In This Section:

Endowed Scholarships

Martha Duff Adkerson Scholarship - Established by Susan A. Dismukes and Sandra A. Malone to honor their late mother. The award is made to incoming freshmen with a high school Grade Point Average (GPA) of at least 3.0 on a 4.0 scale. The award is renewable to recipients maintaining a 2.8 GPA and making normal progress toward a degree as a full time student.

Imogene Bradley Ahles Memorial Scholarship - The award is made to a junior or senior business major with an overall Grade Point Average (GPA) of 3.00 or higher who demonstrates a balanced, well-rounded academic and extracurricular educational experience. The scholarship was established in 1993, by Judge Rodney V. Ahles, LL.B. 1958, in memory of Mrs. Ahles, B.A. 1946, who served Cumberland University in various administrative roles for approximately fifty (50) years.

Victor C. Ahles Memorial Scholarship - Established by Judge Rodney V. Ahles, LL.B. 1958 in honor of his father, this scholarship is awarded to a junior or senior pre-law student with a cumulative Grade Point Average (GPA) of 2.50 or higher, based on all course work taken at the collegiate level.

G.W. and Annie B. Robinson Alexander; H.W. Grannis and W.J. Grannis Scholarship - This scholarship will be awarded to a descendent of the above named individuals and is renewable until the student graduates from Cumberland University. In lieu of such an applicant, it may be given to a resident of Wilson County who is physically handicapped. The recipient of this scholarship must maintain good academic standing with Cumberland University for the scholarship to be renewed.

Charles Wood Arnold Scholarship - Cumberland officials are designated to distribute this award to young men and women of Wilson County who are worthy of assistance and who are unable to obtain financial assistance otherwise. The scholarship was established by the estate of Mr. Arnold, a Wilson County, Tennessee farmer and friend of the University.

William Donnell Baird Scholarship - Honoring the late State Senator, Lieutenant Governor, and Speaker of the House of Representatives of the State of Tennessee , this scholarship is awarded to a deserving Cumberland University student.  Mr. Baird was an alumnus (B.A. 1930, LL.B. 1931) of the University.

Alma and Fannie Baird Scholarship - The late Senator William Donnell Baird established this scholarship in memory of his mother, Fannie Baird, and wife, Alma Counts Baird. The awards are need-based and awarded to deserving young men and women of Wilson County, Tennessee. Transfer students must have a minimum 2.00 cumulative Grade Point Average (GPA), and entering freshmen must also have an eighteen (18) on the ACT.

 Earl F. and Allie Coe Baker Endowed Scholarship - Mrs. Allie Coe Baker established this scholarship to assist students from Watertown High School (Tennessee) further their education.  The scholarship shall be awarded based upon the apllicant's scholastic and academic abilities as well as financial need.  Selection will be made in conjunction with Watertown High School Faculty who will recommend recipients each year.  The late Mrs. Baker was a beloved teacher in Wilson County Schools for 46 years.

 Leonard J. Ballard Memorial Scholarship - This scholarship was established by Dr. Ray Farley in memory of his brother.  Mr. Ballard was a businessman and long-time resident of Lebanon, Tennessee.  Recipients shall be full-time undergraduate students pursuing a bachelor's degree within the School of Business and Technology.  Preference is given to students from Wilson and Smith Counties within Tennessee.

Earl Young Barbour Memorial Scholarship - Recipient must be the highest academically ranked football player at the University from either Wilson or Putnam County , Tennessee with a Grade Point Average (GPA) of at least 2.80, must be a returning member of the football squad, and must be recommended by the head football coach and Athletic Director of the University. Mr. Barbour, a football player and 1948 graduate of Cumberland University , was a successful furniture manufacturer. The Scholarship was established in his memory by his widow, Mrs. Peggy Barbour.

Paul M. Bauman Endowed Scholarship - This scholarship is awarded first to children of employees of the John Deal Company, then to the employees of the John Deal Company, and finally to a graduate of the Mt. Juliet High School. Recipient must be an incoming freshman with a minimum ACT score of nineteen (19) and a high school Grade Point Average (GPA) of at least 3.00 on a 4.00 scale. This scholarship was established in 1997 by Judy Bauman in memory of her husband, a Cumberland University Board of Trust Member.

Margaret Elizabeth Wilson Beasley Endowed Scholarship - The award is made to a graduating senior of Smith County (TN) High School or Gordonsville (TN) High School who has earned a minimum of 3.25 Grade Point Average (GPA) on a scale of 4.00. The recipient must be recommended by the Cumberland University Financial Aid Director and be approved by the recipient's high school principal. Preference is made to a student who plans to major in education. The scholarship in honor of Mrs. Beasley, who attended Cumberland University in 1931, was established in 1995 by her children, Thomas Wilson Beasley, Mary Elizabeth Beasley Enoch, Alma Katherine Beasley Parker, and Lewis Cass Beasley, Jr.

Reid and Margaret Midgett Bobo Scholarship - This scholarship was established by Ms. Susan P. Lott, niece, at Mrs. Bobo's request.  The Bobo's were lifelong residents of Wilson County, Tennessee.  The scholarship is based on need and shall be awarded for no more than eight (8) semesters to any one student.  The recipient shall have a minimum high school grade point average (GPA) of 3.0 based on a 4.0 scale.  The award will remain intact as long as the recipient maintains a minimum GPA of 2.80.

Lowell Afton Bogle Endowed Scholarship - This award is given to a deserving resident of Wilson County, Tennessee who has a minimum high school Grade Point Average (GPA) of 2.50 on a 4.00 scale. This award is need-based and will be made for no more than eight (8) semesters to any particular student. The scholarship was established in 2000 through the generosity of the Bogle family and Lowell Afton Bogle. Mr. Bogle always enjoyed helping others, and this endowed scholarship fulfills his desire to help students pursue their dream of a college education.

James Lafayette Bomar, Jr. Scholarship - This scholarship, honoring the late State Senator, Lieutenant Governor, and Speaker of the House of Representatives of the State of Tennessee , is awarded to a Cumberland junior or senior who has displayed a balanced, well-rounded academic and extracurricular educational experience. In addition, the recipient must demonstrate a cumulative Grade Point Average (GPA) of 3.00 or higher and a yearning for knowledge and awareness in his/her chosen area of study.

Robert Carver Bone, M.D. Endowed Scholarship - This scholarship, honoring Dr. Bone for his twenty-two years of outstanding service as Chairman of the Board of Trust, is awarded to a pre-professional major who has a need and attained a high school Grade Point Average (GPA) of 3.5 on a 4.0 scale and has an ACT score of 25 or more. The award can be made for no more than eight (8) semesters and the student must maintain a 3.5 GPA to continue to receive the scholarship.

Bradley Memorial Family Scholarship - The recipient shall be a full-time junior or senior elementary education major with a minimum GPA of 3.00 and who has displayed a balanced, well-rounded academic and extracurricular educational experience. The scholarship is need-based.

Jim and Martha Bradshaw Endowed Scholarship - This award is available to a full time student majoring in nursing, and is renewable. Recipient must maintain a Grade Point Average (GPA) of 3.00 and reside in Wilson County, Tennessee. This Scholarship was established by Dr. James C. and Martha Bradshaw in 1997. Dr. Bradshaw is a practicing physician in Lebanon, Tennessee, and Mrs. Bradshaw is a member of the Cumberland University Board of Trust.

 Lillian P. Bryan and Lucille Phillips Davis Endowed Scholarship - Established by Mrs. Lillian P. Bryan, preference is given to applicants from Watertown, Tennessee, and secondarily to applicants from Wilson County, Tennessee, or other applications at the discretion of the University.  Scholarships may be awarded to students preparing to be nurses or teachers in elementary school.

General Howard F. Butler Scholarship - The recipient shall be a full-time Cumberland University student who has displayed strong leadership qualities, a yearning for knowledge, and awareness in the area of academic study he/she has chosen to pursue. The scholarship was established in 1990 by the friends of the late General Butler, a 1934 graduate of the Cumberland University School of Law. Serving more than twenty (20) years in the United States Air Force and the Tennessee National Guard, General Butler was also a practicing attorney in Nashville , Tennessee , and a Life Trustee of Cumberland University until his death in 1992.

Castle Heights Military Academy Scholarship - The donors specify that preference be given to Castle Heights Military Academy alumni and/or their children. Available to both undergraduate and graduate level students. Financial need shall not be the sole determining factor. The representatives of the CHMA Alumni Association review the applicants and make recommendations on the recipients.

Blanche Catron Music and Arts Endowed Scholarship - This endowed scholarship is awarded annually to a resident of Wilson County, Tennessee. The recipient of this tuition-only scholarship must have an entering grade point average of 3.0 based on a 4.0 scale and must be pursuing an undergraduate degree in Music and the Arts. Mrs. Catron was awarded the Doctor of Humanities (honoris causa) from Cumberland University in 1998 and The Algernon Sydney Sullivan Award in 2001.

William Goodbar and Blanche P. Catron Endowed Scholarship - This endowed scholarship is awarded to a full-time student from Wilson County, Tennessee. The recipient must have a minimum ACT score of 20, a 3.00 Grade Point Average (GPA) on a 4.00 scale, and be pursuing a degree in Education. Mr. Catron graduated from Cumberland in 1926 and Mrs. Catron in 1936. Mr. Catron was a local businessman, pilot, and a member of the Tennessee Air National Guard. Mrs. Catron was awarded the Doctor of Humanities ( honoris causa) from Cumberland University in 1998 and The Algernon Sydney Sullivan Award in 2001.

James and Gay Chamberlain Scholarship - This scholarship was established in memory of Mrs. Gwendolyn McFarland of Lebanon, Tennessee by Mr. and Mrs. James Chamberlain. Mr. Chamberlain is an alumnus of Cumberland University, and Mrs. Chamberlain is the daughter of Mrs. McFarland. This scholarship is to be awarded annually to a full-time Cumberland University student from Wilson County, Tennessee majoring in music. To receive and retain the scholarship, the student must have and maintain a 2.50 grade point average (GPA). Mrs. McFarland was a supporter of the fine arts in the local Lebanon-Wilson County Community and at Cumberland University.

William Carl and Palmer P. Clark Scholarship - Established by Malinda J. Perrotta in memory of her parents. William Carl Palmer, a McMinnville native, graduated from Cumberland University in 1935 and later graduated from George Washington University School of Law and earned his Master of Arts degree in Business Administration. The scholarship is based on need and awarded to a pre-law student. The recipient must have a high school Grade Point Average (GPA) of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale. The scholarship is renewable if the recipient maintains a 2.8 GPA, makes normal progress toward a degree as a full time student and conducts himself or herself in an appropriate manner.

S. S. Chapman and Martha Pearl Close Scholarship - Given by S. S. Chapman in honor of his brother-in-law, Shelton Close, and his sister, Martha Pearl Close, this scholarship is awarded to a freshman student who resides in DeKalb County , Tennessee .

Frank G. Clement Memorial Scholarship - This award is made to high school graduates who exhibit the leadership and speaking abilities which marked the life of the late Governor of Tennessee, Frank G. Clement, and who have displayed a balanced, well-rounded academic and extracurricular educational experience.

Caroline Perry Cleveland and Mecca Ann Perry Scholarship - This scholarship will be awarded to current teachers under contract in local school systems who wish to return to Cumberland to earn the Master of Arts in Education degree. The funds will be divided among twenty (20) students annually. Mrs. Cleveland was a student at Cumberland University in the 1920s and later was a member of the University faculty. Miss Perry was a 1923 graduate of Cumberland University . The two sisters were teachers for many years. Their scholarship was funded by a bequest from Mrs. Cleveland's estate.

Dr. H. Bert Coble Endowed Scholarship - This scholarship is awarded to a student in any music discipline with a high school Grade Point Average (GPA) of 3.00 on a 4.00 scale and with a minimum ACT of 20 or an equivalent SAT score. The student must show outstanding performance ability and exemplary citizenship. The award may remain with the student as long as a 2.80 Grade Point Average (GPA) is maintained and the recipient remains a music major in good standing with the University. The award is available for a maximum of eight (8) semesters. Dr. Coble is a professor Emeritus at Cumberland University .

John W. Cooke, Jr. Scholarship - This scholarship was left to the University to honor the life of the late John W. Cooke, Jr., who served as Chief Clerk for the State Senate of the Tennessee General Assembly. A native of Davidson County , Tennessee and graduate of the public school system, Mr. Cooke served in various positions with state government prior to his appointment as Clerk.

Bascom and Alice Cooksey, Sr. Endowed Scholarship - This scholarship is awarded to an undergraduate student from Wilson County, Tennessee with a minimum entering ACT score of 20 or a high school grade point average of 2.5 or if enrolled at Cumberland or as a transfer student shall have a grade point average of 2.5 based on a 4.0 scale. 

Cumberland Merit Badge University Eagle Scout Scholarship Agreement - This scholarship was established with proceeds from the Cumberland Merit Badge University by the Middle Tennessee Council, Boy Scouts of Americ a. The scholarship will be awarded to a deserving high school graduate who is an Eagle Scout and enrolled full time. First consideration for students will given to scouts from the Walton Trail District, then Middle Tennessee Council, then scouts from across the nation. The scholarship may be renewed for a maximum of eight (8) semesters provided the student maintains a 3.0 Grade Point Average (GPA).

Audrah Dee Scholarship - Established by Ms. Karen Hardin in honor of her daughter, this scholarship is awarded to a junior or senior student majoring in Special Education. 

Digitar, Inc./Dixie Taylor Endowed Nursing Scholarship - The award is made to a Wilson or Trousdale County high school graduate who must be a full-time student in the Cumberland University Nursing Program. The recipient must plan to become an employee in the health care sector and must have attained the rank of junior.

John J. Duncan Scholarship - The award is made in memory of United States Representative John J. Duncan, Sr., a graduate of the Cumberland University School of Law, former mayor of the City of Knoxville, Tennessee, and a long time member of the United States Congress, representing the second district of Tennessee.

Margaret Freeman Farmer Scholarship - This scholarship is based on need and given to a student majoring in music or business who has displayed outstanding citizenship. The recipient must have a high school Grade Point Average (GPA) of 3.00 on a 4.00 scale and a minimum ACT score of 20 or an equivalent SAT score. The recipient may continue to receive the award if a 2.80 Grade Point Average (GPA) is maintained, shows normal progress towards graduation, and remains in good standing with the University. The award will not be given for more than eight (8) semesters. Mrs. Farmer was educated in the public schools of Lebanon , Tennessee through the eleventh (11th) grade. She attended Cumberland Preparatory School . Although she did not graduate from Cumberland , she had a continuing interest in institutional activities throughout her life.

Jimmie Wall Farris Scholarship - This scholarship is need-based and is awarded to a deserving Cumberland student. Mrs. Farris is a 1947 graduate of Cumberland University. The scholarship was established in her honor by her husband, William W. Farris, an Emeritus member of the Cumberland University Board of Trust.

Dallas Floyd Memorial Scholarship - Recipient shall be a full-time Cumberland student in need of financial assistance with a minimum 3.00 Grade Point Average (GPA) who has displayed a balanced, well-rounded academic and extracurricular educational experience. Mr. Floyd was a successful entrepreneur in the outdoor amusement business. The scholarship was established in his memory in 1991 by his children, Ann and J.D. Floyd, and Billy and Jane Floyd Baxter.

Forrester Family Scholarship - Recipient shall be a full-time Cumberland University student with a minimum Grade Point Average (GPA) of 2.50 who has displayed a balanced, well-rounded academic and extracurricular educational experience. The scholarship was established in memory of Robert L. and Christine Forrester, who were the parents of Lieutenant General (Retired) Eugene P. Forrester and the grandparents of Eugene P. 'Chip" Forrester, II, a former member of the Cumberland University Board of Trust.

William Perkins Freeman Endowed Scholarship - This scholarship was given by Mr. Freeman, a lifelong friend and former student of Cumberland University.  The scholarship is need-based and awarded to a student from Robertson or Sumner Counties in Tennessee.  Recipient shall have a minimum high school grade point average (GPA) of 3.0 based on a 4.0 scale.

Benny Gamboa Endowed Scholarship - This scholarship will be given to an incoming freshman soccer player. The recipient must have an ACT score of at least eighteen (18) and a grade point average of at least 2.50 on a 4.00 scale. The scholarship may be renewed provided the recipient maintains a full-time student status and a GPA of at least 2.50 while enrolled at Cumberland University . Mr. Gamboa was a Cumberland University student and a member of the varsity soccer team at the time of his death in a traffic accident.

Stark Goodbar Scholarship - This scholarship is to be awarded to a graduate of Lebanon ( Tennessee ) High School who has demonstrated academic and leadership abilities. The student must demonstrate financial need. This scholarship was established in memory of Mr. Goodbar by his late wife, Susie. The Goodbars were long-time business people in Lebanon , Tennessee , operating a men's store on the town square.

Henry Goodpasture Endowed Scholarship - This endowed scholarship was established in 1993 by Henry Goodpasture, a 1921 graduate of Cumberland University School of Law and a long-time supporter of the University.

Lisa L. Graves Endowed Scholarship - This endowed tuition-only scholarship is awarded based on need to a sophomore, junior, or senior or combination student who resides in Wilson County, Tennessee.

William Edgar and Frances Duke Green Endowed Scholarship - This scholarship was established in memory of William Edgar and Frances Duke Green by their daughter Mrs. Frances Green Oliver. The recipient must be from Tennessee and have a high school grade point average of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale and/or a minimum ACT score of 20 or above, majoring in Humanities or Social Sciences (Liberal Arts Degree). The student must demonstrate financial need. The scholarship may be received for eight semesters as long as the student maintains full-time status and maintains a GPAof at least a 2.80 while enrolled at Cumberland University .

Amy Jo Byars Grissim Endowed Scholarship - This scholarship is to be awarded to a full-time pre-medicine or education major and is renewable if the recipient maintains full-time status and a 3.00 Grade Point Average (GPA).  Ms. Grissim was an elementary school teacher and taught many years in the Tenth (10th) Special School District in Lebanon , Tennessee . Her husband was a local farmer and businessman.

B.B. Gullett Scholarship - Established through the generosity of the B.B. Gullett Family, this scholarship is available to any student at Cumberland who has a Grade Point Average (GPA) of 3.00 or higher, is in the top half of their class and has an ACT score of 21 or higher. The recipients will be known as the Gullett Scholars and can be continued from year to year if the students maintain their academic standing with Cumberland University . Any students who continue to receive the above scholarship must reapply annually. This award will be given to students based on need as determined by the Financial Aid Office. Mr. Gullett was an attorney in Nashville , Tennessee , and partner in the law firm of Gullett, Sanford, Robinson, and Martin.

James C. Hatcher Memorial Scholarship - This scholarship was established in 1990 by friends of the Hatcher family in memory of Jimmy Hatcher, who was a supporter of Cumberland University and was dedicated to secondary and higher education in Wilson County . Mr. Hatcher taught and coached at Castle Heights Military Academy and at Mt. Juliet High School . The recipient of this award must be a Mt. Juliet High School graduating senior who meets Cumberland University 's admission standards.

William Randolph Hearst Endowed Scholarship - This endowed fund was established in 1999 by a grant from the William Randolph Hearst Foundation to provide scholarship support for professional study in undergraduate nursing. To be eligible for awards, students must be full-time with a declared major in nursing. Preference is given to students active in campus and community activities. Students selected for the Hearst Scholarships will be required to maintain a 2.80 Grade Point Average (GPA), with no grade lower than a "C" in any nursing course.

Heifner Family Endowed Scholarship - This scholarship is awarded annually to a full-time Cumberland junior or senior with a Grade Point Average (GPA) of 3.00 or higher and whose major is Humanities and Social Sciences. Preference is given to a student who is also minoring in philosophy/religion or anthropology. The scholarship was established in 1997 by Dr. Fred E. Heifner, Jr., faculty member in the School of Liberal Arts & Sciences, and his wife, JoAnn Farrington Heifner, in honor of their three (3) sons, John Kevin Heifner, Charles Todd Heifner, and Michael Brad Heifner.

June and Bill Heydel Fine Arts Endowed Scholarship - This scholarship was established to honor June and Bill Heydel for their dedication and support of the Fine Arts at Cumberland . It is awarded to a deserving full-time student who has a minimum ACT score of 20 and a Grade Point Average (GPA) of 2.75. The scholarship is renewable as long as the student maintains the above standards and is active in the Fine Arts program.

Edward L. & Aileen O. Jennings Scholarship - This award is given to an undergraduate student at Cumberland University who is worthy of assistance and unable to obtain financial assistance otherwise. The recipient must have a minimum Grade Point Average (GPA) of 2.50.

Arah George Bradley King Memorial Scholarship - This scholarship was established in 1990 by Judge and Mrs. Rodney V. Ahles in memory of Mrs. Ahles' sister. Awarded annually to a Cumberland University junior or senior student with a major in elementary education and in need of financial assistance, this scholarship is given to a student with a cumulative Grade Point Average (GPA) of 3.00 or higher. Mrs. King was a 1939 graduate of Cumberland University and taught for many years in elementary schools in Tennessee and New Jersey .

Virginia and Richard Lawlor Scholarship - This award is made annually to a student with a fine arts or humanities/social science major. The principal donor, the late Dr. Virginia Lockmiller, was both a graduate and a faculty member at Cumberland, and is a Life Trustee of the University. Additionally, Dr. Lockmiller was awarded the Doctor of Humanities ( honoris causa) in 1989 and the Algernon Sydney Sullivan Award in 1997.

Lucy Lee Leadership Wilson Endowed Scholarship - This endowed scholarship was established by alumni of the Leadership Wilson Program. Preference will be given to Youth Leadership Wilson alumni then Leadership Wilson alumni and family members of Leadership Wilson alumni. To be eligible for the award, students must be Wilson County residents and have a minimum 3.00 Grade Point Average (GPA) and a 22 ACT or equivalent. The scholarship may be renewed, but no student may receive the scholarship for more than a maximum of eight semesters.

Marshall Ledbetter, Sr. Scholarship - This scholarship is to be awarded to a junior or senior with a cumulative Grade Point Average (GPA) of 3.00 or higher and who has displayed a balanced, well-rounded academic and extracurricular educational experience. The student must also display strong leadership qualities and a yearning for knowledge and awareness in the area of chosen academic study. Mr. Ledbetter was prominent in Tennessee state politics and founded Victory Van Lines in 1932.

James S. Legg Scholarship - This scholarship is awarded to a student majoring in business. Mr. Legg graduated from the Cumberland University School of Law in 1930 and received the "Award of the Phoenix " from Cumberland in 1977. He was president of the Jaynelle Shoe Company and for several years hosted a series of business conferences on the University campus. The scholarship was established after his death in 1984 by his widow, Mrs. Dorothy Legg.

Elberta Smartt Linx Scholarship - This scholarship is awarded to an incoming Cumberland University freshman, and was established in memory of Mrs. Linx by her husband, Louis R. Linx, a friend of the University and resident of Nashville , Tennessee .

Bill Allen Martin Memorial Scholarship - Recipient must be a full-time student, an elementary education major with minimum Grade Point Average (GPA) of 3.00, partially or wholly self-supporting, and in need of financial aid. Additionally, he/she must display a balanced, well-rounded academic and extracurricular educational experience. Mr. Martin, a 1939 graduate of Cumberland University , was a Wilson County educator and farmer. Mr. Martin was a man deeply devoted to education throughout his life.

Thomas Gordon Mason Scholarship - This scholarship is need-based and is for the use and benefit of deserving students of Wilson County, Tennessee. Mr. Mason was the son of John B. Mason who served as Sheriff of Wilson County. Mr. Mason retired from a management position at Union Carbide in Charleston , West Virginia .

David Alexander McCandless Scholarship - This scholarship is to be awarded to a Cumberland junior or senior with a cumulative Grade Point Average (GPA) of 3.00 or higher who is majoring in a liberal arts discipline or education. Recipient must not be involved in varsity athletics. The McCandless scholarship was established in 1989 by Mrs. Frances McCandless Roby in memory of her father, an 1894 graduate of Cumberland University . Mr. McCandless was a highly respected attorney and in the late 1920s was Chief Justice of the Commonwealth of Kentucky .

Martha Roberts McCoin Scholarship - The recipient must be a resident or graduate of a secondary school in Overton or Jackson Counties in Tennessee or be a descendant of Martha Roberts McCoin. The scholarship was established in 1990 by Dr. Charlene McCoin-Johnson Kozy, former President of Cumberland University, and her husband Steve in honor of her late mother who was never able to attend college herself. Through the encouragement and support of Mrs. McCoin, thirteen (13) degrees have been earned by immediate members of her family.

Gwendolyn McFarland Endowed Scholarship - This scholarship was established in memory of Gwendolyn McFarland, an enthusiastic supporter of fine arts activities in Wilson County, Tennessee. Mrs. McFarland's special love for Cumberland University continues through the annual awarding of the scholarship. This award will be given to a declared Fine Arts major. The recipient must have a minimum ACT score of 20 with a 3.00 High School Grade Point Average (GPA). Current undergraduate student applicants must have a Grade Point Average (GPA) of 3.00. This scholarship may be renewed if the recipient maintains full-time status and a 3.00 Grade Point Average (GPA). Mrs. McFarland was the widow of Dr. Sam McFarland a long-time physician who practiced in Lebanon , Tennessee .

Susan Rene McGee Scholarship - This scholarship, in memory of Susan Rene McGee, is given to a female Lebanon (Tennessee) High School graduate who has a minimum 3.00 Grade Point Average (GPA) while being enrolled full-time, majoring in pre-law. Renewable only if there is not a qualified freshman applicant the following year and the current recipient maintains a 2.50 Grade Point Average (GPA) and full-time status.

Charles William McKee Endowed Scholarship - This scholarship is awarded annually to a student enrolled in the Master of Science degree program with an option in Public Service Management (MSP).  The award is named for the former Executive Vice President and Dean of Students and current faculty member who has served as the advisor to MSP students since the beginning of the program.

L. C. and Mary Argo McKee Endowed Scholarship - This scholarship is given annually to a non-traditional adult student majoring in elementary or secondary education. The recipient must have financial need and previously have achieved a 3.00 Grade Point Average (GPA). A 3.00 Grade Point Average (GPA) must be maintained during the award period. The scholarship honors the memory of L. C. and Mary Argo McKee. Mr. McKee was a grocer in Nashville , Tennessee and Mrs. McKee was a long-time teacher in Nashville-Davidson County . This scholarship was established by their sons, one of who is a physician in Nashville, and the other is the former Executive Vice President and Dean of Students and current faculty member .

Mills-Isbell Scholarship - This scholarship honors the memory of James Thomas Mills, Sr., Isabella Webster Mills, and former Cumberland University president, Dr. J. Thomas Mills. This award is given to a student, regardless of need, that works in the maintenance department or in the Office of the University President as their financial aid work study assignment. The primary donors of this scholarship were Dr.  Mills and his family. Dr. Mills served as President of Cumberland University from 1989 until 1991.

Fred G. Page Endowed Scholarship - This scholarship is awarded to a freshman who is a graduate of a Wilson County ( Tennessee ) High School with a minimum 3.00 Grade Point Average (GPA) and enrolled as a full-time student. This scholarship is renewable if there is not a deserving freshman the following year, provided full-time status and a 2.75 Grade Point Average (GPA) is maintained. Any renewal is limited to a maximum of four (4) years. Mr. Page was an accountant who had a practice in Nashville, Tennessee .

Lunette Gore Partlow Endowed Scholarship - This scholarship is awarded to a full-time junior who has a declared major in the Fine Arts with a concentration in art and who has earned an overall cumulative Grade Point Average (GPA) of 3.00 on a scale of 4.00. The scholarship is renewable provided full-time status and 3.00 Grade Point Average (GPA) is maintained. The scholarship was established in 1995 by Dr. Suzanne Gore in memory of her grandmother, an artist and art teacher who taught for thirty-two years in public school systems of Macon, Trousdale, Smith, and Wilson Counties in Tennessee and who was "artist in residence" at Cumberland University for twenty-two (22) years.

Joe M. Phillips Memorial Scholarship - The recipient must meet all entrance criteria and be a full-time undergraduate or graduate student at Cumberland University . Each recipient receives a biographical sketch of Joe M. Phillips, Sr., who was a 1922 A.B. graduate of Cumberland University and also received his LL.B. degree from the Cumberland University School of Law in 1925. The scholarship was established in his memory, in 1991, by his son, Dr. Joe M. Phillips, Jr., and other members of the Phillips family.

 Sean Putman Memorial Scholarship - Established by his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Troy Putman, in memory of their son, Sean, who lost his battle with cancer at the age of eight. The award will be made to Wilson County high school graduates who exhibit leadership and student excellence. Applicants should possess a determination to succeed and character traits that reflect cooperation and a goal-oriented personality. The award can be made for no more than eight (8) semesters, and the student must maintain a 3.0 GPA to continue to receive the scholarship. Click here to download the application for the Sean Putman Memorial Scholarship. Applications specific to the Sean Putman Memorial Scholarship are also available in the Office of Student Financial Services. For more information, contact Beatrice LaChance, Director of Admissions and Student Financial Services at 615.547.1244 or blachance@cumberland.edu.

Marvin and Ruth Reeves Scholarship  - This endowed scholarship is awarded to an undergraduate student in any program who has a minimum grade point overage of 2.0 based on a 4.0 scale.

Robison Brothers Scholarship - The recipient must meet all entrance criteria and be a full-time undergraduate or graduate student at Cumberland University . This scholarship was established in 1991 by the Robison Family in memory of Joseph Alexander Robison, Fount Love Robison (1931 graduate and a member of the Cumberland University Sports Hall of Fame), Ransom Shannon Robison (1934 graduate and a member of the Cumberland University Sports Hall of Fame), and David McGill Robison (1928 graduate  and a member of the Board of Trust of Cumberland University).

Frances S. Robson Endowed Scholarship - The recipient of the Frances S. Robson Scholarship must have financial need to be eligible for this award. Additionally, an applicant must have a high school Grade Point Average (GPA) of 2.00 on a 4.00 scale and an ACT score of 20 or higher. The award will be made for no more than eight (8) semesters. The late Mrs. Robson, a resident of Florida , graduated from Cumberland in 1933.

Jeanette Cantrell Rudy Endowed Scholarship - This scholarship was established by Jeanette Cantrell Rudy and is awarded to nursing majors who are enrolled in nursing classes.  Recipients must have at least a 2.80 GPA. Preference is to be given to a registered nurse who is returning to upgrade his/her education and certification to a BSN. The donor, who serves on the University's Board of Trust, was awarded the Doctor of Humanities ( honoris causa ) from Cumberland University in 1990 and is a Registered Nurse (RN).

Rudy Nursing Scholarships - Established by Jeanette Cantrell Rudy, member of the University's Board of Trust, this scholarship is awarded to nursing majors, based on financial need.  Individuals receiving this award must maintain a minimum of a 2.80 Grade Point Average (GPA).

Effie Holloway Sloan Scholarship - This award is given to a resident of Wilson County, Tennessee who is a junior or senior at Cumberland University majoring in education and who plans to teach at the elementary or secondary level. Education faculty members of Cumberland University may make recommendations. This scholarship was established in 1986 by Eugene Holloway Sloan, a 1928 graduate of Cumberland University , in memory of his mother. Mr. Sloan is a retired journalist.

Lillian White Sloan Scholarship - This scholarship is awarded to a junior or senior who has published in a magazine, newspaper or in other print media in the current or previous year. The English faculty will be solicited for recommendations. Mrs. Sloan, a 1929 graduate of Cumberland University School of Law, is a retired journalist. The scholarship was established in her honor in 1986 by her husband, Eugene Holloway Sloan.

 Betty Smallwood Endowed Fund - This scholarship was established in memory of Mrs. Betty Smallwood by Mrs. Brenda Callis.  Recipients shall be full-time undergraduate students with special financial circumstances.  Preference is given to students who have a minimum grade point average (GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale.

Homer Dean Tomlinson Endowed Scholarship - This scholarship was established in memory of Mr. Tomlinson by his wife, Peggy Franklin Tomlinson. Mr. Tomlinson, a native of Mt. Juliet , attended Cumberland in 1960 through 1962. He taught school in Wilson County, Tennessee and was principal at Tucker's Crossroad. Additionally, he taught at Mt. Juliet Jr. High, and then became assistant principal of Mt. Juliet High where he served thirteen (13) years. He was an educator, a civic leader, and loved by many people. The scholarship is awarded to a Mt. Juliet High School graduate with a minimum 18 ACT and 2.50 Grade Point Average (GPA). This award is renewable for four (4) years or eight (8) semesters provided full-time status and a 2.50 Grade Point Average (GPA) is maintained.

Steven V. and Fannie Trigg Scholarship - This award is given to worthy young men and women of Wilson County, Tennessee. This scholarship was established by the late Lebanon, Tennessee businessman, Hayden Trigg, to honor the memory of his parents. Mr. Trigg owned a ladies ready-to-wear shop on the town square. Mr. Trigg was a member of the First Presbyterian Church in Lebanon, and his civic and community interests were related to his association both with his church and with Cumberland University .

Harry and Mary Neil Vickers Endowed Scholarship - This scholarship may be awarded to any deserving resident of Cannon County , Tennessee or to a resident who lives in the 16th or 21st districts of Wilson County, Tennessee. The recipient must have a minimum high school Grade Point Average (GPA) of 2.50 on a 4.00 scale and an ACT score of 20 or higher. The scholarship is need-based and will not be given for more than eight (8) semesters.

Van Washer Scholarship - This scholarship is awarded to an incoming freshman who is a relative of a former Cumberland student enrolled during the years 1956 through 1982. The recipient must have a minimum high school Grade Point Average (GPA) of 3.00 on a 4.00 scale and an ACT score of 20 or an equivalent SAT score. The award will be based on need and given to a student who has displayed outstanding citizenship. The scholarship may remain intact if the student maintains a 2.80 Grade Point Average (GPA) and is making normal progress toward graduation. The award can be made for no more than eight (8) semesters. During his years at Cumberland University, Mr. Washer served a coach of both the varsity basketball and baseball teams.

Nina Mae and Charles Ballard Weatherly Trust Endowed Scholarship - The wills of the late Nina Mae and Charles Ballard Weatherly have established a trust fund to provide scholarships for students majoring in primary and/or secondary education who would not be able to attend or remain at the University without financial assistance. The recipients must maintain a 3.00 Grade Point Average (GPA). Mr. and Mrs. Weatherly were long-time residents of Wilson County, Tennessee. Mrs. Weatherly was a former teacher, principal, and central office supervisor in the Wilson County School System. Mr. Weatherly was a retired employee of the Middle Tennessee Electric Membership Corporation and real estate agent.

Ina G. Welborn Endowed Nursing Scholarship - This scholarship is awarded based on need to a student majoring in Nursing. The awarded funds may be used for tuition and books.

A. C. Wharton Family Scholarship - This scholarship is awarded to a Wilson County, Tennessee student majoring in business who needs financial support to attend college and who has been accepted as an entering freshman. The scholarship honors Mary and A. C. Wharton, Sr., well-known and respected business and civic leaders in Lebanon, Tennessee. It was established in 1989 by their children, including A. C. Wharton, Jr., Mayor of Shelby County, Tennessee, who is a former member of the Cumberland University Board of Trust.

Wilson Bank & Trust Scholarship - Established by Wilson Bank & Trust for student who are children of employees of Wilson Bank & Trust. The scholarship will be awarded based on need to a student with a minimum high school Grade Point Average (GPA) of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale. The scholarship may be received for eight semesters as long as the student maintains a full-time student status and maintains a Grade Point Average (GPA) of at least a 2.80 while enrolled at Cumberland University.

Charles C. and Mary Lorraine Wilson Endowed Nursing Scholarship - This scholarship is awarded based on need to a student majoring in Nursing who has displayed outstanding citizenship. The recipient must have a minimum high school grade point average of 3.0 based on a 4.0 scale and an ACT score of 18 (or equivalent SAT score).

Mark P. White Scholarship - Richard J. and Linda M. White of Lebanon, Tennessee, and other individuals in the community established this scholarship in 1985 in memory of the White's son, a Cumberland University student who was killed in a traffic accident in 1984. This scholarship fund became endowed in 1993 and is a lasting memorial to a young man who cared deeply about education and was committed to completing his studies.

John T. Woodfin Scholarship - This scholarship is awarded to a Cumberland junior or senior majoring in the liberal arts with an orientation toward pre-law or pre-medicine and is a resident of the State of Tennessee . Established in 1988 by Virginia Woodfin, widow of John T. Woodfin, this scholarship honors Mr. Woodfin, who was a civic leader and businessman from Rutherford County, Tennessee.

Will D. Young Scholarship - Available to a Cumberland University junior or senior with a minimum Grade Point Average (GPA) of 3.00. Recipient must display a balanced, well-rounded academic and extracurricular educational experience as well as a yearning for knowledge and awareness of his/her chosen area of study. Mr. Young was a former member of the history faculty at Cumberland University and previously served as Academic Dean of the institution.

Scholarships in the Process of Being Endowed:

  • Middle Tennessee Alumni Scholarship
  • Henry and Sue Schumpf Endowed Scholarship in Nursing

Scholarships Awarded on an Annual Basis: