Foundation Scholarships

The Brinkley Foundation Scholarship was established by Jack and Olivia Dowell in support of their strong belief in and dedication to education in Heber Springs. The Dowells, owners of Camp Bear Track in Cleburne County, created this scholarship to give back to the community they’ve long supported.

The scholarship is awarded to a Cleburne County student majoring in education, helping to prepare the next generation of teachers while honoring the Dowells’ legacy of service and commitment to youth development.

Renewal Conditions: The student must be enrolled full time and maintain a grade point average of 3.0 to be considered for renewal of the scholarship for the following semesters.

This scholarship is available to a resident of Cleburne County attending ASU-Beebe Heber Springs. It is available to a freshman or sophomore majoring in any degree field. Scholarship is available to all students regardless of gender.

Renewal Conditions:  The student must be enrolled full time and maintain a 3.0 grade point average to be considered for renewal of the scholarship for the following semesters.

This scholarship honors the commitment of Charles and Regina Stuart to education in general and to leadership achievement in the city of Concord and specifically Concord High School. To be eligible for this scholarship the student must be a resident of Concord and attended Concord High School, graduating with a 2.0 GPA. This applicant must have a counselor recommendation. 

Renewal Conditions:  The student must be enrolled full time and maintain a grade point average of 2.0 to be considered for renewal of the scholarship for the following semesters.

The Denver & Ruby Nettles Scholarship is a memorial scholarship, established in memory of Denver E. Nettles, a former assistant professor and division chair of the agriculture department at ASU-Beebe. Students that are freshmen or sophomore status with financial need qualify for this scholarship.  

Renewal Conditions:  The student must be enrolled full time and achieve a satisfactory grade point average of 2.5 during the fall semester to be considered for renewal of the scholarship for the spring semester.

The Doris Sue Waddle Whittaker Memorial Scholarship was established in 2004 by her family in honor of her memory. This scholarship is for a non-traditional student pursuing a career in nursing at the ASU-Beebe Searcy Campus. 

Renewal Conditions:  The student must be enrolled full time and achieve a grade point average of 2.5 during the fall semester to be considered for renewal of the scholarship for the spring semester.  Scholarship can be renewed up to 3 years.

The Dr. Dianne Logan Scholarship was established in honor of Dr. Dianne Logan, the first Vice Chancellor of ASU-Beebe Heber Springs, to recognize her outstanding leadership and long-standing commitment to higher education in Cleburne County.

This scholarship is awarded to a sophomore student majoring in education who is attending the Heber Springs campus. It reflects Dr. Logan’s lifelong passion for education and her dedication to supporting the next generation of educators.

Dr. Logan was instrumental in transforming the dream of a higher education center in Heber Springs into a reality. Her unwavering commitment to expanding educational access in the region laid the foundation for the campus’s growth and success. In addition to her leadership role, Dr. Logan has served on the ASU-Beebe Board of Visitors and the Heber Springs Development Council, continuing to support the college's mission for many years.

This scholarship stands as a tribute to her vision, service, and enduring impact on the students and community of ASU-Beebe. 

Renewal Conditions:  The student must be enrolled full time and maintain a 3.25 grade point average to be considered for renewal of the scholarship for the spring semester.

As an emeriti professor that taught business at ASU-Beebe for 32 years before retiring in 2000, Dr. Dickey made the commitment to the future for ASU-Beebe students majoring in business. In her many years of teaching, Dr. Dickey has held numerous leadership positions in addition to a classroom instructor of business. She chaired the Division of Applied Arts at ASU-Beebe. She was responsible for the development of the associate of applied science degree in business technology at ASU Beebe. Her impact in teaching was further recognized by twice being named to the “Who’s Who Among America’s Teachers, as well as receiving the ASU-Beebe Positive Teacher Award – which she says holds special significance because this award is nominated by students. Dr. Dickey, who is still very connected to ASU-Beebe and serves on the ASU-Beebe Board of Visitors, the ASU Beebe Development Council as well as serving on the ASU System Foundation Board or Directors, says today’s students have many more options and fewer come to college with a firm path in mind for a career. 

Renewal Conditions:  Can be renewed for Fall and Spring semesters of the same academic year if criteria is met. Only available to the student for 1 year, unless they reapply for 2nd year. The student must be enrolled full time and achieve a satisfactory grade point average of 3.0 during the fall semester to be considered for renewal of the scholarship for the spring semester.

Renewal Conditions:  The student must be enrolled full time and achieve a satisfactory grade point average of 2.5 during the fall semester to be considered for renewal of the scholarship for the spring semester.

The Ruth Couch Endowment Scholarship, established by Dr. Couch in 2005, has left a legacy in education and community service impacting many future generations. Dr. Ruth Couch was born and raised in Magnolia and dreamed of being a teacher and achieving her doctorate. In 1971, Dr. Couch began her 32 year career at Arkansas State University-Beebe as an assistant professor in English and was the first faculty to receive a doctorate. She then served as division chair, and in 1994 was appointed the Vice Chancellor of Academic Affairs. This scholarship is available to a full-time student on any ASU-Beebe campus. 

Renewal Conditions:  The student must be enrolled full time and achieve a satisfactory grade point average of 2.5 during the fall semester to be considered for renewal of the scholarship for the spring semester.

The E.H. “Doc” and Ruth Abington Scholarship was established in 1999 to further the education of students in the community and to carry on the legacy of the Abington name—a name that has been deeply connected to ASU-Beebe since the beginning. Their contributions to the college and the city of Beebe are recognized not only through this scholarship, but also through the naming of the Abington Library, honoring their steadfast support of education and community service.

Doc Abington, a lifelong resident of Beebe, had a long and respected career in banking, eventually serving as President and CEO of Citizens Bank (now First Security). Beyond his professional success, he was a devoted civic leader, contributing to the growth and vitality of Beebe through roles on the City Council, Water Commission, Planning and Zoning Commission, and more. He was a lifelong member of Beebe First United Methodist Church and a proud supporter of ASU-Beebe. From his leadership in local development to his lighthearted role as Frosty the Snowman in the Christmas Parade, Doc was known and loved throughout the community.

Ruth Abington, a U.S. Air Force veteran and career nurse, shared that same deep love for others and passion for education. She was known for her creativity—often painting outdoor landscapes—and her joy in caring for people. Ruth spent most of her life in Antioch and Beebe and strongly supported Doc’s devotion to ASU-Beebe. Education, service, and compassion were values they both lived by.

Together, Doc and Ruth Abington believed in the power of education to transform lives. The E.H. “Doc” and Ruth Abington Scholarship ensures their legacy lives on by supporting students who embody their values of dedication, perseverance, and service to others.

This scholarship is available to a student that has completed a minimum of 24 credit hours at ASU-Beebe and has 3.0 at the time of the award. 

Renewal Conditions:  The student must complete at least 12 semester hours with a grade point average of 3.0 during the first semester of the award (fall) to be eligible for a second semester award. Student must be enrolled full time.

Walter D. England, former Dean of ASU-Beebe, established the England Challenge Scholarship in 1996 to benefit students pursuing a career in teaching. This student must be a sophomore with a 3.25 GPA. Dean England was truly a part of a teaching dynasty. He was one of nine children and eight of the nine became teachers accumulating over 256 years of teaching. Including spouses and children cumulatively there have been 534 years of making a difference in the lives of future leaders in our communities. Dean England retired from ASU-Beebe in 1977. The ASU-Beebe Fine Arts building was dedicated in his honor in 2010 as the Walter D. England Center; which houses the arts and humanities programs including the campus Art Gallery. 

Renewal Conditions:  The student must be enrolled full time and achieve a grade point average of 3.25 during the fall semester to be considered for renewal of the scholarship for the spring semester.

Renewal Conditions:  The student must be enrolled full time and achieve a grade point average of 3.0 during the fall semester to be considered for renewal of the scholarship for the spring semester.

The James C. and Wilma Beard Memorial Scholarship was established by the late Wilma Beard in loving memory of her husband, James C. Beard, to support students attending ASU-Beebe.

James Beard served honorably in the U.S. Army with the 43rd General Hospital as a medic from August 1942 to December 1945. His military honors included two Bronze Stars, five overseas bars, and numerous ribbons and commendations. Following his service, Mr. Beard worked in multiple trades—he was a foreman at the ASU-Beebe Farm for over 14 years, a carpenter, a dairy farmer, and also worked at AP&L (now Entergy).

Wilma Beard, a lifelong educator and community leader, passed away in 2012 at the age of 87. She was a dedicated faculty member at ASU-Beebe, where she retired as Chairman of the English and Fine Arts Division, and previously taught in Beebe Public Schools. Wilma was also a passionate and active member of Beebe First United Methodist Church, where she served in many roles including Certified Lay Speaker, Board of Trustees Member, and Sunday School Teacher. She was active in professional organizations such as Delta Kappa Gamma and Business and Professional Women.

This scholarship reflects the Beards’ lifelong commitment to education, service, and faith—a legacy that continues to benefit ASU-Beebe students today.

Renewal Conditions:  The student must be enrolled full time and achieve a satisfactory grade point average of 2.5 during the fall semester to be considered for renewal of the scholarship for the spring semester.

Established to honor the career of Jeannie Lindsey a retired faculty member who served at ASU-Beebe for 37 years. During her many years of service, Lindsey is credited with creating and expanding the curriculum for both men’s and women’s physical education programs as well as founding the AAU Women’s basketball team at ASU-Beebe. The team reigned as state champions for two years before she helped create the two-year women’s athletic conference in Arkansas. She rose through the ranks and in 1970 was appointed as chair of the Division of Education and Social Sciences at ASU-Beebe. Lindsey continued to coach at ASU-Beebe until 1980 and pioneered the Ozark Women’s Jr. College Athletic Association, established a women’s track team that competed against 4-year universities, a championship women’s archery team, a gymnastics team and an aerobics program that is still part of ASU-Beebe’s physical education curriculum. In addition to her numerous state championships and titles as a coach, Jeannie Lindsey also earned ASU-Beebe’s Distinguished Faculty Award. This scholarship is available to a full-time student with preference given to graduates of Des Arc High School and recipients of the Cap-Myers Award. 

Renewal Conditions:  The student must be enrolled full time and achieve a satisfactory grade point average of 2.5 during the fall semester to be considered for renewal of the scholarship for the spring semester.

This scholarship is from the John Deere Foundation and allows students that are enrolled in the program to benefit.

The Judd Hill Scholarship was established in 2016 by Mike Gibson of Heber Springs, trustee of the Judd Hill Foundation, former member and chairman of the ASU Board of Trustees, and who currently serves on the ASU-Beebe Heber Springs Development Council. This scholarship is for an ASU-Beebe student majoring in a health profession or agriculture, that is attending the ASU-Beebe Heber Springs campus. The Judd Hill Foundation was created in 1985 by Esther Chapin, who passed in 1991 leaving her entire estate including a 4,000 acre farming operation, to Judd Hill Foundation. The foundation has made numerous contributions for the improvement of agriculture and healthcare in Arkansas since its inception. The foundation was created for the purpose of research, experimentation and the dissemination of information to the public on progressive techniques in farming. Today, the farm produces 3,800 acres of cotton annually. 

Renewal Conditions: The student must maintain a 2.0 grade point average to be considered for renewal of the scholarship for the following semesters.

The Larry Sims Agriculture scholarship was established by Marchia Sims, a retired ASU-Beebe employee of 26 years, alumni of ASU-Beebe and wife of the late Larry Sims. In 2005, Mr. Sims passed away suddenly, and she wanted to leave a legacy in loving memory of her husband. The Larry Sims Agriculture scholarship, which began in 2005, is available to any Arkansas High School graduate that is a sophomore at ASU-Beebe majoring in agriculture. Larry W. Sims was from Austin and was a 1959 graduate of Cabot High School. Mr. Sims was an alumnus of ASU-Beebe attended from 1959-1961, and transferred to Arkansas State University graduating in 1963 with a degree in agriculture. After graduation, he then went on to be a field inspector for the Arkansas State Plant Board for over thirty-eight years. 

Renewal Conditions:  The student must be enrolled full time and achieve a satisfactory grade point average of 2.5 during the fall semester to be considered for renewal of the scholarship for the spring semester.

The Leon & Virginia Shanack Scholarship was established by a former ASU-Beebe employee in honor of her parents. This scholarship is available to a non-traditional freshman or continuing education student. If the student is continuing education they must maintain a 3.0 GPA. 

Renewal Conditions:  The student must be enrolled full time and achieve a satisfactory grade point average of 3.0 during the fall semester to be considered for renewal of the scholarship for the spring semester.

This scholarship has been established to honor the Barnett family from the Heber Springs area that supports future generations of students attending the ASU-Beebe Heber Springs campus. The scholarship is available to a Heber Springs High school student and preference is given to education and medical majors. 

Renewal Conditions: The student must maintain a 3.25 grade point average to be considered for renewal of the scholarship for the following semesters.

The Linda Jo Welch Scholarship was named in memory of the late Linda Jo Welch, who was a business instructor at ASU-Beebe at the time of her death. This scholarship is to benefit an ASU-Beebe student majoring in business. 

Renewal Conditions:  None.  Awarded in the spring semester only.

The Marvin Speight Educational Scholarship was established in 2016 through the Arkansas Community Foundation, this scholarship supports full-time students attending ASU-Beebe. It honors the legacy of Marvin E. Speight (1921–2017)—a WWII veteran, lifelong educator, and beloved coach. A Beebe native and proud member of the 1941 state champion Beebe Badgers, Coach Speight served as head basketball coach at ASU-Beebe and later at ASU-Jonesboro before dedicating his career to teaching. His enduring impact on students, athletes, and the community continues through this scholarship. 

Renewal Conditions:  The student must be enrolled full time and achieve a satisfactory grade point average of 2.5 during the fall semester to be considered for renewal of the scholarship for the spring semester.

The R.V. Powell Scholarship was established early on in the history books dating back to the early 1930’s in memory of R.V. Powell a longtime local businessman and friend of ASU-Beebe. R.V. Powell along with State Senator W.H. Abington, who was a local doctor, along with many others had a vision for a “Junior Agricultural School of Central Arkansas” right here in Beebe. Both R.V., his wife Eugenia and their family have given back to ASU-Beebe, the community, and have kept the family legacy alive 91 years later. Their time, energy and financial support over the years have been an integral foundation to making ASU-Beebe a success. This scholarship is one of the oldest and longest standing in the history of ASU-Beebe and is available to agriculture majors, with an emphasis on academic achievement and agriculture. 

Renewal Conditions:  The student must achieve a satisfactory grade point average of 2.5 during the fall semester to be considered for renewal of the scholarship for the spring semester.

This scholarship was established to ease the burden of students living on campus. To be eligible to receive this scholarship a student must reside in campus resident halls, have completed 24 credit hours, be enrolled and complete a minimum of 12 credit hours per semester, and be involved with on campus activities.

PLEASE NOTE: The application for this scholarship will need to include a recommendation from a student services professional at ASU-Beebe. 

Renewal Conditions:  The student must be enrolled full time and achieve a satisfactory grade point average of 2.5 overall to be considered for renewal of the scholarship for the spring semester.  Student must continue living in resident halls.

Established by her husband, John P. Hayes, in honor of Robin Hayes. The Director of Admissions at Arkansas State University-Beebe, retired in 2019, leaving a legacy of service spanning several decades. Hayes arrived at ASU-Beebe in the fall of 1999 as a student recruiter for the Admissions. Hayes attended ASU-Beebe from 1974 to 1976. This scholarship is available to a student majoring in Health Science and for a Business major. 

Renewal Conditions:  The student must be enrolled full time and achieve a satisfactory grade point average of 2.5 during the fall semester to be considered for renewal of the scholarship for the spring semester.

The Spradlin Family Scholarship was established to honor the family and is given to Beebe High School math or science major. The student must be a first-time entering freshman and have a GPA of 3.0. A letter of recommendation must be submitted from a faculty member, administrator, or counselor, as well as a letter outlining personal goals. 

Renewal Conditions:  The student must be enrolled full time and achieve a satisfactory grade point average of 3.0 during the fall semester to be considered for renewal of the scholarship for the spring semester.

The Steve Storm Memorial Scholarship was established in 2011 and allows for a math or science major each year to receive this scholarship in his memory. Mr. Storm was the first instructor of math and science at ASU-Beebe Heber Springs. He taught physics, physical science, earth science, calculus, college algebra, and development algebra. In addition to teaching, Mr. Storm was instrumental in starting online courses for the university. He served as WebCT coordinator, trained instructors to teach online, and conducted orientations for online students. Mr. Storm at one time was named the ASU-Beebe Outstanding Faculty member at the Arkansas Association of Two-Year Colleges Conference. He received two Chancellor’s Awards and served on the ASU-Beebe Heber Springs Development Council. Mr. Storm was also a member of the team that designed the beautiful campus of ASU-Beebe Heber Springs. This scholarship is available to a high school student that has graduated from Heber Springs High School with a 3.25 GPA. 

Renewal Conditions:  The student must achieve a grade point average of 3.25 during the fall semester to be considered for renewal of the scholarship for the spring semester.

The Vernon H. “Jack” and Mary I. Wold Scholarship honors the legacy of two remarkable individuals who retired to Heber Springs, Arkansas, and became deeply involved in the local community. Though both have since passed, their commitment to service and education continues to impact students at ASU-Beebe.

Colonel Vernon “Jack” Wold was a decorated World War II veteran, serving as a tank gunner under General Patton. He later earned a pharmacy degree on the GI Bill and continued his military service in Korea and Vietnam, where he served as a combat medic and oversaw medical supply distribution. A lifelong advocate for youth and education, he was involved in The First Tee golf program and served with the Rotary Club of Heber Springs and the Golden Kiwanis Foundation at the Army Residence Community in San Antonio.

His wife, Mary I. Wold, was a dedicated public servant who served for many years on the Cleburne County Library Board. The library in Heber Springs is named in her honor—the Mary I. Wold County Library—a project that Jack helped bring to life through a successful community fundraising campaign.

The Wolds had a special passion for helping young people pursue their education, and this scholarship stands as a lasting testament to that vision.

This scholarship is available to a resident of Cleburne County enrolled full-time at the ASU-Beebe Heber Springs campus. The student must have a 2.5 GPA. 

Renewal Conditions:  The student must maintain a 2.5 grade point average to be considered for renewal of the scholarship the following semesters. The scholarship is renewable for four consecutive semesters, beginning the fall semester, or until the completion of an Associate degree, whichever comes first.

This scholarship was established to benefit a student in the Veterinary Technology program at ASU-Beebe. A student must be enrolled full time and can either be a freshman or sophomore. Financial need will be taken into consideration. 

Renewal Conditions:  None.

Chancellor William H. Owen, Jr. (1981-1994) brought to the college a strong commitment from the Beebe community. He was a native of Beebe, a graduate of ASU-Beebe, a history teacher for ASU-Beebe, and worked as the University’s Registrar/Dean of Students. He then became Chancellor in 1981. Chancellor Owen ushered into ASU-Beebe not only the technology programs of ASTI but also the University’s first additional campus (located at Newport) now known as ASU-Newport. Sadly, Chancellor Owen passed suddenly in 1994. In honor of his contributions to ASU-Beebe, the University Center was re-named the Owen Center. Also, the William H. Owen, Jr. Scholarship was established in 1994 for a sophomore majoring in any degree program at ASU-Beebe. 

Renewal Conditions:  The student must be enrolled in at least 12 credit hours and must achieve a 3.5 grade point average during the fall semester to be considered for renewal of the scholarship for the spring semester.

The Millan and Kathryn Burrow Leadership Scholarship Endowment was established to support local students and foster leadership development in honor of Millan and Kathryn Burrow.

Millan Burrow, a respected pharmacist and civic leader, founded Burrow’s Drug Store in 1966. For decades, he and Kathryn were deeply committed to serving the Beebe community. The pharmacy, now under new ownership, continues its tradition of personalized care and community engagement.

In addition to his professional contributions, Millan was actively involved in the Kiwanis Club, served on multiple business and financial boards, and held leadership roles in state and national pharmacy organizations. Both Millan and Kathryn were devoted members of Beebe First United Methodist Church and were known for their consistent and humble service to others.

The scholarship endowment stands as a tribute to their legacy, providing students with meaningful support and mentorship opportunities to grow as future leaders.

The Sgt. Jason M. Swindle Hero’s Legacy Scholarship was established to honor the memory of Sgt. Jason M. Swindle, who gave his life in service to his country in Panjway, Afghanistan in 2012. This private foundation scholarship supports the surviving loved ones of fallen military service members, providing them with financial assistance to pursue higher education.

In tribute to Sgt. Swindle’s courage, dedication, and selflessness, this scholarship also reflects ASU-Beebe’s broader commitment to supporting military families and veterans. It offers financial aid and mentorship to help veterans and their families transition to civilian life, enhance their skills, and build fulfilling careers.

Eligibility Summary:
The scholarship is open to military veterans who are high school graduates or GED holders and plan to enroll full-time at ASU-Beebe. Applicants must complete the FAFSA and meet minimum GPA requirements. Additional criteria and preferences may apply.

Through this scholarship, the legacy of Sgt. Swindle continues to inspire and uplift future generations.

The Chuck Wisdom, Jr. Agricultural Heritage Scholarship was established in memory of Charles "Chuck" Weldon Wisdom, Jr., a beloved 30-year faculty member, veteran, mentor, and community leader who dedicated his life to serving others. A lifelong resident of Beebe, Chuck passed away unexpectedly on March 10, 2025.

Chuck joined ASU-Beebe in 1995 as an assistant professor of agriculture, where he inspired and mentored hundreds of students through hands-on, practical education on the ASU-Beebe farm. He was also the longtime Ag Club advisor and a driving force behind Ag Day, which welcomes more than 1,500 FFA students to campus annually. He also helped coordinate ASU-Beebe’s participation in the Sunshine Rodeo, an inclusive event for students with developmental disabilities.

A proud veteran of the Arkansas Air National Guard, Chuck served for 35 years—including a tour in Operation Iraqi Freedom—and retired with the rank of Chief Master Sergeant. Though highly decorated, he was most proud of working side-by-side with his fellow airmen.

Chuck’s legacy lives on through this scholarship, awarded annually to a student pursuing studies in agriculture at ASU-Beebe. It celebrates his lifelong commitment to agricultural education, student success, and community service.

“Chuck Wisdom was truly a pillar in the Beebe community and a cherished member of the ASU-Beebe family,” said Andrea Cole, associate vice chancellor for institutional advancement. “This scholarship ensures that his dedication to students and agriculture will continue to make a difference for years to come.”

The Leon Morris “GRIT to Graduate” Scholarship honors the enduring legacy of Leon Morris—a proud veteran, devoted father, and firm believer in the power of perseverance. This scholarship supports students who have demonstrated exceptional grit: the courage, resolve, and determination to continue their educational journey despite adversity.

Unlike traditional academic scholarships, the GRIT to Graduate Scholarship recognizes strength of character and the will to succeed. It is designed to encourage and uplift students whose life experiences reflect resilience and persistence.

Preference is given to applicants who meet one or more of the following criteria:

• Veterans or military-connected students

• First-generation college students

• Non-traditional students (age 23 or older, returning to college, etc.)

• Students who have completed at least one semester at ASU-Beebe

• Students recommended by a faculty or staff member who has witnessed their determination firsthand

This scholarship represents more than financial aid—it is a vote of confidence in a student’s ability to overcome obstacles and achieve their goals.