Nearly 100 area residents attended the Rogers State University Pryor Scholarship Fundraising Breakfast held Friday, Jan. 18 at St. Mark Catholic Church in Pryor.
The annual event provides scholarships for hardworking students who have the ability to succeed in college, but may not have the financial resources necessary to make their education dreams a reality, said Sherry Alexander, director of the RSU Pryor campus.
Chris Lyons, founder and CEO of Lyons Law Firm, is chairman of the RSU Foundation and shared his encouragement for those present to help support RSU scholarships.
“Each of us in this room has received help during our lifetime, and now we’re in a position to help others achieve their dreams,” Lyons told the crowd.
Proceeds from last year’s fundraiser helped raise more than $10,000, which funded five scholarships to students attending RSU Pryor. Receiving scholarships this academic year are: Devon Devers, a communications sophomore; Paul Devers, seeking an associate degree in nursing and has applied for RSU’s nursing program; Tessa Gerhart, seeking an associate in nursing and has applied for RSU’s nursing program; Matthew Jordan, a sport management sophomore; and Kara McCoy, a medical/molecular biology freshman.
McCoy, who intends to attend OU Medical School to become a radiologist, addressed the crowd to express her thanks for their support, which has allowed her to attend college.
“From your example, I hope to one day be in a position to pay it forward after I have graduated,” she said.
Table sponsors for the event included Pete and Pam Fowler, Friends of RSU, Belle S. Harris and Dr. Jane Johansson; Blaine and Margaret Jones and Cherie Meislahn, PLLC; Nash and Dana Lamb; Lyons Law Firm; MC Petroleum; North Point Ford Lincoln; The Paper; Pryor Area Chamber of Commerce; Pryor Stone; RCB Bank; Jack and Mary Lee Spinks and Underwood Trucking and Truck Repair.
For more information or to pledge your support for RSU Pryor Scholarships, contact Tonni Harrald at 918-343-7767.