Indiana State University receives gift in support of William H. Harader Memorial Scholarship

Indiana State University has received a $100,000 gift from the late Dr. William Harader’s wife to fund the William H. Harader Memorial Scholarship, which was established after his passing to support students in political science. Mrs. Harader is an alumna of Indiana State University, and Dr. Harader taught political science at the university until his death in 1988.

According to an article on Indiana State University’s website, Andrea Angel, who serves as the Vice President of the Division of University Advancement and as the CEO of the Indiana State University Foundation, was quoted as saying of Mrs. Harader’s gift, “Through the continued support of political science students, this scholarship removes financial barriers for Sycamores and expands opportunities for growth. This gift helps sustain this scholarship as a pathway to education and success for our students and we are deeply grateful for her support.”

William Harader specialized in American Government and Public Administration and served as the director of the university’s Center for Governmental Services. He served as a representative in the Indiana Association of Cities and Towns’ Intergovernmental Personnel Project and advised many students on their master’s theses. He taught at the university from 1969 to 1988. Mrs. Harader earned two degrees from Indiana State University: a bachelor’s degree in biology in 1961 and a master’s degree in microbiology in 1973. She spent her career in science education.

Speaking of her late husband, Mrs. Harader said, “Bill was profoundly involved with Indiana State and cared deeply about political science and student success. It is my hope that this gift will carry forward his legacy by supporting students in their pursuit of academic and professional excellence.”

The William H. Harader Memorial Scholarship was established in 1992 and is awarded to students with high achievement in the political science major. Students must have completed five semesters of schooling at Indiana State University, have completed at least 12 credit hours in political science, have the highest GPA in their cohort, and must not have earned other scholarships or financial aid through the political science department.

Dr. Matt Bergbower, who serves as the Chairperson of the Department of Political Science, said, "This scholarship has come to represent the highest level of achievement in our political science program, recognizing academic excellence and honoring Dr. Harader’s dedication to public service. We are proud to regularly award a scholarship that embodies the values the department seeks to instill in its students.”

Indiana State University President Mike Godard added, “This memorial scholarship reflects a commitment to education, civic responsibility, and student success. By supporting students studying political science, this gift helps prepare thoughtful leaders and engaged citizens who will make a meaningful difference in their communities and beyond.”

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