Four alumni combine resources to establish new scholarship at Henderson State

From left are: Hillyn Escue, HSU Foundation Administrator; Tyree Watkins ’76; Courtney Brown ’77; and Josh Kee, Vice Chancellor of Development, presenting a $25,000 check to the HSU Foundation to fund the Brown, Pryor, Tillman-Gant, and Watkins Scholarship Endowment. Endowment donors not pictured are Linda Tillman Gant ’78 and Claude Pryor ’77.

Four Henderson State University alumni have come together to establish a new endowed scholarship that will support future generations of students majoring in business, education, or social work.

Courtney Brown (‘77), Linda Tillman-Gant (‘78), Claude Pryor (‘77), and Tyree Watkins (‘76) have jointly contributed $25,000 to create the Brown, Pryor, Tillman-Gant, and Watkins Scholarship Endowment, which will provide annual scholarship support to deserving students who meet the established criteria.

The four alumni — who affectionately refer to themselves as “the family” — have remained close friends since their days on campus. Although they now reside in different parts of the country, their enduring bond and shared appreciation for Henderson inspired them to give back in a way that will directly benefit future Reddies.

"Their decision to create a scholarship endowment reflects a deep commitment to student success, educational opportunity, and the long-term vitality of their alma mater," said Josh Kee, Vice Chancellor of Development. "Through this enduring gift, the group is not only honoring their own experiences at Henderson, but also investing in the next generation of students who will follow in their footsteps."

“Scholarship endowments funded through the HSU Foundation provide meaningful, lasting support by easing financial burdens and empowering students to pursue their academic and career goals,” said Dr. Trey Berry, Henderson State Chancellor. “The Brown, Pryor, Tillman-Gant, and Watkins Endowment is a testament to the power of alumni connection, generosity, and shared purpose.”

For more information about establishing a scholarship endowment at Henderson State University, contact the Office of Development at 870-230-5350 or keej@hsu.edu.