Scholarship benefits student LGBTQ advocates, honors memory of department chair
Students active in the LGBTQ+ community will be eligible for a $1,000 scholarship starting in the Spring 2018 semester.
The James W. Jones Memorial Scholarship was established in honor of James Jones, a Central Michigan University professor who died July 19. He served as the chair of the World Languages and Cultures department and founded the Association of LGBTQ+ Faculty and Staff in December 1990.
Jones was also one of the first directors of the LGBTQ+ office, and was instrumental in getting domestic partner benefits for faculty, said Special Assistant to the Provost Jon Humiston.
"(Jones) did a lot for the LGBTQ community here on campus, prior to his passing," Humiston said. "I truly believe the climate is what it is on campus today in large part due to his work and his efforts in advocacy."
The scholarship will support students who are active in advocating for the LGBTQ+ community. Preference is given to students who have studied world languages. Scholarship applicants will be approved through the Office of LGBTQ Services.
The $1,000 award will be given annually to one student chosen by a selection committee comprising members of the Office of LGBTQ Services. Humiston said it is still being determined whether students will be allowed to reapply after receiving the scholarship.
Donations to the scholarship can be made to CMU Gifts Processing at the Carlin Alumni House, or by texting "JWJ" to 41444.
