In establishing endowed scholarships in his estate Steven noted, "I cannot think of a better way to remember my parents--two people who left lasting impressions on the people in their lives than through endowed scholarships at Methodist University. This scholarship included in my estate furthers their legacy of making a positive difference and pays it forward for others at Methodist University.

"My parents were raised in sharecropper families in rural Cumberland County where folks valued strong work ethic and education: skills that are important to agricultural families. My parents would be proud to create opportunities for others to pursue their educational goals and career choices, just as they provided for me.

"I created these scholarships so that others can enjoy a Methodist University experience - an experience that made a difference in my life. Methodist helped me grow in leadership, social skills, and knowledge to achieve my higher education goals.

"If it were not for the support of my parents, the United Methodist Church, the MU Alumni Greatest Gift Scholarship, and other scholarships, I could not have eared my bachelor's degree from Methodist. My greatest accomplishment in life has been growth, and I want to ensure future generations of MU students also grow in ways that make a difference in this amazing world we live in."