Nursing and psychology students have a new scholarship opportunity available to them at Northwestern Oklahoma State University. The Allen L. and Carolyn J. Wilson Scholarship was established by Alva residents, Allen and Carolyn Wilson, to provide financial assistance to Northwestern students.
Throughout his upbringing, Allen’s parents – both graduates of Northwestern – exemplified the importance of education. Allen graduated from Northwestern in 1970 with a degree in psychology. He went on to work as a vocational rehabilitator in Tulsa until his father offered him the opportunity to manage the family’s agricultural operation, bringing him back to Alva.
“I am a proud graduate of Northwestern,” said Allen. “I believe I received a fantastic education at this school as opposed to going to a larger university as a freshman. Living here and my family owning a business here, it also allowed me to help with that.”
After returning to northwest Oklahoma, Allen met his wife, Carolyn, at church in Enid. He claims this is when he began the best part of his life. Allen says Carolyn has a heart for people and it is evident in her career choice. She graduated from St. Mary’s School of Radiology and was a radiological technologist.
“We are pleased the Wilsons made the decision to invest in our students with this scholarship,” said Skeeter Bird, Northwestern Foundation & Alumni Association CEO. “There is a consistent need for scholarship support as nearly one third of our students are the first generation to attend college. Scholarships like the one created by the Wilsons support the aspirations of our students and impact future generations.”
The couple firmly believes education is life-changing. Through this scholarship, they hope the investment and their belief in the students will give them the opportunity to be successful in life.
“We have always wanted to be an encourager and advocate for anyone who wants to go to school,” said Carolyn. “Because of Northwestern’s values, its students are taught how to contribute and how to have a strong work ethic; these values will ultimately build a strong nation.”
Allen adds, “The university is an indescribably positive contribution to the Alva community and its sets us apart from other communities.”
The couple says they have a sense of personal desire to give back.
“Our motivation is for someone else’s benefit.”
Full-time, continuing students with a minimum 2.5 cumulative grade point average are eligible for the Allen L. and Carolyn J. Wilson Scholarship. Applicants must be a nursing or psychology major. The scholarship may be applied toward university-related expenses, including tuition, fees, books, room and board.
For more information on the Allen L. and Carolyn J. Wilson Scholarship, or about investing in Northwestern students, call Bird at 580-327-8593 or email him at aebird@nwosu.edu.
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