That experience plus his love of reading led him to earn a degree in library science in 1935 at George Peabody College for Teachers (now part of Vanderbilt University) in Nashville. He first worked as a high school librarian in Florida before being hired as Tennessee Tech’s first full-time librarian, beginning work on January 1, 1936 (at a salary of $1500 for the nine-month school year). At first, Mr. Snelgrove was the library's only employee. However, as the collection grew, he instituted a student assistant program paying 20 cents an hour, following the model that had provided him employment during his student days. Through the years that followed, hundreds of students worked at the library to earn money to help defray the cost of attending Tech, just as he had at Carolina. In addition to his responsibilities as head librarian, Mr. Snelgrove taught courses in library science, training many teachers to serve as librarians at public schools in Middle Tennessee. One of his other duties was to line up faculty and staff for commencement processionals. The year of his retirement, since his task had prevented his participation in previous commencements, he was given the honor of leading the procession. Outside of his professional life, Mr. Snelgrove was an avid gardener of vegetables, fruits, and flowers; a devoted member of the First Presbyterian Church (serving as elder and treasurer); a member and Paul Harris Fellow of the Cookeville Rotary Club; a member of the Tech Garden Club and the Cookeville/Tech Symphony Guild; an organizer and first president of the Tech Emeriti Faculty Club. He also volunteered for the Tennessee Library Association, the Tennessee Folklore Society, the American Cancer Society, and the American Red Cross. For his service to Tech and the community, he received the Tech Alumni Association’s 1997 Outstanding Service award. In addition, he loved listening to music and reading and enjoyed the company of family and friends. Interestingly, Mr. Snelgrove always preferred to use his initials rather than his given names. He disliked his first name and abhorred his middle name. This secrecy gave rise to an informal organization of student assistants known as the “We Know Mr. Snelgrove’s Middle Name Club.” Now, students who receive this award can also know that his full name is Clarence Predew Snelgrove. Mr. Snelgrove's son and daughter-in-law, Dr. James L. Snelgrove and Alice Temple Medley Snelgrove (both class of 1964), initiated the C.P. Snelgrove Scholarship to honor Mr. Snelgrove's long service to the University as head librarian and to recognize the joy he derived from his association with library student assistants through the years. Mozelle Spain Medley was born in Kosciusko, Mississippi, on October 10, 1909. Educated at Kosciusko grammar and high schools, she attended Mississippi State College for Women (now known as Mississippi College), Sophie Newcomb College (now part of Tulane University), and Hillman College, studying music and voice at all three institutions. In 1950, she was graduated from Tennessee Tech University with a B.S. degree in secondary education—curriculum and instruction. She then attended Vanderbilt University’s George Peabody College for Teachers, from which she received a M.A. degree in 1952. Mrs. Medley came from a family of learned people and professionals who placed great value on education. Her own mother, a widow with four children, was known for helping young people attain a high school education by supporting them and allowing them to live in her home until they could complete school. Mrs. Medley continued this tradition by helping her underprivileged students obtain clothing and medical care. A scholarship recipient herself, Mrs. Medley was an outstanding student whose high grades earned her respect and membership in academic honorary societies including Phi Kappa Phi, Delta Kappa Gamma, and Delta Kappa Pi. While completing her master’s degree, she began her career at Tech Campus School, where she taught fourth grade for 19 years. At the same time, she occasionally taught various classes at Tennessee Tech, and in 1969, she became the director of the Upper Cumberland’s Right to Read Program until her retirement in 1974. In all these capacities she influenced the lives of literally hundreds of children and adults, some of whom have contributed to this scholarship fund. Former students describe how she made learning exciting and how she combined various disciplines to integrate learning. Her students relate that they were frequently happily engaged in producing plays and performances for which they made the sets (and often the costumes) and learned the songs, dances, and dialogue. She used such productions to teach a variety of subjects, from math to reading to geography. Some of her productions included a three-ring circus that involved every student at the school and the fourth grade’s annual operetta Amahl and the Night Visitor. An avid student of Cookeville, Putnam County, and Tennessee history, Mrs. Medley for years took her summer school class to historic sites in Middle Tennessee. Many parents were eager for their children to experience her Tennessee history unit and its attendant trip to Nashville’s historic locales. An accomplished musician who sang solos at weddings and church services, particularly in her early years, Mrs. Medley played the piano and daily accompanied her students’ singing. Included in the repertoire she taught her students were American song classics as well as Southern folk melodies and songs, for which she would sometimes accompany them on the autoharp. As for her personal life, Mrs. Medley was widowed at a young age and returned to school to complete her education so that she could support her family. Her husband, Ralph Pedigo Medley, attended Tennessee Tech when it was known as Dixie College. Her son, Ralph Adron Medley, M.D., attended Tennessee Tech, and her daughter, Alice Medley Snelgrove, M.A., is a Tech graduate. Mrs. Medley lived in Cookeville from 1949 until her death in 2003. An ardent admirer and avid supporter of Tennessee Tech and especially its music performances and women’s basketball team, Mrs. Medley would be honored that in her name others will be helped to achieve their educational goals. Money for the scholarship fund was donated in her memory by neighbors, friends, and family members.

Jim Self is an award-winning Los Angeles-based freelance and studio musician, a veteran of thousands of motion pictures, television shows and records, and a tuba soloist on many prominent movies. His tuba was the Voice of the Mothership in Close Encounters of the Third Kind. For many years, he was first tuba for John Williams, James Horner, James Newton Howard, John Debney, and others. Jim has recorded with hundreds of artists including Plácido Domingo, Mel Tormé, Frank Sinatra, Barbra Streisand and Don Ellis. He is principle Tuba/Cimbasso with the Pacific and Pasadena Symphonies, the Hollywood Bowl Orchestra and the Los Angeles Opera Orchestra. Early in his career, Jim was in the U.S. Army Band in Washington, D.C., and was a tuba professor at the University of Tennessee. Jim holds a D.M.A. from the University of Southern California's Thornton School of Music where he is an adjunct professor of tuba and chamber music. His compositions and arrangements include works for solo tuba, brass quintet, other brass, string and woodwind chamber music, wind band and orchestra. Jim has produced fourteen solo jazz and classical recording projects that feature jazz greats like Gary Foster, Pete Christlieb, Francisco Torres, Ron Kalina and Warren Luening. Many feature his own unique instrument, the FLUBA (picture a tuba-sized Flugel Horn). Jim's latest “Floating in Winter” is a duo tuba/guitar CD with the great John Chiodini. Jim's music and recordings are available from www.jimself.com. Jamie Self is a retired Personnel Officer for the Chancellor of the University of California, Los Angeles. She was born in Modesto, California and lived for several years in Cairo, Egypt, where she administered the Fulbright program. Jamie is also an amateur violinist and plays in various Los Angeles area orchestras. She enjoys supporting Jim's many projects, being a grandmother, and traveling the world with Jim. This endowment is given to honor the Selfs' dear friend, R. Winston Morris, for his long career as a teacher, performer, scholar, and major force in the Tuba/Euphonium World.

James M. and S. Gail Henderson established the Blanche E. Hay Nursing Scholarship Endowment because of the love, affection, and respect they have for Ms. Hay. Ms. Hay spent more than 40 years of her life caring for and serving others which is the soul of the nursing profession. The Hendersons are privileged to establish this scholarship and provide a perpetual memorial to honor her life's work.

Dr. J. T. Moore graduated from Tennessee Polytechnic Institute in 1943 with a degree in engineering. After serving in WWII as a pilot in the US Army Air Transport Command he received his medical degree from the University of Tennessee in Memphis. Dr. Moore practiced medicine for 48 years in the Upper Cumberland. During that time he encouraged and assisted numerous people to continue their education and to go to nursing school. He was instrumental in establishing the School of Nursing at Tennessee Tech and served on the School of Nursing Foundation for many years. He was a great advocate for the nursing profession. Dr. Moore's wife, Jean, announced the establishment of this scholarship endowment at the dedication of the J. T. Moore, Jr., M. D. Education Center of the Cookeville Regional Medical Center on October 29, 2000.

As a member of the Chemistry faculty at Northeast State Community College, DR. Cleveland has had numerous occasions to interact with the Tennessee Tech chemistry faculty. The Tech faculty has generously shared ideas and approaches toward the improvement of undergraduate education in chemistry, and Dr. Cleveland has always been very appreciative of the openness and willing ness of the Tech chemistry faculty to assist him in his efforts. Dr. Cleveland is also very strongly supportive of the Tech chemistry faculty's educational philosophy which puts the education and success of the students at the top of their list of priorities. Dr. and Mrs. James P. Cleveland therefore with to support chemical education and training at the Tennessee Technological University. To make this support a reality they have chosen to initiate through their estate plan a chemistry scholarship/fellowship endowment which will be sued to provide financial assistance to students who are pursuing an undergraduate or graduate degree in one of the recognized branches of chemistry.

Lowell Smith attended Tennessee Tech University from 1958 to 1962, majored in Business Administration, and was part of the Tennessee Tech football team that won four straight OVC Championships. Lowell was a lifelong supporter of the University throughout the years, both financially and through his volunteer efforts. His wife Brenda, daughter Shannon, and son Jim all graduated from Tennessee Tech, and now Lowell's grandchildren are attending as well. The Smith family wanted to financially help deserving Cookeville High School graduates who will be enrolling at Tennessee Tech in the College of Business or Whitson-Hester School of Nursing.

Established in 1989 in honor of James W. Arnett, Sr. by his son, James W. Arnett, Jr., to benefit the College of Business.

Established in honor of Joe L. Evins to benefit a Political Science/Social Science major.

Morris Stamps is a native of Putnam County, Tennessee. He was a Boy Scout leader, a serviceman in the United States armed forces in the Korean War, and a businessman before attending Tennessee Polytechnic Institute, currently Tennessee Tech. He graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in industrial arts in 1958 and a Master of Arts degree in educational administration and supervision in 1965. His career in education spanned 38 years and included teaching and administration in various positions at the elementary, middle school, and high school levels in Tennessee and Ohio. After retiring, he continues to be active in several church and community groups. The Morris Stamps Scholarship has been established by his daughters to commemorate his 90th birthday. Family and friends have contributed to the scholarship.

Robert (Bob) G. Campbell, Sr. was born on July 31, 1939, on a farm in Claiborne County, TN. After graduating from Claiborne County High School, he attended Tennessee Technological University to pursue a Civil Engineering degree. After graduation in 1963, he served as Regional Location Engineer at the Tennessee Department of Transportation for over 12 years. During that time he was awarded his Master of Science degree in Civil Engineering at the University of Tennessee Knoxville in 1967. In 1972, he founded Volunteer Engineering in Knoxville, which later became Robert G. Campbell and Associates. Bob served as Chairman of the Tennessee State Architects & Engineers Board, President of the American Council of Engineering Companies of Tennessee, and various other leadership positions. He was active in the Halls community, serving as youth sports team coach, and in 1983 received the Halls Man of the Year Award. Bob was an active member of Norwood Baptist Church where he served as a teacher, treasurer and deacon. He also served as Treasurer of the Knox County Baptist Association, as well as a member of the Tennessee Baptist Convention State Executive Board. Bob passed away on March 25, 2010. His wife, Jane, and their children Robert II (TTU Class of 1987), Carolyn and Paula, established this scholarship in honor of him to support future civil engineering students.

Dr. W. Powell Hutcherson, a 1940 TTU graduate in Chemistry, established this scholarship in 1976 in memory of his late mother, Mrs. Willie E. Maxwell Hutcherson. The scholarship benefits students from the Hamilton County area.

Sherlie Hill West was born in 1927 on the family farm in Forbus, Tennessee, the youngest of seven boys. As of the formation of this document, the house where he was born and grew up in still stands, and the farm remains in his family.

He entered high school in 1941, attending Alvin C. York Agricultural Institute in Jamestown, Tennessee. He excelled in school and was graduated Valedictorian of his class. It was during these years that he developed his lifelong love of learning.

Knowing he wanted to attend college, he began driving a school bus the summer after graduation to earn money to go to Tennessee Tech. Sherlie’s father loaned him enough money to start college that fall, and was very proud of him. He was the only one in his family to go to college.

His original choice of major was auto mechanics, but after taking some biology courses he knew he wanted to be a scientist. Being raised on a farm, a natural choice was agriculture. He married Leeta Crouch after graduation in 1949. She was raised only ten miles from him in Moodyville, Tennessee, and they had known of each other since childhood. She was also a student at Tennessee Tech. She earned her Master’s degree in nutrition from the University of Kentucky. Sherlie continued his education, earning a Master’s degree from the University of Kentucky and a Doctorate degree from the University of Illinois (Champlain/Urbana) in 1957.

Sherlie and Leeta moved to Gainesville, Florida following Sherlie’s graduation from the University of Illinois. He took a research position with the University of Florida. He served the University of Florida in several departments and roles, including the Assistant Dean of the Florida Experiment Station and as a professor in the Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (IFAS). His greatest love was teaching. He had many graduate students who now live all over the world. Most of his academic career was spent in the Agronomy Department where he conducted research on seeds. He traveled the world extensively with his improved seed technology which has helped feed many people in developing countries. He retired in 1998 after 40 years. He continued to go to the office every day for the sheer joy of it.

He and his wife spent as much time as possible at their home on the farm in Forbus, which he always considered home. He was recognized as a Distinguished Agricultural Alumnus by the Agricultural Foundation for Tennessee Tech, and was a financial supporter for most of his life.

This scholarship was established in 1998 to help academically qualified students from his high school alma mater of Alvin C. York Institute, and his wife’s alma mater of Pickett County High School, attend Tennessee Tech. They were married for 62 years when they both passed away in 2011. His hope was to instill in young students the importance of education and to encourage them to work hard and dream big. His legacy lives on through his only child, Jane West O’Neal, a graduate of the University of Florida, and his grandchildren, who are currently enrolled in college (2016)

The Porter and Ruby B. Hayes Scholarship was established in memory of Porter and Ruby B. Hayes by Janelle Hayes Wall and husband, Thomas K. Wall, and Phillip R. Hayes and wife, Linda Hudgens Hayes, to honor their parents' lifelong dedication and service to White County and especially the Peeled Chestnut Community of White and Dekalb County, Tennessee. Porter attended Tennessee Tech for a brief period before assuming control of the family general merchandise business which served the area for over 100 years. Ruby was a teacher in the White County School system for over 34 years, after graduation from Tennessee Tech and continuing studies at Middle Tennessee State.

This endowment was established by Mrs. James R. Headrick and Dr. William L. Headrick to commemorate and honor the lifetime accomplishments of Dr. James R. Headrick, Biology 1950, and Dr. William L. Headrick, Biology 1943. The brothers were outstanding students who became very successful physicians and loyal supporters of Tennessee Technological University. Dr. James Headrick died August 11, 1995 and Dr. William Headrick died September 3, 1997. Mrs. James R. Headrick (Jan) passed away in January 2023. Her children now receive updates about the scholarship reach year. 

Janet Scott Freeman and her husband were lucky enough to receive four-year scholarships to private Christian colleges. They both worked hard and studied in high school to graduate with honors and qualify for scholarships. They both graduated from college with a Bachelor of Science degree. She went on to graduate school to study in the Masters of Science Program and he went on to graduate from medical school.

They know how important education is, for both a high school and college education(?). They had the opportunity to volunteer as chaperones for an educational trip for Jackson Christian School students. It was about a two-week trip to Paris, France, Germany, Austria and Switzerland where they toured many museums and historical sites plus a few castles. They were with about 2,025 students, about four teachers and six parents. The Freemans were at the same hotel on the same buses and tours, and all ate together for their meals. During this trip they noticed the students were patient, kind, courteous, well spoken, well mannered and incredibly smart and they acted like one big family. The students treated each other with respect, there were no fights or problems with any of the students during the entire trip. They all stayed together, they all helped each other, they were social with other people, and they all dressed in a conservative attire. They were wonderful examples of what a student could be if given the right circumstances.

The Freemans never had children of their own, and feel they were not gifted with that blessing, so they decided to give scholarships to exceptional students to help one student at a time for their four-year college term. The four-year award allows the student to focus on his/her education and degree without worrying about the burden of financial hardship. The scholarship can be used for anything the student needs like books, room and board, food; or anything necessary for them to live and study while in college.

The preference for chemical engineering is to honor Janet’s father, who died of cancer in 2011.

The Freemans believe Jackson Christian School students are an asset to their community. They will be the ones to make changes for the better. Jackson Christian School is a small independent private Christian school founded in 1976. It’s accredited by Cognia and the National Christian School Association. It provides a quality value-oriented education in a Christian environment. It’s a diverse school with a variety of students from many backgrounds. The school encourages students and faculty to represent Christian based conduct in their daily lives.

The student to faculty ratio is low and provides the opportunity for a more enhanced student to teacher relationship. The education programs at the Jackson Christian School include the basics like math, science, chemistry and literature but also provide a variety of different programs like drama, band, music and athletics like baseball, basketball or football. The school provides so many more opportunities in additional programs which allow student to excel in many areas. Since more than 50% of the faculty have masters’ degrees, the students have exceptional instructors.

Students who graduate from Jackson Christian School are well educated and prepared for college. They are kind and well mannered. They care about their community, their families, and the world. They want to make a difference in this world.

A scholarship fund in memory of the late Jane Mott has been established at Tennessee Tech.

The fund was established at the request of the Mott family, many of whose members have had close ties to Tech for several years. Mrs. Mott, who died in 1978 after an extended illness, was an honors graduate of Tech's business program. Mrs. Mott was a retired certified public accountant in Brentwood. Her husband, John Mott, Jr., is a Tech alumnus, as are her children, Mrs. Janet Wright and John R. III.

Mrs. Mott enrolled at Tech in 1940, but she and John married the next year, and it was 1966 before she completed her B.S. degree, after her daughter had already graduated. She received several awards, including the Governor's Distinguished Service Award in 1974 and the Executive Recognition Award from Women Executives International in 1973.

Mrs. Mott worked in Cookeville before moving to Brentwood near Nashville in 1969 to become senior accountant with a Brentwood firm. In 1971 she entered into an accounting firm partnership which later became affiliated with a national concern. In 1974 Mrs. Mott opened her own public accounting firm in Brentwood.

All of us, but especially Jane, have long taken a very active interest in Tennessee Tech, said her husband. Jane has helped and encouraged many young people who have gone to Tech and who have worked toward CPA's, and I believe she would be pleased with the scholarship fund.

Dr. Wayne Pegram was a 1959 graduate of Tennessee Tech University who devoted his 45-year career to teaching music, primarily in the state of Tennessee. While earning his masters degree, he was visual designer and drill instructor for the Pride of the Southland Band at the University of Tennessee-Knoxville and served as director of the UT-K varsity band. While earning his doctoral degree at Northern Colorado University, he directed jazz ensembles, coordinated the electronic music lab, and taught woodwinds.

During his 35 years at Tennessee Tech, he served as Director of Bands and Director of the Music Education program. While serving as Director of Bands at Tennessee Tech, his marching, jazz, and concert bands were invited to perform at major regional and national events. His Symphonic Band and Wind Ensemble were asked to record more than 30 albums for regional, national, and international distribution.

Throughout his career at TIU, his passion for teaching and his expectation of nothing less than excellence from his students earned him induction into the Hall of Fame for both the Tennessee Music Educators Association and the Tennessee Bandmasters Association. At the TBA awards presentation, TMEA Past President Stephen Coleman attested to the major influence Pegram had on him as well as so many former students.

Although he passed away in January, 2011, he will be remembered for his contributions to the community, especially in the realm of the arts where his passion as a band director influenced and inspired many of his students over the years. Dr. Pegram's former students became some of the most respected band directors in the region and the country.

Sue Haste Malone, whose late father, Col. Maurice Haste, was also former chairman of the music program and who founded the Tennessee Tech Troubadours jazz ensemble, provided the majority of the funding necessary to establish this endowment in memory of Dr. Pegram.

Two generous individuals established this scholarship in memory of their son, Richard P. Gearing. Richard passed away in 1986 at the age of 23. The donors established the scholarship to remember Richard and because of their respect for TTU. The donors wish to share the following quote with recipients of the scholarship: Ignorance is the curse of God; knowledge is the wing wherewith we fly to heaven. --William Shakespeare  Frank Newbell passed away in January 2022. His wife, Jean, receives updates about the scholarship.

Amy Davidson, a 2005 graduate of the Grier School, an all-girls high school in Tyrone, Pennsylvania, enrolled at Tennessee Tech and studied at the University's Appalachian Center for Craft in Smithville. She worked in the office and gallery at the Craft Center while pursuing her Fine Arts degree in Fibers. Amy had a soft spot for children and enjoyed helping people. She hoped to someday use crafts as a way to work with disabled children. Amy loved weaving, knitting, crocheting, reading books, watching movies, and listening to music. She studied the cello at an early age, and later the violin and piano. In high school, Amy enjoyed lighting theatrical and dance productions. Amy was also well traveled. In 1996, Amy spent two weeks in Nuevo Laredo, Mexico with her mother, doing volunteer work with her church. In 2004, she toured Spain, Portugal, and Morocco with her high school Spanish class. That summer, Amy toured Australia and New Zealand with her father and members of the Hahn family. Upon Amy's passing while a student at Tennessee Tech, her family and friends wish to establish an endowment in honor and in memory of her.

Bobby and Jean Davis have followed the development of the Whitson-Hester School of Nursing since the first undergraduate class was admitted in the Fall of 1980. The school now also offers graduate nursing degrees and post-graduate certificates, and they have enjoyed watching the school grow and progress to its current level.

Both Bobby and Jean have served on the Whitson-Hester School of Nursing Development Council. They both had careers in healthcare – Jean in nursing and Bobby in pharmacy. They were both also active in city government, and each of them has served as Mayor of Cookeville. Bobby and Jean are establishing this endowment as a way to thank the University, and they know how important nurses are to the communities they will serve.

The Jeanette Travis Foundation is a family foundation established by the will of the late Jeanette Travis. Mrs. Travis was a long-time nurse who worked much of her career at St. Thomas Hospital in Nashville. Upon her passing in 2010, Mrs. Travis, through her will, established the foundation to support area nursing and health-related programs.

Maude E. Reist was born March 20, 1916, in Hancock County, Tennessee. The daughter of Luther and Rosa Collins, she had 3 brothers and 2 sisters. At an early age, Maude and her family moved to Big Stone Gap, Virginia, where she lived most of her life.

On February 5, 1949, Maude married John Reist. After the unexpected and early death of her husband, Maude was left to care for and financially support her 3 children as a single parent. Through this hardship in her life, she became known for her hard work ethics and devotion to her family.

In 1975, Maude returned to Tennessee to be closer to her family and made her home in Hawkins County. Throughout her remaining years, Maude would become known as “Mamaw” not only to her grandchildren but to others close to her.

Throughout Maude's life, she continued to be an independent and strong woman. To her children and grandchildren, she was the model of family values. Her love and faith in God will continue to live through them. This scholarship was created in her memory.

This scholarship endowment was established in memory of Dr. B. F. Jones. Dr. Jones became a Professor in the History Department at Tennessee Technological University in 1964, and was appointed Chairman of the History Department in 1972.

The Finlin, Williams, and Friends Scholarship is created to give back to the institution that has been critical in the development of so many of their shared family and friends.  The university has provided support for the education, growth, and excellence of their community and this scholarship is one small way they can share in what they have been so graced to enjoy.

In the Williams and Finlin families alone the list of graduates and attendees includes Dr. Robert H. Williams (class of 1965), Anne Compton Williams (1964), Leslie Cade Williams Jr (1975), Jennifer Williams Finlin (1992), Laura Williams Radcliffe (1992), Michael P. Finlin (1991), and current attendee John Van Dusen.  The list of friends is too long to include.

The Williams family has deep roots in the Cookeville community.  Robert and Cade Williams grew up in Cookeville and their parents Leslie Cade Sr. and Ruby Evelyn Williams were the proprietors of the flower shop on the Cookeville Square.  Mrs. Williams enjoyed decorating the Walton House annually at Christmas for many years.  Both Robert (Army) and Cade (Navy) served our country during international conflicts.

Mike Finlin, class of 1991 Bachelor of Science in Business Administration and Jennifer Finlin, class of 1992 Bachelor of Science in Nursing, created Network Solutions Group LLC (NSG) in the fall of 1999.  NSG is consistently listed as one of Nashville’s top Technology Services Companies and its success is what allows them to create this scholarship and provide opportunity for a group of deserving and hard-working students to grow and succeed.

Jessica Anne Kelley graduated from Tennessee Tech in May 2018 with her degree in psychology with a focus in children's counseling. She was a member of the Psychology Honor Society Fraternity Psi Chi. She was preparing to begin her master's program in counseling and psychology when she passed away due to complications related to the treatment she received for Leukemia. She was very active at the University and in the Psychology Department. Jessica's advisor, Dr. Matthew Zagumny, was instrumental in her educational experience. She played the clarinet in the TTU Marching Band and served as treasurer of the TTU Swing Dance Club. Born and raised in Oceanside, California, she attended Vista High School and graduated with honors. She played the clarinet in the Vista Marching Band and won multiple state tournaments. She enjoyed live theater, including acting in plays, building sets, costuming, and lighting. She was head counselor at Premiere for Kids, where she taught children the art of theatre. She moved to Sweetwater, Tennessee in 2016, and transferred to the University to complete her degree. In her spare time she volunteered at an animal shelter because of her love for dogs and, more especially, llamas. Jessica's parents, Ronald and Jennifer, established this scholarship in memory of their daughter to help other students complete their psychology degree

This endowment is established in honor of Douglas and Dinah House's 50th year of marriage by their children: Mrs. Jenny Lee House Maffett, Mr. Patrick Dosson House, Mrs. Martha House Brasek, and Ms. Mary Beth House. During this time they have built a legacy that will continue long after they leave. Their travels and adventures have taken them around the world. Dinah and Douglas have raised four beautiful, successful children based on Christian values, a sense of adventure, continual learning and love. The lives of their children and grandchildren will be a constant memorial to them. By teaching life is to be lived, hard work pays off, an education will expand one's life and abilities to give to humanity, they have given the greatest gift of all to everyone who has crossed their paths: love and genuine interest.

Instrumental in expanding the early foundational infrastructure for telephone communication, Douglas and Dinah moved their family throughout the geographical south within the United States. Forging friendships while taking time to explore regional areas of interest continue to be valued by the couple.

This scholarship is offered by the children of Dinah and Douglas House in gratefulness, admiration and with the determination of walking in the world in the way they have shown us.

The Dinah and Douglas House Scholarship is designed for upper division nursing students who are at a financial disadvantage.

In the early 1970s, a group of young men within the Jaycees organization in Cookeville, Tennessee took on the tremendous task of securing a federal grant to build a 100 unit apartment complex to assist low and middle income families living in Cookeville. The group formed a non-profit corporation as a separate entity on August 25, 1972, called Willow Park Apartments, Inc., to construct and manage the complex. In order to assure continued maintenance of the project for the long term, the corporation (Willow Park Apartments, Inc.) sold the apartment complex during the mid 1980's and a new corporation, Willow Park Partners, Inc., was formed to manage the remaining interest in the Project. Proceeds from the sale were held in the trust and managed by the Cookeville Jaycees Academic Trust Foundation for the purpose of assisting young people attending Tennessee Technological University through scholarships. It is the desire of the Cookeville Jaycees Academic Trust Foundation to continue this commitment in helping Putnam County high school graduates through this gift. The Cookeville Jaycees Academic Trust Foundation consists of Dr. Max Atnip, Mr. Larry B. Garrett, Mr. Jim Hicks, Mr. Scott Lytal, Mr. Clarence Smith, and Mr. Donnie Westbrooks (who passed away in 2017).

In honor of the life and art of Anderson Bailey, his family and friends have created this endowed scholarship to bring clay and ceramic students to the Appalachian Center for Craft at Tennessee Tech University. The Center for Craft held a special place in Anderson's heart. It was there where he found his aesthetic, his community, and the love of his life.

Barbara (BS in Business Administration, majoring in Accounting, class of 1983) and Jessie Brooks are the parents of Shelby Brooks. Shelby is a spring 2020 graduate from the Tennessee Technological University (TTU) School of Music, earning her Bachelor’s Degree in Music with a major in Music Education - Instrumental. Her family thoroughly enjoyed Shelby’s time at TTU by attending all home football games and concerts and seeing the results of the work put in by students and professors preparing these great performances. Due to the time commitment students experience during their two semesters of residency, their desire is to lessen the financial needs of a hard-working student in their last year of school.  

Jewel Tabor, a 1970 Tennessee Tech graduate, wishes to establish this scholarship endowment to honor her teacher, mentor and friend Essie Dee Gragg.  Essie’s teaching career extended from 1950s into the 1970's and covered all grade levels from elementary through high school. Essie’s passion for her profession was demonstrated in many ways.  In high school, she sponsored Future Teachers of America chapters.  She encouraged chapter members to partner with teachers so as to acquaint themselves with various responsibilities and tasks of the teaching profession that might not be obvious from their classroom experiences.

In gratitude for the emotional and financial support provided her by Essie as a first generation college student, this scholarship endowment is established to allow other such students to benefit from higher education who might not otherwise be able to do so.

Drs. Jim and Barbara Fleming both attended Tech as undergrads in biology. They then earned their Master’s degrees at Auburn University, and their doctorates at Cornell. Afterwards, Jim began his career as a wildlife biologist and science administrator. Barbara completed a post-doctoral fellowship at the National Institute of Health and then attended medical school and an internal medicine residency in the medical systems at University of Maryland and Johns Hopkins. Both Barbara and Jim very much appreciate the important role nursing plays in health care due to their interactions with the health care system and, for Barbara, in her career in internal medicine. The Whitson-Hester School of Nursing has a tradition of producing nurses with excellent clinical skills and a sincere commitment to the community. Barbara and Jim are honored to be able to contribute to that excellence and support the School of Nursing and Tech’s wonderful students.

In a testament of their support of Tennessee Tech and its agriculture and education programs, W. Doyle and Melford Stone Smith have established this scholarship endowment to help incoming TTU freshmen from Dekalb County earn their education. Mr. Smith is a 1950 agriculture graduate who spent much of his career in the agrichemical business. The Smiths reside in Dekalb County, Tennessee.

James R. Lawson, 1966 civil engineering graduate of Tennessee Tech, and his wife, Brenda F. Lawson, have expressed their desires to support his alma mater through an estate gift for the Department of Civil Engineering.

Harriet D. Westmoreland earned her Registered Nurse degree in September 1956 from Baptist Hospital in Memphis, Tennessee.  She worked for 12 years at the University of Tennessee at Martin as Director of Student Health Services.  After her move to Cookeville, she spent 15 years in public health serving as Director of the Communicable Disease Program for the Upper Cumberland Region.  She served for many years on the Whitson-Hester School of Nursing Development Council and received the School’s Florence Nightingale Award (2007) and the Distinguished Service Award (2019).

Dr. Robert L. Sublett, Tennessee Tech emeritus faculty and former chairperson of the Chemistry Department, and his wife Charlotte M. Sublett, long-time RN at Cookeville Regional Medical Center, have expressed their desires to assist the School of Nursing and its students by endowing a scholarship in Charlotte's name, the Charlotte M. Sublett Nursing Scholarship. The Robert L. Sublett Chemistry Scholarship was established in honor of Dr. Robert Louis Sublett, Sr., by his family, friends, and alumni. Dr. Sublett taught for 31 years on the Tennessee Technological University campus, and for the last 15 years of that tenure was chairman of the Department of Chemistry and advisor for the Health Pre-Professional Program. This endowment was established at the time of his retirement from the university.

Cissy Perry graduated from Tennessee Tech in 1965 with a Bachelor's Degree in Elementary Education and later earned her Master of Arts in Education from Western Kentucky University. She married Tennessee Tech grad Jim Chambers, became an Army wife for 17 years, relocated seven times throughout the U.S. and raised two sons. She was respected as an educator and later in her career as a librarian. She was best known for her effervescent caring personality and for her warm, sharp wit. Cissy stayed in touch with a member of the freshmen women from her TPI dorm and their families. She was there nearly every year when the ladies met from their geographically dispersed homes. This Endowment was established by her husband in loving memory of their more than 44 years together.

Jim and Barbara Greeson are career educators, each receiving three degrees from Tennessee Tech. Jim attained a B.S. Health and Physical Education, 1968; M.A. Health and Physical Education, 1971; Ed.S Educational Administration and Supervision, 1976. Barbara attained a B.S. Elementary Education, 1977; M.A. Reading, 1980; Ed.S Educational Leadership, 1997. Both have enjoyed rewarding careers in public education and have almost seventy years of educational experience between them.

The Jim and Barbara Greeson Scholarship Endowment is established to recognize and assist future educators in achieving their professional goals. The Greesons wish to help students showing promise, dedication, and pride in the education profession through their experiences at Tennessee Tech.

Rachel Nicole Perry was born on Mother's Day, May 8, 1983, in Cookeville, Tennessee to Jim and Beverly Perry. She went home to meet her God suddenly on Saturday morning, Dec. 13, 2008, as the result of injuries sustained in an automobile accident. Miss Perry had been scheduled to receive her B.S. degree from Tennessee Tech's commencement ceremonies later
that morning.

Rachel was a 2001 honors graduate of Cookeville High School, where she lettered in track and field and swimming, winning state honors, and was a member of the Tennessee All-State Chorus. She also was in Interact and the Beta Club. While at Tennessee Tech,  she was a varsity athlete in track and field, and she continued to mentor shot put and discus throwers at Cookeville High. She was a  music performance major for three years, participated in TTU operas and sang at many Tennessee Tech graduations and basketball  games, funerals, weddings and Lions Club Christmas luncheons. Rachel loved all kinds of vocal music, especially hymns, spiritual a capella music and classical opera. Most especially she loved to sing at church. She was a member of Mortar Board and Mu Phi Epsilon  music honor societies. She also performed in plays such as Shakespeare in the Park. Her high, strong soprano voice became well  known in community musical performances.

While at Tech, she worked at the YMCA and Tech Fitness Center as a lifeguard and supervisor of lifeguards. She taught many  children and some adults to swim in lessons there. She also coached the YMCA swim team. Additionally, she worked summers for  Averitt Express and Creative Learning Child Care Center. She loved children and had a special way of getting on their level to  engage them, and they responded unhesitatingly to her.

She loved performing in any venue and had begun competing in  triathlons while continuing her interests in acting, reading classical literature, writing poetry and songs and being an active member of Collegeside Church of Christ. She was actively involved in the church youth group ministries throughout her high school years. Her special love continued to be music, especially opera and classical. She also loved spending time with her many friends and church family. She was a strong, compassionate and kind Christian and a loving and devoted daughter, sister and aunt.  She loved dogs, SportsCenter and the Dallas Mavericks as well.

According to her family, she lived life to the fullest, finished  her course and kept the faith -­ "Our beautiful songbird has flown away."

This scholarship endowment was established by Jim and Anne Wright to assist young women and men who are interested in human ecology pursue a degree at Tennessee Tech. Both Jim and Anne graduated from Tennessee Tech in 1969, Jim with a degree in Industrial Technology and Anne with a degree in Home Economics. They both recognize the importance of education and wanted to continue their support of Tennessee Tech by establishing a scholarship. Jim and Anne feel that their education at Tennessee Tech enabled them to be successful in their careers and wish to give something back. Their business, Phoenix USA, has grown into an international company and they employ many Tennessee Tech graduates. They want Tennessee Tech to do better than just survive as a university; they want Tech to achieve excellence in providing quality education. Jim and Anne have two children, Matt and Ginger, who both work in the business. They have two grandchildren, Tyler and Spencer. They recognize the value of a strong university of excellent quality and its impact on this region's future.

Jimmy and Leroy Mackie, president and vice-president, respectively, of Institutional Wholesale Company, Inc. set up this scholarship in 1987 to provide annual scholarships for business majors at Tennessee Technological University. The two brothers, both TTU graduates, made the initial contribution to create a scholarship endowment. LeRoy Mackie is a 1957 graduate with a degree in social science and Jimmy is a 1955 business management graduate.