A new scholarship at Williams Baptist University will benefit students in the field of agriculture business. The Turner Family Scholarship has been established in memory of the late Sue Turner of Tuckerman, and it will be awarded yearly to a student majoring in agribusiness at Williams.
The scholarship was established with a $20,000 pledge from Sue Turner’s son, Henry Turner of Jonesboro, who is a WBU alumnus. It was set up by Turner and his wife Mary Jo on behalf of their family, including their children Alexandria Turner, Jonathan Turner, Brittney Turner and the late Shawn Turner.
“The Turner Family Scholarship is a way for my family to honor my mother, Sue Turner,” Henry Turner said. “My mother made sure I had the opportunity to go to college and obtain a degree. Both WBU and my mother have been a large part of me having a dream and helping me have the discipline to achieve my dreams, which include a career in business and investments.”
Agriculture business is a new major at WBU, with classes in the field starting this fall.
“When I heard that WBU was offering a degree in agriculture, I knew I wanted to be a part of this program,” Turner said. “Both my granddads were farmers and they were both an important influence on me and my life. They both knew their business and taught me basic life skills and I developed a strong work ethic while I helped out on the farm.”
The scholarship, which is worth $2,000 per year, is to be awarded annually to a WBU student who plans to enter farming or another agriculture-related business after graduating. Preference will be given to those with a demonstrated need for the scholarship assistance, and to Arkansas students who plan to work in the state.
“The Turner family shares our excitement for the new agriculture business program at Williams, and they are helping make that education achievable for our students,” said Luke Colley, vice president for institutional advancement. “This is a great tribute to a wonderful lady. This scholarship assures that her legacy will long be remembered, and it will make a lasting impact on students at WBU.”
