Austin Peay State University alumna establishes endowment for students in honors program

Austin Peay State University honors program students will have access to support from a new endowment established by alumna Tracy Barbour. The Rev. Clifford and Mrs. Ollie Mae Griffith Memorial Endowment has been named in memory of Barbour’s parents and will assist at least two honors program students per year who partake in community service and volunteer opportunities. 

According to an article on Austin Peay State University’s website, Tracy Barbour was quoted as saying of the endowment, “Faith in God, helping others, and higher education were fundamental values that my parents, Rev. Clifford and Mrs. Ollie Mae Griffith, lived by throughout their lives. Although neither of my parents finished high school or attended college themselves, they were always adamant about the importance of education for their children. This endowment honors their legacy by supporting students who share that same commitment to serving others."

Barbour received her graduate degree from APSU in 2005. In addition to her parents’ commitment to education, Barbour herself has remained committed to helping people achieve their educational goals. She operated Horizon Scholarship Services, a free mentoring service that helped students find scholarships, for 15 years. Many individuals who themselves received help through Horizon Scholarship Services have now contributed their own gifts to this endowment.

Kris Phillips, the university’s Vice President for Alumni, Engagement and Philanthropy, said, "This gift from Tracy Barbour exemplifies how alumni and supporters can create lasting legacies that align with their personal values while enhancing the Govs For Life Experience. By supporting students who demonstrate a commitment to service, this endowment not only honors the memory of Rev. and Mrs. Griffith but also encourages the next generation to embrace the importance of giving back to their communities."

In order to be eligible for the scholarship, students must be active members of the APSU Honors Program and have a grade point average of at least 2.5. Students must demonstrate financial need. As part of their application, students must submit a short essay detailing their community service and volunteering experiences and explain why community service is important.

For more information about Austin Peay State University, visit the school’s website.