Undergraduate Student Awards and Scholarships

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Below is a list of CFWE Undergraduate Awards and Scholarships, with information about the person, family, or institution that has made the award or scholarship possible. Awards are given annually and designated by the faculty-led CFWE Awards Committee. Scholarship funds are allocated to students through Auburn University’s admissions process. Complete information and eligibility will be available along with the application through AUSOM.

African American Alumni Endowed Scholarship

This permanent endowment is established by African American Alumni of the College of Forestry, Wildlife and Environment, along with other alumni and friends. The purpose is to increase diversity by providing scholarships to underrepresented students in forestry and wildlife sciences. To be eligible for consideration, a student shall be from an underrepresented group, must be enrolled in the College of Forestry, Wildlife and Environment (CFWE), and be a first-generation college attendee, with preference given to those pursuing a forestry degree.

Alabama Association of Conservation Districts Auxiliary Endowed Scholarship

This endowment was established in 2007 by the Alabama Association of Conservation Districts Auxiliary for the purpose of providing scholarships for students in the College of Agriculture, College of Forestry, Wildlife and Environment, and Agricultural Science Education. The Alabama Association of Conservation Districts, organized in August 1943, is a nonprofit, nongovernmental organization of the 67 Soil and Water Conservation Districts in Alabama. The Association serves as a vehicle for unified action by districts, exchange of information and discussion of issues.

Alabama Ag Credit Annual Scholarship

Alabama Ag Credit traces its history of rural mortgage financing back more than a century. They serve 40 counties in Central and South Alabama, and provide a full array of financing for farms, timber and forestry operations, rural real estate, agribusinesses, equipment, and livestock. Because of their interest in the conservation of Alabama’s natural resources, Alabama Ag Credit created this annual scholarship to support a high-achieving student in forestry, wildlife and environment majors.

The Alabama Farmers Agriculture Foundation Scholarship

The Alabama Farmers Agriculture Foundation is awarded to high-achieving young men and women from Alabama studying in the areas of agriculture, forestry, fisheries, agricultural engineering, biological sciences or agricultural education. This scholarship was created to support and advance agriculture in the State of Alabama through education and research; increase awareness of agriculture in Alabama through public programs and activities; improve and expand agricultural services and products for the benefit of all citizens; and establish and maintain high standards in agriculture.

Alabama TREASURE Forest Association Forestry Annual Scholarship

This annual scholarship is established through the Auburn University Foundation by the Alabama TREASURE Forest Association. Formed in 1990, the Alabama TREASURE Forest Association (ATFA) is a 501(c)3 nonprofit, educational corporation. ATFA’s primary goal is to promote the multiple-use forest philosophy and TREASURE Forest Certification (an acronym for Timber, Recreation, Environment, Aesthetics for a Sustainable, Usable Resource). The association is comprised of stewardship-minded men and women dedicated to improving the forestland of our state and nation by managing for multiple uses, including wildlife habitat and biodiversity, pine and hardwood timber resources, clean water and air, recreational opportunities, alternative crops and beautiful scenery. The TREASURE Forest philosophy of managing for multiple uses ensures the land is cared for while meeting the landowner’s current needs. Like the TREASURE Forest acronym indicates, our members’ main management goals are varied and diverse. While members do not have to be TREASURE Forest owners – they may not own any land – they all believe in and promote the multiple-use management of Alabama’s forests.

Alabama TREASURE Forest Association Wildlife Annual Scholarship

Armistead-Woody Family Military Service Award

This annual award was created by Gordon Armistead, Chip Woody, and their families to support a junior or senior majoring in forestry. The student must demonstrate academic excellence and be a veteran of any branch of the U.S. military or reserve forces.

Rose Eugene Atchison Endowed Scholarship in Forestry

Sue Pearson has invested in the future of forestry in Alabama by establishing an endowed scholarship in the School of Forestry in honor of her father, Rose Eugene Atchison. Atchison was born in 1886, the oldest of eight children. He worked for Paul Mercer Barnett’s Lumber Company before establishing his own lumber company. He was a successful businessman, and by the time of his death in 1974, he had acquired a large holding of real estate and land. Pearson said that her father always wished that he could have attended Auburn. Rose Atchison may not have been able to attend Auburn, but now because of his hard work and his daughter’s generosity, someone else can.

Elizabeth Powers and John Coleman Banks Endowed Scholarship in Forestry

In 1998, “Bibbie” Banks of Eutaw, Ala., created the Banks scholarship in both her and her late husband’s names. John Coleman Banks graduated from the College of Agriculture at API in 1922 before a forestry program was offered. Bibbie said that if her husband loved her half as much as he loved Auburn, they would do just fine.

Norman Buce Bearden Endowed Memorial Scholarship in Forestry and Wildlife

This memorial scholarship was established in 1990 by the family of Norman Buce Bearden to honor his life. Bearden, a 1988 wildlife graduate, was born in 1960 in Mobile, Ala. He was an active member of the Alabama Wildlife Federation and the Baldwin County Wildlife Federation. As an active outdoorsman, Bearden had a deep interest in preserving wildlife resources for the enjoyment of all.

Matthew Chad Blankenship Endowed Scholarship

The happiest event in a mother’s and father’s life is the birth of their child. This was the case on July 9, 1979, when Matthew Chad Blankenship was born to Pat and Bruce Blankenship. The saddest event in the life of parents is the loss of their child. This occurred when Chad’s life was taken in a motorcycle accident on August 12, 2007. He was the youngest of the Blankenships’ three children after Keith and Jennifer. After graduating from Scottsboro High School, Chad attended Southern Union Community College, with plans to enroll in Auburn the following year. His love for family took precedence, and he married the love of his life, Abbie Mathis Blankenship. They were blessed with three sons: Beau, Tyson and Storm. Storm was born after Chad’s death. Even though he had a thriving landscaping business, Chad still realized the importance of education. He was determined to earn a degree from Auburn and was in the process of enrolling when he was taken so early in his life. Chad had a love for the outdoors and was passionate about sports, hunting and fishing.

Billy C. Bond Endowed Scholarship in the College of Forestry, Wildlife and Environment

This permanent endowment was established by Billy C. Bond for the purpose of providing scholarships for students in the College of Forestry, Wildlife and Environment majoring in forestry. Billy Bond retired in 2000 as the President of Alabama River Woodlands, Inc. and Vice President of Alabama River Chip Mills, Inc. He served in the Mississippi National Guard and in 1951, at the age of 17, enlisted in the United States Air Force and served four years as an NCO in the Air Training Command. Bond received a BS Degree in Forestry from LSU in 1957 and was a registered forester in the State of Alabama. He earned a Juris Doctor Degree from Jones Law School in Montgomery, Alabama, in 1974 and was admitted to the Alabama Bar in 1975. Bond began his career in 1957 as a forester with Kimberly-Clark at its Coosa River Newsprint Company subsidiary. In 1965, he joined Hammermill Paper Company at the outset of the company’s pulp and paper venture in Selma, Ala. In 1986, Hammermill merged with International Paper Company, and Bond was assigned as the Regional Manager of Logging and Fiber. From 1987-1990, he served as the President of Harrigan Lumber Company in Monroeville, Ala. In 1990, Bond accepted the position of President of Alabama River Woodlands Inc. He was charged with the unprecedented task of developing and managing a sustainable wood supply for the two Parson and Whittemore-owned Alabama River pulp mills and a joint venture, the Alabama River Newsprint, Inc. mill, all located at Claiborne, Ala. Together, they were the world’s largest wood-consuming complex on one site.

Frank W. Boykin/Tensaw Land & Timber Endowed Scholarship in Forestry and Wildlife

The Boykin/Tensaw Scholarship was created in 1985 by Tensaw Land and Timber Company to honor the late Frank W. Boykin, a native of Washington County, Ala., who owned timberland. A U.S. Congressman, Boykin served in the U. S. House of Representatives for nearly three decades and facilitated many positive improvements for Mobile and rural southwest Alabama.

Lynn Dent Boykin Youth Wildlife Scholarship

The Boykin Scholarship, funded through the Alabama Conservation and Natural Resources Foundation, was established in honor of Lynn Dent Boykin in 2002. Boykin served as the first female to be elected president of the National Wild Turkey Federation. Governor Don Siegelman made the following comment of Boykin in 2002: “Lynn dedicated her life to promoting conservation and providing people everywhere with a better understanding of God’s gifts of nature.”

Richard W. Brinker Endowed Scholarship

Dr. Dick Brinker came to Auburn University in 1988 with a joint appointment in teaching and extension. He was at Auburn for 23 years, with 13 of those years serving as the Dean of the School of Forestry and Wildlife Sciences. Among the many accomplishments during his tenure, he oversaw the joining of the forestry and wildlife programs and the construction of the Forestry and Wildlife Building on Duncan Drive.

Burgin Timberland Endowed Scholarship in Forestry

The Burgin Scholarship in Forestry was established in 1996 by the company’s president, Robert Burgin III. Forestry has been the backbone of the Burgin family for more than 100 years. Through this endowment, Burgin Timberland hopes to ensure the quality and capabilities of tomorrow’s forestry professionals by supporting the education of today’s students.

Cambell Global Scholarship

Campbell Global, LLC is a global investment manager focused on timberland and is widely recognized as an authority on both forestry management and timberland investing. Based in Portland, Oregon, Campbell Global has more than three decades of experience in timberland management and value creation. As property managers in Alabama, Campbell Global’s goal in awarding this scholarship is to impact the lives of students in the state who will one day become timberland managers.

Chuck and Deborah Hopkins Carter Endowed Scholarship

Forestry has been a major influence in the Carters’ lives. Deborah’s family established Toledo Manufacturing Company over 100 years ago. As time has passed, the company has evolved with the ever-changing business landscape. Chuck and Deborah established this scholarship to support students who are majoring in Geospatial and Environmental Informatics and advancing technology used in forest and land management. Their hope is that this new technology will better assist with the management of timber and forest assets.

COL Charles D. Chitty, Jr. Endowed Scholarship

This scholarship was established by Charles Chitty and his family in memory of his father, COL Charles D. Chitty, Jr. COL Chitty was born in Ft. Gaines, Georgia, on November 1, 1914. He attended Middle Georgia College and later, Alabama Polytechnic Institute (now Auburn University) on baseball scholarships before joining the Army Air Corps in 1937. COL Chitty served 28 years of active duty in the U.S. Air Force, retiring in 1965 as a command pilot with 5,600 flight hours. COL Chitty fondly remembered his time at Auburn and proudly wore his “A” Club letter sweater. He had a lifelong interest in wildlife and forestry and was happiest when he was able to visit, fish, hunt and work on his family’s timber properties in southwest Georgia.

Christen, DeBrunner, Posey, Raper Endowed Scholarship in Forestry and Wildlife Sciences

This scholarship was endowed by forestry alumni and friends in memory of four esteemed former faculty: Professor Harold Christen, Dr. Earl DeBrunner, Dr. Henry Posey and Professor Charles Raper. Professor “Chris” was said to be a gentle, hard-driving, hard-living, hard-sweating, devout Christian. He never asked students to do anything he could not do better himself and that he knew they could not do. Christen served Auburn from 1946-1976. Earl DeBrunner, a 34-year veteran of the School of Forestry, was coordinator of student services for more than 10 years while continuing to teach classes in forest fire control and use, wildland recreation philosophy and policy and forest recreation planning and management. Henry Posey was a member of the forestry faculty from 1950-1978. He is best remembered for his work with the forestry students as their academic advisor and personal confidante. Charles F. Raper began at Auburn in 1988 as the first George W. Peake Professor of Forestry teaching forest policy. Charlie wanted to bring his many years of forest finance experience to the classroom. He reveled in being with the students and they loved him.

Bryan Wayne Cole/Beth Thorne Stukes Ever Auburn Endowed Scholarship

Bryan and Mickie Cole grew up in the small rural community of Russellville, Ala. They were both from single-parent homes where they learned to appreciate hard work and the struggles life sometimes throws at you. With some financial help from their parents and hard work in the classroom, both received their undergraduate degrees. Mickie received her Bachelor of Science in Marketing at the University of North Alabama in 1989 and Bryan received a Bachelor of Science in Economics in 1991 and Forestry Management in 1992 from Auburn University. As they entered the real world, they quickly realized the value of their education and the doors that were opened to them as college graduates, especially through honesty and hard work. As a result of their labors and financial discipline, Bryan and Mickie find themselves fortunate to have the opportunity to give back and help others. The Coles know what education has meant to them and understand that sometimes people lack the financial resources to reach their full potential. They hope that by partnering with Beth Thorne Stukes, this endowment will provide those resources and create opportunities for success for all recipients.

College of Forestry, Wildlife and Environment Annual Scholarship

These scholarships are given by the College of Forestry, Wildlife and Environment to award students for academic excellence.

Compass Circle/Bashinsky Ever Auburn Endowed Scholarship

The Compass Circle, the College of Forestry, Wildlife and Environment’s young alumni giving society, was founded in 2016 by a group of young CFWE alumni with a passion for philanthropy and a goal of creating an endowed scholarship that will ease the financial burden of current or future students enrolled in the College. Funds raised through annual Compass Circle memberships enabled the young alumni giving society to reach its goal of creating this endowed scholarship in 2022, which is also supplemented by matched funds from the Birmingham, Alabama-based Bashinsky Foundation.

John Dorrill, Jr. Memorial Annual Scholarship

This scholarship was established by the TREASURE Forest Association in memory of John Dorrill, Jr., for a lifetime of contributions to forestry, agriculture, and wildlife. Mr. Dorrill graduated from Pike County High School, attended Troy State University, and later served two years in the Army Counterintelligence Corps during the Korean War. When he returned to Alabama, Dorrill enrolled at Alabama Polytechnic Institute (Auburn University), where he earned a degree in agricultural economics. Dorrill enjoyed spending time with his family at the farm in Pike County. He often shared his farm with others, hosting events such as the annual Take a Kid Fishing Day in Pike County and tours on his timberland, which is a certified TREASURE Forest.

Harry V. Dunn, Jr. and Erin S. Dunn Endowed Fund for Excellence

This endowment was established by Harry V. Dunn, Jr., and Erin S. Dunn for the purpose of providing funds for excellence in the College of Forestry, Wildlife and Environment. Mr. Dunn was a graduate of the Auburn University Forestry Department, Class of 1952. He enjoyed a successful career with Gulf States Paper Company, now known as Westervelt. In devotion to Auburn, he and his wife chose to endow funds which will provide scholarships for students in the College of Forestry, Wildlife and Environment.

Art and Ellen Dyas Endowed Scholarship

This permanent endowment is established by Art and Ellen Dyas for the purpose of providing scholarships for students in the College of Forestry, Wildlife and Environment. Art Dyas graduated from the Auburn School of Forestry in 1973 and continued his education at Auburn with a master’s in business administration in 1975. Dyas began his career with International Paper Company before joining the Trust Natural Resources Department of AmSouth Bank in Mobile, Ala. He started his forestry consulting firm, S. E. Natural Resources, Inc. in 1985. Art and Ellen have one son, Hunter, who graduated from Auburn University. Hunter is a graduate architect and resides in Washington, DC.

Pat Dye and Nancy McDonald Scholarship in the School of Forestry and Wildlife Sciences

This scholarship was created in honor of Coach Pat Dye and Dr. Nancy McDonald for their dedication to the College of Forestry, Wildlife and Environment. Their dedication will leave a lasting impact on our students and faculty and strengthen the academic opportunities of the College. Pat Dye served from 1981 until 1992 as Auburn University’s head football coach. He built the Auburn football program into a power in the Southeastern Conference. Dr. Nancy McDonald taught nursing at Auburn for 25 years and was an assistant dean at the nursing school.

Lanier J. Edwards Family Endowed Scholarship

Lanier J. Edwards was born in Ball Ground, Georgia, on his family’s farm. He earned his degree from Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College and the University of Georgia (BSFR). His father, Jack Rivers Edwards, earned a very prestigious certified farm award by the State of Georgia for family farms that contributed to preserving Georgia’s agricultural history by maintaining working farms for more than 100 years. Jack’s love for the land passed to Lanier and his children, John Edwards, Sarah Hall and Krista Ray. Lanier operated a wood supplier organization, producing over one million tons per year for over 30 years, but his real passion was buying land and merchandising the land to the final owner. Lanier has purchased over 520,000 acres of land in the Southeast and one tract of land in Canada, and has spent a lifetime dedicated to being a good steward of the land and developing wildlife habitats for his favorite animals, such as quail, turkey and deer. Lanier wanted to give back to the Auburn University College of Forestry, Wildlife and Environment, which gave him many opportunities to meet people in the same great profession, so that the American Dream could come true for a poor boy from North Georgia, by making anything out of life that he chooses. The State of Alabama has so many great people in the profession of Forest Management, and Lanier has been blessed to have worked his entire career in this great State of Alabama. Lanier hopes and prays that this scholarship will open the door to the next generation of professional forest managers and their future success in forest land management.

Ollie Edward and James Wilma “Jim” Estes Endowed Scholarship

Lifetime residents of Elmore County, Ala., Ollie and his wife, “Jim,” as everyone knew her, married in 1935 during the Depression and worked hard to build a life in Wetumpka, Ala. Ollie, a veteran of WWII, entered the war at age 23 and was honorably discharged after the war. Upon returning home to Wetumpka, the couple bought their first Amoco service station, beginning a lifelong quest to support their growing family. For over 40 years, they purchased gas stations in Elmore County, allowing for the purchase of tracts of land throughout. Ollie and Jim had four children: Steven, Jenny, Cathy and Molly. Cathy graduated from Auburn with honors in 1970, and her sister Jenny attended briefly. Ollie and Jim were respected residents of Wetumpka, fostering a love for family, community and land management.

During their career in the gas and oil business, Jim and Ollie acquired and managed thousands of acres throughout Elmore County. They spent countless hours on their land surveying the needs and delighting in the prolific wildlife. Ollie raised prized bird dogs, cultivated a natural habitat for upland game birds and enjoyed hunting on many of their properties. He was a man of the land and for the land. After Ollie’s passing in 1982, Jim continued to run Estes Oil Company and purchased additional land and Timber. Jim was a longtime Wetumpka Chamber of Commerce member and served on the Elmore Community Hospital Board. They were proud of a lifetime dedicated to being good stewards of land, timber, and natural resources.

Five Star Preserve Annual Scholarship

This annual scholarship is established by Five Star Preserve to be awarded to a junior or senior enrolled in the College of Forestry, Wildlife and Environment with a declared major in Wildlife Enterprise Management. Five Star is a six-thousand-acre, private upland hunting preserve, nestled between the Appalachian Mountains to the north and the Southern Coastal Plains to the south in Coosa County, Alabama. S. Z. Mitchell settled back in this land after becoming one of the country’s most successful entrepreneurs. Mitchell built the Ann Jordan Lodge in the mid-1930s, where he would hunt and entertain with his family, childhood friends and acquaintances from around the globe. In 1944, the Mitchell family donated the land, which it continued as a private hunting sanctuary and faculty retreat. In 1994, William Reynolds “Bill” Ireland purchased the property and today, Five Star is one of the country’s most prestigious upland hunting clubs, offering 14 bird fields, two Continental Courses, Bunker Shoot, Duck Shoot, Turkey and Deer hunting.

Garden Clubs of Alabama Endowed Forestry Conservation Scholarship

Endowed by the Garden Club of Alabama, Inc., this scholarship began in 1962 with an annual award named for Adele Attaway of Montgomery. In 1978, the Garden Club of Alabama, Inc. made the scholarship permanent by creating an endowment. The club boasts more than 200 chapters in the state.

George E. (Eddie) Gibson, Sr. Endowed Scholarship

The George E. (Eddie) Gibson, Sr. Endowed Scholarship in the CFWE was established by his son and daughter-in-law, Mr. and Mrs. George Edward Gibson, Jr., to celebrate Eddie’s love for Auburn, his contribution to the forest industry in West Alabama and his commitment to Alabama’s forest economy. Eddie Gibson graduated from Auburn in 1953 with a degree in Forestry. After serving his country as an Armor Captain in the U.S. Army, Eddie enjoyed a long and successful career with the American Can Company. He was eventually promoted to Alabama Woodlands Manager, overseeing 340,000 acres until his retirement in 1991. This scholarship is for students with a declared major in Forestry.

William L. Hamberlin II Annual Scholarship

William (Will) Laird Hamberlin II, 30, of Máncora, Peru, died Friday, July 30, 2021, in Máncora from injuries sustained in a climbing accident. Will was born on April 1, 1991, in San Antonio, Texas. He began his education in Cumming, Ga. from 1st thru 8th grade and then attended the Singapore American School, Singapore until his graduation in 2009. Will graduated from the University of British Columbia in Vancouver, Canada, with a BS in Sustainable Design in 2014, where he was also a member of the Kappa Sigma Fraternity. He was an artist, a poet, a dreamer, a teacher, a nature lover, a world traveler, a hunter and a fisherman but most importantly, he was a superb human. This scholarship was created by Safari Club International Foundation in Will’s memory in 2022.

Hancock Forest Management Annual Scholarship

This annual scholarship is established through the Auburn University Foundation by Hancock Forest Management, Inc. to provide scholarships for the students of the College of Forestry, Wildlife and Environment studying Forestry. At Hancock Forest Management, “Hancock Forestry” means a commitment to meeting the highest standards for timberland property management. They combine leading forest management techniques with outstanding environmental stewardship to provide maximum value to our clients. Their forest management operations across the globe provide an extensive range of on-the-ground timberland management services through our forestry personnel. These services are now provided to 6.2 million acres across the globe. Management activities are customized to fit the characteristics of each individual property. They strive to practice a land stewardship ethic that integrates the growing, managing and harvesting of trees with environmental conservation. Their practices protect soil, air, water quality, biological diversity, wildlife habitat, aquatic habitat, recreation and aesthetics. Sustainable forestry practices allow us to actively manage and protect our clients’ timberland investments in a way that maintains and enhances economic, community and natural resource values.

Mamie L. Hardy Memorial Endowment for Scholarships

This scholarship was created by an estate gift to the Auburn University Foundation by Mamie L. Hardy. Hardy, one of 10 children, was born and raised on a farm in Coosa County. She graduated from Auburn University in 1950 and later from Iowa State with degrees in home economics. In both schools, she had to earn the money to pay for her tuition and other expenses. Those experiences gave her a heart for young people who would need help to pay for college. Her career included time with the Alabama Extension Service, the National Maid of Cotton tour, Coats and Clark’s and in publishing. She retired in 1995 and enjoyed her remaining days in Auburn. She passed away in January 2007.

Howard B. Harmon Endowed Scholarship

The Howard B. Harmon Scholarship was created in memory of Mr. Harmon by his granddaughter, Lynne Schwarzauer, and her husband, Jerry. Howard Banks Harmon Sr. was born in Gainesville, Georgia, on June 14th, 1893. He served in World War I from 1917-1919 and married his sweetheart, Margaret Fredonia Fiel,d in 1920. They had two children, Margaret H. Weldon and Howard B. Harmon, Jr. Mr. Harmon attended the University of Georgia. He was employed by Retail Credit Company, now known as Equifax, located in Atlanta, Georgia, where he served in the role of Vice President until his death on January 7th, 1964. Several of Mr. Harmon’s grandchildren and great-grandchildren attended Auburn University.

Margaret Atchison Hathaway Endowed Scholarship in Non-Game Wildlife Management

Margaret Atchison Hathaway was born in Alabama in 1917 to Hester Wear Atchison and Rose Eugene Atchison. Having a father and grandfather who were both lumbermen and landowners, Margaret developed an early love of nature. Margaret’s passions were feeding and watching birds, working in her garden and watching Auburn football. Her daughter, Kay Hathaway Jones, established this scholarship in 2008. Kay says that her mother will be remembered for her honesty, her exceptional memory and her love of life.

Edward A. Hauss Endowed Scholarship in Forestry

Edward A. Hauss of Brewton, Ala., created an endowment prior to his death in 1955 to assist forestry students. The late Susan Phillips, great-granddaughter of Hauss, said, “He was a true Southern gentleman who grew up in the lumber business and liked to go turkey hunting and fishing.” Due to the generosity of Edward A. Hauss in 1955, the endowment has now grown to more than $1 million.

The Henson and Kirkland Foundation Endowed Scholarship

This endowment was established in 2022 for the purpose of easing the financial burden of a college education through scholarships. Based in rural Washington County, Alabama, a county largely covered by forest and timberland, the Henson and Kirkland Foundation seeks to assist those who wish to responsibly steward and conserve today’s resources for future generations.

High Adventure Company/Swarovski Allie Saker Memorial Annual Scholarship

The Allie Saker Scholarship was established to recognize a high-achieving student majoring in Wildlife Enterprise Management. Allie is remembered as an up-and-comer in the outdoor and sporting industry and as someone who touched the hearts of all who knew her. She not only embraced the sporting lifestyle – she lived it. Allie was taken from this world doing what she loved most: enjoying nature and outdoor activities. As a valued member of the Swarovski team, Allie ensured High Adventure Company guides and clients were well-equipped for their expeditions around the globe. This scholarship recognizes Allie as an emerging leader in our industry and encourages others to follow the great example she set.

Hispanic Alumni Endowed Scholarship

There is a persistent underrepresentation of Hispanic, Black, and other underserved groups in the forestry, wildlife sciences and natural resources career fields. Erica Santana ’10, M.S. (Wildlife Science) and Sebastian Rodriguez ’15, B.S. (Natural Resources Management) sponsored this scholarship with a heartfelt conviction for advancing diversity and inclusion in the College of Forestry, Wildlife and Environment at Auburn University. Their personal experiences and unique academic journeys at Auburn have compelled them to sponsor and support this opportunity for other Hispanic students. These career fields benefit from the unique voices of diverse practitioners and the values and perspectives that they bring to their discipline. Their sincere hope is that the scholarship serves as a vehicle of opportunity and reward for students of high ambition – to focus their talent and potential in furtherance of their education and contributions to their chosen field.

Garrett D. Hood/Ducks Unlimited, Inc. Annual Fund for Excellence

Garrett Dudley Hood was born on June 3, 1995, and was raised in the Auburn, AL area. He loved many things, but the two that were most important to him were Ducks Unlimited and Auburn University. He was known for his passion for the things he loved – he enjoyed hunting and conservation, but would tell you that the companionship with his friends and family meant more to him than any hunt. Garrett began attending Ducks Unlimited banquets at a young age with his father. As the years passed and Garrett began to learn more about conservation, he followed in his father’s footsteps and joined the local committee in Auburn. Garrett was constantly giving and thinking outside of the box to ensure the success of his local Ducks Unlimited chapter. He had many plans for his life, which always included Ducks Unlimited and Auburn University. Garrett passed away on February 10, 2019. The purpose of this scholarship is to ensure that those plans and his legacy of a giving spirit continue.

Garrett D. Hood/Ducks Unlimited, Inc. Annual Scholarship

Garrett D. Hood is remembered for his passion for the things he loved, particularly Ducks Unlimited and Auburn University. He enjoyed hunting and conservation, the companionship of his friends and family, and being an active member in his local Ducks Unlimited chapter. This scholarship was established to honor and ensure that Garrett’s legacy of a giving spirit will continue.

W. Earl Hughes Annual Memorial Scholarship in Forestry

James Earl Hughes was born in Butler County, Alabama, in 1934. He grew up in the Mt. Pleasant community before establishing residence in Greenville, Ala., where he lived until his death. Hughes served in the National Guard for more than 30 years and worked in the sales industry. He loved the outdoors, which included hunting and fishing with his nephew, Jeff. Hughes died in 1992 at the age of 58. In 1994, his nephew, Jeff Bentley, established this scholarship in his memory for the purpose of providing a summer practicum scholarship for a student in the College of Forestry, Wildlife and Environment majoring in Forestry.

International Paper Annual Scholarship

International Paper is one of the world’s leading producers of fiber-based packaging and pulp. By transforming renewable resources into products people depend on every day, the company improves people’s lives, the planet, and the company’s performance. International Paper is committed to fostering a diverse culture where all individuals are valued, engaged, and contribute to the company’s success. This scholarship was created because both diversity and inclusion in our workplace and responsible forestry are integral to our sustainability commitments to build a better future for our people and planet.

Steve Jackson Annual Memorial Scholarship in Forestry and Wildlife

The Jackson scholarships were created in 1979 by Coy Jackson, the father of the late Steve Jackson. Jackson resided in Andalusia, Ala. The scope of the scholarship was broadened in 2002, allowing wildlife students to also be eligible for this award.

“Choppy” Bruce Johnson Annual Scholarship

This scholarship was established in 2012 in memory of “Choppy” Bruce Johnson, a native of Ozark, AL, and a 1965 graduate of Auburn University. Choppy was employed by the Alabama Forestry Commission for his entire career and enjoyed hunting, fishing and spending time outdoors. This scholarship was created in his honor by his sister, Alice J. Mallory, because of the great love and respect he had for forestry and wildlife.

Hugh Kaul Annual Scholarship

Hugh Kaul’s family history has long been associated with forestry and the lumber industry, beginning with the establishment of the Sample Lumber Company in the 1800s, which later became known as the Kaul Lumber Company. Kaul successfully organized the Alabama Forestry Association with the goal of promoting conservation throughout the forest products industry in Alabama. His leadership in the Forest Farmers’ Association and the College of Forestry, Wildlife and Environment Advisory Council further attests to his interest in the forest industry. Today, the Kaul family holdings of timberland in Alabama continue to benefit from the industry expertise generated by the College of Forestry, Wildlife and Environment.

L. Michael Kelly Ever Auburn Endowed Scholarship

Michael graduated from Auburn University in 1979 with a Bachelor of Science in Forestry, which he supplemented with an MBA from the University of South Alabama in 1987. He retired in 2019 after a successful forestry career, starting in industrial forestry with International Paper Company and continuing in investment forestry with Forest Investment Associates, a leading timberland investment management organization. As an advocate and longtime practitioner of sound forestry, a believer in the value of higher education and a passionate supporter of Auburn, Michael endowed an Ever Auburn scholarship to help talented students pursue their educational dreams and goals – not only in forestry, but in any of the excellent degree programs offered by the CFWE.

Tom Kelly Endowed Scholarship in Forestry and Wildlife Sciences

Born on May 15, 1927, Tom Kelly graduated from the School of Forestry at Auburn in 1949. After serving his country as a colonel in the Army, Kelly enjoyed a successful and long tenure with Scott Paper Company in Mobile, Alabama, from 1953 to 1993. Because of his skillful leadership and effective management style, Kelly left an indelible impression on countless individuals. To commemorate the 60th anniversary of his graduation from Auburn University, Tom’s friends and colleagues created the Tom Kelly Endowed Scholarship in the College of Forestry, Wildlife and Environment to celebrate his contribution to the forest industry and commitment to Alabama’s forest economy.

M. Barnett Lawley Annual Scholarship

The Barnett Lawley Annual Scholarship in Forestry and Wildlife was created in 2011 by H. Cannon Lawley to honor his father. Barnett Lawley, a lifelong resident of Pell City, is a retired business owner who has distinguished himself as a leader in conservation-related activities and service to his community. He most recently served as commissioner of the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources from 2003 to 2011. On Jan. 16, 2011, Lawley was appointed to the Alabama State Oil and Gas Board. A prominent civic leader, he has served his community in numerous capacities to include Pell City councilman and in major leadership roles in organizations such as the Pell City Chamber of Commerce, Pell City Industrial Board, Pell City Retail Development Board, St. Clair County Airport Authority, as well as in local service clubs.

William Russell Hooten II, Academic Improvement Award in Forestry

This award was established by Mary Ann Hooten in honor of her husband Billy Hooten. Billy is a 1988 graduate in forestry. Each year this award is presented to a student majoring in forestry that has made the most significant academic improvement during his/her tenure at Auburn by demonstrating academic excellence within the CFWE.

Barnett Lawley Annual Scholarship in Forestry and Wildlife

The Barnett Lawley Annual Scholarship in Forestry and Wildlife was created in 2011 by H. Cannon Lawley, Barnett’s son, to honor his dad. Barnett Lawley, a lifelong resident of Pell City, is a retired business owner who has distinguished himself as a leader in conservation-related activities and in service to his community. He most recently served as Commissioner of the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources from 2003 to 2011. On Jan. 16, 2011, Lawley was appointed to the Alabama State Oil and Gas Board. A prominent civic leader, he has served his community in numerous capacities to include Pell City Councilman and in major leadership roles in organizations such as the Pell City Chamber of Commerce, Pell City Industrial Board, Pell City Retail Development Board, St. Clair County Airport Authority, as well as in local service clubs.

Charles G. Lawson Memorial Endowed Scholarship in Wildlife Sciences

The Charles G. Lawson Scholarship was established by Pennie Lawson Smith and her family in memory of her father, Charles G. Lawson. Lawson founded Lawson Trucking Company in 1972 with one tractor-trailer and the work ethic and desire to provide outstanding customer service. The success of Lawson Trucking Company was due to the dedication of Lawson, who passed away in 2011 from leukemia. “Charlie” was admired by his family, peers, and business associates, as well as colleagues around the globe. He valued education and dearly loved his two grandchildren, who are currently attending Auburn. Lawson’s legacy will live on through the Charles G. Lawson Memorial Endowed Scholarship at Auburn University.

Robert E. (Bob) Lee, III Annual Scholarship

A native of North Carolina, Bob Lee received a Master of Forestry degree from Duke University and was a career employee of Union Camp Corporation. After various forestry assignments with Union Camp, he came to Alabama in 1974 as Woodlands Manager for the company’s operations in Prattville. In addition to his corporate responsibilities, he was involved in a number of professional and civic activities. One activity he was particularly proud of was his involvement with the State’s forestry community and Auburn University in elevating Auburn’s forestry program from department to school status. As President of the Alabama Forestry Association in 1982, he made this activity a focus of his tenure. To commemorate Bob’s commitment to this effort, a number of the College’s alumni and friends established this scholarship in his memory.

T. Avery Littrell II and Melba R. Littrell Endowment for Scholarships in Forestry

The T. Avery Littrell, II and Melba R. Littrell Endowment for Scholarships in Forestry was created through a bequest of Melba R. Littrell in 2000. The Littrell family has owned and operated Littrell Lumber Mill, Inc. for over 100 years, producing the highest quality products in the lumber industry. The stumps are visible today where Avery, Sr. harvested the timber in the flood zone when TVA built the hydroelectric dams along the Tennessee River. At that time, timber was sawn in small portable sawmills. Avery Littrell, II, attended Auburn University until he was called to serve his country during World War II. When he returned from the war, he came back to Decatur to run the family business. In those days, Mrs. Littrell was an integral component of Littrell Lumber as well. The sawmill is located in Decatur, Alabama, where four of Avery and Melba’s children continue to own and operate the mill today.

Lowery Pulpwood, Inc/James R. Lowery Endowed Memorial Scholarship in Forestry

James Lowery moved his family to rural Alabama in the 1960s. With no prior experience, he began a small pulpwood operation with one used short wood truck and one chainsaw. With much perseverance and determination, he was able to gradually enlarge his business, finding it necessary to incorporate in 1984. Although he became a successful businessman, he was a low-key individual devoted to his family and referred to by his peers as hard working, honest and a “salt of the earth” type person. For these reasons, Lowery’s widow, Frances Lowery, chose to honor her husband’s memory by creating this scholarship.

Dwain G. Luce Family Endowed Scholarship in Forestry

This scholarship was endowed by the Dwain G. Luce family of Mobile, Alabama, in 1996. Luce, a 1938 API chemical engineering graduate, worked in his chosen field until World War II began. After serving his country in the Army, Luce, a Normandy Veteran, began work with a bank as a loan officer specializing in timberland purchases. As a private landowner, Luce decided to purchase and manage timberland as an investment upon retirement. His granddaughter, Sarah Luce Watkins, graduated with a Master of Forestry degree from our School in 1999 and helps manage the family land.

Martin Family Endowed Scholarship

James W. Martin is a native of Centreville, Alabama, and holds a BS and MS from Auburn University in Forestry. Jim joined American Can Company in 1968 following a two-year stint in the Army as a plant physiologist, where he conducted defoliation research. He worked for American Can Company and its successor, Primerica Corporation for 20 years, during which time he held positions as Staff Management Forester for Southern Woodlands; Supervisor of Wood Procurement for Southern Woodlands; Corporate Coordinator for Woodlands-Sawmills Operations in Greenwich, Conn.; Manager of Western Woodlands and Sawmills in Halsey, Ore.; Operations Manager for Resource Planning and Harvesting for Southern Woodlands; and Director od Southern Forests Operations. Jim ultimately retired as Vice President of Market Relations with Canal Industries after serving as President of Canal Wood Corporation of Mississippi.

Jim is a past board member and executive committee member of the Southern Forest Products Association, and past chairman of the Woodbasket Chapter of the Society of American Foresters. Jim served as a member of the Southern Industrial Forestry Research Committee and is a past president of the Alabama Forestry Association. Jim has served as Executive Committee Chairman of N.C. State Fertilizer Co-Op. He chaired the Advisory Council for the Auburn University School of Forestry and Wildlife Sciences and served on the school’s Development Committee. Jim received the 2000 Award of Excellence from the Southeastern Society of American Foresters. He was recognized as the 1998 Outstanding Alumnus of the Auburn University School of Forestry. Jim is active in First Baptist Church of Tuscaloosa, where he serves as a Sunday School teacher.

This endowment is established in honor of William Roy Martin and James William Martin ’64.

Lane Messer Summer Practicum Endowed Scholarship

Lane Messer, affectionately known by students as “Ms. Lane,” worked at Auburn for over 23 years as Secretary to the Student Services Office in the College of Forestry, Wildlife & Environment. Ms. Lane helped the students with scholarship applications, class schedules, and club activities. Upon her retirement in 2012, the alumni, professors and students honored her with a scholarship in her name. In 2023, this endowment was established by her family, friends and former students. Ms. Lane hopes this scholarship will help enrich and bless the lives of those who receive it for many years to come.

Pierce and Becky Miller Ever Auburn Endowed Scholarship

Pierce Miller, a 2008 wildlife sciences major, and his wife, Becky, a 2006 alumna, established this scholarship for students majoring in wildlife and wildlife enterprise management with the purpose of assisting students in these majors who exhibit a financial need. Ever Auburn Scholarships are meant to support Auburn students in all ways where affordability is a barrier to access, opportunity and the full Auburn experience.

Molpus Woodlands Group Annual Scholarship

Molpus Woodlands Group (Molpus) is one of the oldest timber-related companies in the United States and has expertise in many fields, including accounting, business, forestry, GIS and legal. Molpus currently manages over 1.7 million acres of timberland investments in 15 states, including Alabama. Molpus created this scholarship in 2023 for the purpose of supporting its stated goals of encouraging interest in forestry management and attracting diversity to the next generation of professionals within the company and industry.

Dan Moultrie Wildlife Scholarship

Dan Moultrie, a Birmingham native, graduated from Auburn University in 1979 with a degree in business administration. Dan has deep roots within the hunting and wildlife industry as the founder of Moultrie feeders and game cameras, the number one selling brand of game feeders and cameras in the United States. Dan serves on various boards and committees throughout Alabama and the nation, including the State of Alabama Conservation and Natural Resources Foundation and, most notably, the State of Alabama Department of Conservation Advisory Board, where he has served as chairman since 2003.

Natural Resources Annual Scholarship

The Natural Resources Management major was established in the CFWE in 2012. This major allows students to specialize in a wide range of topics spanning ecological, social and physical aspects of wildland ecosystems. Because students gain broad natural resources knowledge, they are able to create sustainable solutions at local, national and global scales. This scholarship was established by Richard Hall ’95 in 2015 to reward an outstanding student who has chosen to pursue their major in this field.

Nichols Family Endowed Scholarship in Forestry

To honor his passion for forestry and to give back to his alma mater, Ken Nichols established a scholarship for forestry students in 1997. After gaining experience at forest products corporations such as Buckeye and MacMillan Bloedel in the United States and Canada, Nichols joined Champion International in 1972, where he rose to Vice-Chairman and Executive Officer during his 28-year tenure. Ken and his wife, Joanna, retired back in his home place near Selma in 2001.

Allen M. Pearson Endowed Scholarship

Dr. Allen M. Pearson received his B.S. from Alabama Polytechnic Institute in 1931, his M.S. from Iowa State University in 1932, and a Ph.D. in Entomology from the University of Delaware in 1936. Dr. Pearson had a long career in extension and teaching at Auburn University and co-wrote Alabama’s first brochure on doves after pioneering banding studies as part of API’s Cooperative Research Unit. He was a charter member of the Alabama Chapter of the Wildlife Society. This scholarship was established in his memory by his daughter, Ann Pearson.

Henry and Elizabeth Posey Endowed Scholarship in Forestry and Wildlife

Dr. Henry Posey was a well-respected faculty member who served as a professor of forestry from 1950-1978. He is remembered mostly for his work with students. In addition to being the academic advisor and personal confidante to most of the students who graduated in forestry during his tenure, Posey also served as faculty advisor to the local chapter of Xi Sigma Pi, the national forestry honor society and as a national forester (president) of Xi Sigma Pi from 1964-66. This scholarship supports outstanding students in forestry.

Lt. Harry Prince, United States ARMY, Memorial Endowed Scholarship

This permanent endowment is established in the Auburn University Foundation by Dr. and Mrs. Thomas W. Fell, Jr., Mr. Elmo Ziebach and other alumni and friends for the purpose of providing scholarships for students in the College of Forestry, Wildlife and Environment. Harry Gordon Prince, Jr. attended Auburn University from 1965 through 1969 and graduated with a degree in Forestry. Upon graduation from Auburn, Harry was commissioned as an Officer in the United States Army through participation in Advanced Army ROTC. He also served on the Auburn Rifle Team. First Lieutenant Prince served as Commander of a Combat Engineering Unit being assigned to the 59th Land Clearing Company, 59TH ENG CO, 39TH ENG BN, 45TH ENG GROUP, 18TH ENG BDE, USARV ENG CMD, USARV in Quang Tri Province, South Vietnam. He was wounded in Vietnam and passed away on March 14, 1971, as a result of his injuries.

Resource Management Service Annual Scholarship

In order to increase the level of diversity in the forest industry, Resource Management Service has created this scholarship to alleviate the financial burden of pursuing a college education. In 1950, John M. Bradley, a young Yale University graduate, partnered with Harry E. Murphy, a graduate of Pennsylvania State University, to create Resource Management Service. From its beginnings as a consulting firm to private landowners, RMS capitalized on changing industry dynamics and proved itself as an important timberland management and acquisitions firm. By advancing the state of the art in timberland investment management, RMS has grown into an accomplished global firm with assets under management in North and South America, Asia and Oceania, while remaining a private, employee-owned company.

James W. Richardson Endowed Scholarship in Forestry

Jim Richardson was born in Banks, Alabama, on August 9, 1919. He was called into active service in the U.S. Navy during World War II. Upon discharge from the Navy, Jim enrolled in the new forestry school at Auburn University and graduated in 1949. Jim was married to Irene and was the father of James Edward and Sarah Anne. He was a rare individual who took pride in his job, his family and his community. To honor him, the wood dealers created this scholarship to acknowledge their trust and friendship with Jim upon his retirement at Great Southern Paper Company in 1984.

Rooke Family Scholarship in Forestry or Forest Engineering

The Rooke Family Scholarship in Forestry was created in 2008 by Ben M. Rooke, Jr. and Diane Rooke to honor their Rooke family name. Rooke graduates of Auburn University include: Ben M. Rooke, Jr. ‘65/Forestry Management, Angelia Rooke Michell ’96/Management Information, Ben M. Rooke III ‘92/Building Science, Matthew G. Rooke ‘08/Exercise Science, Kenny A. Rooke ‘70/Aerospace Engineering and Sharon Henderson Rooke ‘69/General Education, and Robert Warren Rooke ’63/Chemistry.

Russell Lands Annual Scholarship in Forestry

Russell Lands of Alexander City created an annual award for forestry students in 1983. Because Russell Lands believes in giving back to the community, the company has provided scholarship funds for the College’s forestry students. Russell Lands owns more than 44,000 acres near Lake Martin.

William F. Sahlie Endowed Memorial Scholarship in Forestry

The Sahlie children established this scholarship in memory of their dad, William Finley Sahlie. Although Sahlie graduated from the University of Florida, he became involved with Auburn’s School of Forestry after his career led him to settle in Wetumpka. It was there that he began Bama Wood in 1963. Sahlie also started Saco Wood and Southern Trucking Company, both based in Prattville. He sold all three businesses in the early 1990s. Sahlie had high expectations for the College and was instrumental in seeing that the program received designation as a “school” in 1984. His involvement led to his appointment as Chairman of the College’s Advisory Council.

Katherine Owen Sechrist Endowed Scholarship

Katherine Owen Sechrist was born in Fort Payne and has lived her whole life in Alabama. She graduated with honors from Auburn University, earning a degree in Secondary Education. Katherine loves the outdoors and the abundance of nature that Alabama has to offer. Because she also recognizes the importance of properly stewarding these natural resources, Katherine was inspired to create a scholarship to support students who are pursuing careers in natural resource professions.

Peter J. Smith Endowed Scholarship

Peter “PJ” Smith, 21, was a student at Auburn University majoring in wildlife enterprise management when his life was tragically cut short in a motor vehicle accident in January 2021. From his early childhood, PJ loved wildlife and the outdoors. PJ started his “official career” in wildlife at the Kreher Preserve and Nature Center, where he spent every summer as a camper or counselor. It was rare to find PJ inside if there was fun to be had outside, and he loved hiking in the mountains with his dog or target shooting with friends. When he first enrolled in software engineering left him feeling unfulfilled, and the wildlife enterprise management major was established, PJ felt like it was created with him in mind. The staff and student counselors believed in him, and he thrived in the program. PJ lived life to the fullest, and he loved hard. He was a giving person, never turning down a friend in need. He loved all things nature, riding motorcycles, his golden retrievers and spending time with friends. This scholarship was established to help other students fulfill their love of nature through a degree in wildlife enterprise management.

Gaines Smith Endowed Scholarship

This endowment was established in 2007 by the Alabama Association of Conservation Districts Auxiliary for the purpose of providing scholarships for students in the College of Agriculture, the College of Forestry, Wildlife and Environment and Agricultural Science Education. The Alabama Association of Conservation Districts, organized in August 1943, is a nonprofit, nongovernmental organization of the 67 Soil and Water Conservation Districts in Alabama. The association serves as a vehicle for unified action by districts, exchange of information, and discussion of issues.

Smurfit WestRock Annual Scholarship

The WestRock scholarship was created in 2014 to recognize a deserving student majoring in forest engineering or forest management. Anchored in thoughtful actions and values, WestRock continues to make an ongoing, positive difference in the communities in which its employees live, work, and play. Through partnering with local organizations, WestRock is helping to drive growth and quality of life; investing in future generations through educational giving; and doing its part for the environment to advance the knowledge and conservation of nature.

Stella-Jones Corporation Annual Scholarship

Stella-Jones is a leading North American manufacturer of pressure-treated wood products. The Company serves many of North America’s largest railroads, telecom providers and electrical transmission utilities. Stella-Jones also provides a range of ancillary services to its railway customers and produces treated wood for the residential and industrial marketplaces. This scholarship is offered to deserving juniors and seniors in the College of Forestry, Wildlife and Environment pursuing a degree in forestry or forest engineering.

H. Christoph Stuhlinger Endowed Fund for Excellence in Urban Forestry

Originally from Huntsville, Alabama, Chris Stuhlinger received his B.S. in Forest Management from Auburn University in 1980 and M.S. in Forestry from Louisiana State University (LSU) in 1983. Chris worked at LSU for several years as a research associate in forestry, assisting with tree physiology and silviculture research. He then joined the Maryland Department of Natural Resources Forest Service as a watershed and county forester, working with rural landowners, and as an urban forester working with schools, communities, towns and cities in the Baltimore area for over 16 years. In 2003, Chris joined the University of Arkansas Division of Agriculture as the University System Forester. He was responsible for the sustainable management of the university’s 13,400 acres of forestry statewide and conducted applied forestry and extension responsibilities. He retired in 2018 and returned to Huntsville. Chris established this scholarship to encourage students to include and emphasize urban forestry in their curriculum of study.

Walker Herring Taylor Endowed Scholarship

This scholarship is awarded in conjunction with the Spirit of Auburn program, in memory of Walker Herring Taylor. Taylor was born in Henderson, N.C., but spent most of his life in Charlotte, N.C., before attending Auburn University. He died while still a student, kayaking on the Tallapoosa River in Tallassee, Ala. On May 14, 2010, Auburn University awarded a posthumous degree from the College of Forestry, Wildlife and Environment to Walker’s family. In establishing this scholarship, his classmates and family hope to provide the same rich experience that Walker enjoyed while a student of forestry at Auburn.

Emmett F. Thompson Endowed Scholarship in Forestry

This scholarship/fellowship was created in 1998 by a gift from Harry E. Murphy to honor Emmett F. Thompson on his retirement from Auburn University. The original endowment has been increased by additional gifts from Dr. and Mrs. Thompson and others. Thompson came to Auburn in 1977 as head of the Department of Forestry in the School of Agriculture. In 1984, he was instrumental in the establishment of a separate School of Forestry. He served as the first dean of the newly created school until his retirement in 1998. Thompson was elected a fellow in the Society of American Foresters in 1984, inducted into the Alabama Foresters’ Hall of Fame in 1994, and named a distinguished alumnus by the Oklahoma State University College of Agriculture and Natural Resources in 1999.

Thompson Family Endowed Scholarship

This endowed scholarship, which is in conjunction with the Spirit of Auburn scholarship program, was established by Emmett and ViAnn Thompson to honor their family and to encourage students to consider forestry as a field of study and as a career choice. During his tenure at Auburn, Dr. Thompson was involved in establishing the University’s Solon Dixon Forestry Education Center, as well as the elevation of forestry from departmental to school status.

Toomer’s Oak Leadership Award

This endowment was established by the Dean of the College of Forestry, Wildlife and Environment on behalf of the Auburn University Forestry Club, Auburn University Wildlife Society, and the College of Forestry, Wildlife and Environment Student Government Association to provide awards to students in the College of Forestry, Wildlife and Environment who have demonstrated leadership in the Toomer’s Oak student project.

Robert Tufts Endowed Scholarship

The Tufts Scholarship was endowed by an anonymous donor to honor Robert Tufts and his years of service to the College of Forestry, Wildlife and Environment. Tufts began his career at Auburn in 1979. His teaching appointment includes classes in estate planning, environmental law, real property law, forest surveying, taxation of timber and other natural resources. He received a Juris Doctorate Degree in 1996 and completed a Master of Laws in 2005 from the University of Alabama.

Doris Bass Tyler Endowed Scholarship

Doris Bass Tyler was born in Andalusia, Alabama, on February 18, 1932, and graduated from Andalusia High School in 1950. She immediately began her career in the business world, progressing from an office assistant to manager and executive secretary. In 1967, she was employed by Charles Dixon and Company and remained with the Dixon family’s timber and farming businesses until her retirement from the Dixon Family Partnership in 2001. It was through Solon Dixon and Charles Dixon that she came to understand their commitment to timber and natural resources, and to see Mr. Solon’s vision of educating future generations to preserve these precious resources. Doris was invited to serve as a director of the Solon and Martha Dixon Foundation/ Gunter Dixon Foundation boards in 1998. As a director, she was elected to the Office of Secretary, and in September 2001, she was nominated and elected to represent the Foundation as its President. Steadfast, Doris sought to achieve Mr. Solon’s purposes and objectives as detailed in the Foundation’s articles of incorporation. Her service as President of the Foundation extended from September 2001 to June 30, 2022, and today, she continues her service as a director.

Noll A. Van Cleave Endowed Scholarship in Forestry

This scholarship was created in 1990 by the late Noll Allen Van Cleave of Columbus, Ga. Van Cleave, a 1950 forestry graduate, was a well-respected wood dealer and a member of the School’s Advisory Council. Van Cleave received the School of Forestry Outstanding Alumnus Award in 1986. Noll A. Van Cleave is remembered as a highly resourceful businessman with wide-ranging interests and a broad circle of friends from all walks of life. His abiding creed was, “You can do anything if you stick with it.” These words are as much a testament to the present generation of forestry students as they were to the forestry graduate of 1950.

James D. Wadsworth Endowed Scholarship

James D. Wadsworth was born and raised in Tuskegee, Alabama, and graduated from Auburn University in 1972 with a degree in Mechanical Engineering. He grew up working on a farm in Macon County, raising cattle, building fences, baling hay and performing other farm chores. Growing up on a farm and throughout life, Wadsworth has always enjoyed observing the plants and animals of the natural world. He created this scholarship with the goal of helping students build on their appreciation of our natural heritage and to protect these special places for future generations.

Imogene Thornell Walker Memorial Alumni Endowed Student Scholarship

The Imogene Thornell Walker Memorial Alumni Endowment was established by Dr. Lenore Thomas Ealy ‘83 and John T. Thomas to benefit a student with a declared major in Forestry or Forest Engineering. This memorial scholarship honors the life of Imogene Thornell Walker, who epitomized the virtues of an Auburn woman as depicted in the Auburn Creed. Imogene’s husband, Lewis B. Walker, graduated from Auburn in 1952 with a B.S. degree in Forestry. Lewis and Imogene resided in Columbiana for over 50 years, where Lewis owned and operated a pulpwood business and later consulted in the forestry business. Imogene was a voracious reader, was always up on current events, was a domestic general in the kitchen, loved to laugh and cheer for Auburn teams. The purpose of this scholarship is to foster future foresters who will cultivate the beauty, health, cultural and economic assets of our country’s trees and forests.

L. M. and Mary Ware Endowed Scholarship in Forestry

This scholarship is supported by an endowment from the L.M. and Mary Hall Ware Trust Fund. Dr. Ware, the university’s leading horticulturist for many years, is credited as the father of forestry at Auburn. Under his leadership, the joint Department of Horticulture/Forestry was created in 1946.

L. M. and Mary Ware Endowed Scholarship in Forestry

Watters Family Endowed Scholarship in Forestry

This scholarship was created by Julian Watters of Butler, Ala., in 1980. Watters, a graduate of the University of Alabama and a member of Sigma Nu social fraternity, supported Auburn because he believed in forestry education. Watters’ vast timberland holdings compelled him to ensure that strong students would continue to be educated to assist landowners with the management of their timberland.

James M. Wells, Sr. Endowed Memorial Scholarship in Forestry

James Marcus Wells was born Feb. 29, 1896, in Bostic, N.C. Wells worked in the forest industry with Lattimore Lumber Company and Doggett Lumber Company, both in North Carolina, before owning his own company, J.M. Wells Lumber Company in Columbus, Ga. Although times were difficult during the Great Depression, Wells valued education and made certain that his children received a college education. For this reason, his daughters, Juanita Wells Hearn and Sharleen Formby Rhoads, created this scholarship in their dad’s memory in 1977.

The Westervelt Foundation/Beth Thorne Stukes Ever Auburn Endowed Scholarship

The Westervelt Company has a long history of sustainability, environmental responsibility, and quality, and that has not changed. Today, they focus on businesses that sustain our natural resources for the future. The Westervelt Company is a steward of the land. Together with Beth Thorne Stukes, The Westervelt Company established this endowed scholarship to help alleviate the financial barriers to higher natural resource education for the next generation of exceptional Auburn University students.

Weyerhaeuser Giving Fund/Jim Leist Memorial Endowed Scholarship

The Weyerhaeuser Giving Fund established this scholarship in memory of longtime employee Jim Leist, a 1982 graduate in forest engineering from Auburn University. Jim was employed for 32 years with the Weyerhaeuser Company and served in the role of director of marketing for Southern Timberlands until his death. He was a mentor to others; his love for learning led him to become a Crown Financial Ministries leader and a Certified Covey Facilitator. The boards and associations on which he served included the Weyerhaeuser PAC Board, the Auburn University Forestry School Advisory Board and several forestry associations. Jim was a registered forester for the states of Alabama, Mississippi and Oklahoma.

Mayford Daniel Williams ’54 Endowed Scholarship

Mayford Daniel Williams attended Auburn University from 1950 through 1954, graduating with a degree in Forestry. Mr. Williams was born and raised in Lenoir City, Tenn., where he graduated from high school in 1941. Following the United States’ entry into World War II that year, he volunteered to join the U.S. Navy. He spent 1942 through 1945 aboard the USS Biloxi, which saw much action in the South Pacific, including the Iwo Jima landing.

Following World War II, Mr. Williams attended Auburn with the help of the GI Bill, the first in his family to attend college. After graduating from Auburn, he took a position with the Tennessee Department of Agriculture Division of Forestry, where he worked and lived as a state forester for 15 years near Greeneville, Tenn. In 1969, he took a position in private industry managing the timberland in middle Tennessee owned by Willamette Corporation (subsequently purchased by Weyerhaeuser); he lived with his family in Centerville, Tenn., during this time. In 1980, he moved to Cullman, Ala., and established a forestry consulting service where he worked until his retirement.

Mr. Williams’ lifelong passion for the outdoors influenced his career choice and hobbies. He was infinitely happier cruising timber than doing the office work required in his position. He grew up quail hunting and fishing in his spare time – interests that he maintained throughout his life. He was well known for his ability to grow anything, from thousands of acres of timberland to prize-winning tomatoes, irises and roses.

Mr. Williams married the late Inez Dyar of Hamilton, Ala., in 1947. They were married until her death in 1992. They had one daughter, Dr. Beverly Williams Danley of Germantown, Tenn., also an Auburn graduate. He was married to the late Estelle Keim of Cullman, Ala., from 1993 until her death in 2011; from that marriage, he gained a stepson, Dan H. Keim, also an Auburn graduate.

Mr. Williams loved Auburn University and supported it throughout his life. He loved attending Auburn football games and, when unable to attend in person, vigorously cheered for the Tigers on Saturdays from home. A descendant Samford Oak tree named in his honor graces the walkway of Samford Park, the naming ceremony occurring nine days before his death in September 2016. This scholarship, which is established in his memory by his family, will continue his legacy of support and love for Auburn in perpetuity. He felt his Auburn education changed his life, and it would be his wish for an Auburn education to be as impactful in the recipient’s life as it was in his own.

Summer Practicum Scholarships

Wildlife Summer Practicum Annual Scholarship

This scholarship was established in 2017 to benefit a Wildlife student by assisting with tuition expenses and supplies related to the Wildlife Summer Practicum in the College of Forestry, Wildlife and Environment.

James R. Taylor Endowed Scholarship

The James R. Taylor Endowed Scholarship in the College of Forestry, Wildlife and Environment was established by Richard and Millicent Teugh in 1996 to support an annual award in Forestry.

Summer Practicum Scholarships

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