Towery Family Establishes Scholarship to Honor Longtime A-State Educator

JONESBORO – A new scholarship at Arkansas State University will support future educators while honoring the life and legacy of a beloved faculty member whose decades of service helped shape generations of teachers across Arkansas.

Following the passing of Ronald Wade Towery in May 2025, his wife, Pam Towery, and daughter, Kim Towery Childers, have established the Ron Towery Family Scholarship through the Arkansas State University System Foundation.

The family has committed $30,000 to an endowment to create a scholarship that will support students in the College of Education and Behavioral Science (CoEBS) while celebrating Towery's lifelong dedication to education.

Dr. Towery retired from A-State in 2024 after 36 years of teaching and leadership in the CoEBS. Throughout his career, he helped prepare countless educators, served as department chair, mentored faculty members, and played a key role in developing teacher education curriculum and school partnerships across the region.

Established in his memory, the scholarship reflects Towery's passion for helping students overcome obstacles and achieve their educational goals.

"Ron devoted his life to education and believed deeply in the potential of every student," said Towery. "Creating this scholarship is a way for our family to honor his legacy while helping future teachers pursue their dreams and make a difference in the lives of others."

The scholarship will benefit students majoring in mid-level education, with preference given to non-traditional students. Eligible recipients may include students who are 25 years of age or older, single parents or individuals working at least 20 hours per week while completing their degree. Recipients must maintain a minimum 2.8 GPA and demonstrate progress toward admission to the Teacher Education Program.

According to the family, the scholarship was designed to support students who often balance coursework with work, family and other responsibilities, easing financial burdens during a critical stage of their preparation to become educators. The award may be renewed through a recipient's residency year, provided scholarship and program requirements are maintained.

"One of the many things we admired about dad was his genuine concern for students and their success," said Childers. "He spent his career encouraging future teachers and helping them navigate challenges. We hope this scholarship continues that work for years to come."

Known affectionately as "Dr. T," Towery was respected throughout the education community for his commitment to students, fellow educators and public schools. During a career spanning more than 50 years in education, including 36 years at A-State, he influenced countless teachers whose work continues to impact students throughout Arkansas and beyond.

The Ron Towery Family Scholarship will be awarded through the College of Education and Behavioral Science Scholarship Committee and will provide annual support through earnings generated by the fund.

For more information about this and other opportunities to give at Arkansas State University, contact the Office of Development at 870-972-3940 or by email.