The Brand: Scholarship Luncheon By: Emily Slaughter

“People often think that donors who create scholarships do it out of an abundance, but you would be amazed at those who scrimp and save to give back in this way. They do it because they want to honor someone by naming it after them or because they love HSU.”

The Hardin-Simmons University (HSU) Annual Scholarship Luncheon is scheduled for  today. 

“The last Friday of every April, HSU holds our Donor and Recipient Scholarship Luncheon,” Vivian Bland, office manager & campaign coordinator for the Office of Advancement, said. “It is a highlight of the year, giving those who have created endowed scholarships the opportunity to meet the students they have supported. Doing so also allows students to meet donors who are helping to make their dreams and callings come true. We have donors who drive hours to attend the luncheon every year.”

Donors have played a big part in supporting the next generation of students to pursue excellence in education at Hardin Simmons. This luncheon is created to honor the donors as much as the students who are effortlessly working towards their goals.

“The highlight for me is always hearing the stories from the donors and students who speak,” Bland said. “We always spotlight a donor who shares why they support scholarships for HSU students, and we spotlight a student who shares how receiving scholarships is impacting their life.” 

“I am especially looking forward to meeting my donor,” Avery McNatt, a junior business administration and minor in Christian studies from Argyle, said. “Having the opportunity to speak with her in person and personally thank her for her generosity means a lot to me. This scholarship has benefited my education by easing the financial burden on my family. It has allowed me to focus more on my studies and less on financial stress, allowing me to make the most of my college experience. I am getting married this summer, which makes this scholarship even more meaningful. With the added responsibilities and expenses that come with this new chapter in my life, the financial support helps me stay focused on my education and future goals.” 

Donors who support students like McNatt are not just donating to education but helping these students take their first steps into the real world. 

“Now he who supplies seed to the sower and bread for food will also supply and increase your store of seed and will enlarge the harvest of your righteousness.”- 2 Corinthians 9:10