UA P.R.I.D.E. Group Receives $25,000 Scholarship Gift

One University of Arkansas student organization is getting a big financial boost on its anniversary!

The People Respecting Individual Differences and Equality, or P.R.I.D.E. organization, focuses on empowering and respecting lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender students and faculty.

And this month, it's celebrating 30 years on the Arkansas campus.

To add to the accomplishment, John Berry and Richard Anderson, two Springdale residents, gifted the group $25,000 to establish a "P.R.I.D.E. In Education" Scholarship!

"I've been thinking for quite awhile about how to give back to the campus community and in the process create awareness and understanding of LGBT issues," Berry said. "I know there are students who face issues with family, friends and religion that others may not have to go through. My hope is that this scholarship will help students who know about and have an interest in LGBT history and issues, and over time increase understanding across campus and beyond."

P.R.I.D.E. members say the money will help many LGBT students get a degree.

"In the 13 years that I've been advising P.R.I.D.E., I'm aware of many students who have had financial challenges because of their involvement with LGBT issues," said Judd Harbin, P.R.I.D.E. adviser and an associate dean of students. "Some families have cut off all financial support for their children. A scholarship like this could really help students in similar situations."

According to a press release from the UA, specific details regarding the scholarship application and selection process will be finalized once the scholarship reaches the endowment level.

For more information on P.R.I.D.E., CLICK HERE.