The University of Arkansas Global Campus has selected 35 students for the W.E. Manning Memorial Scholarship for the 2025-26 academic year, distributing a total of $64,000. This scholarship aids students enrolled in online degree programs while they manage jobs and family commitments.
Cheryl Murphy, the vice provost for distance education, reflected on the scholarship’s mission: “We want to help students with one of the biggest challenges in education — financial support. Since its inception after W.E. Manning’s passing in 1993, the scholarship fund has grown through the generosity of donors.”
Each of the 29 recipients will receive $2,000, split into $1,000 per semester. The remaining six awardees, who graduate in December, will get $1,000.
Recent trends show a rising demand for online education. According to a survey by the National Center for Education Statistics, the number of students enrolling in online courses has surged by over 50% in the last decade. This reflects a significant shift in how education is being accessed, especially for those balancing work and family.
The scholarship recipients come from diverse backgrounds and study various fields, including nursing, business, and law. Here are a few of the awardees:
- Madisyn Allen, Kingwood, Texas, studying English
- Jamie Bellers, Manila, in Nursing
- Efrain Garcia, Rogers, pursuing Supply Chain Management
- Alexa Hall, Benton, in Nursing Practice
The selection was based on financial need, academic performance, and community service, with a preference for first-generation college students and Arkansas residents.
Since its launch in 2018, the Manning Scholarship has provided over $1 million in funding. The original fund started with just $4,000, thanks to friends and colleagues of W.E. Manning.
In a world where education is increasingly vital, scholarships like Manning’s play an essential role in helping students achieve their dreams, making a significant impact on their communities.
For more on online education and the opportunities it presents, check out the University of Arkansas Online.
