Scholarship created for Mike Lawrence
A scholarship for students in the Paul Simon Public Policy Institute has been created to honor the former director Mike Lawrence.
David Yepsen, institute director, said people at the institute discussed ways to honor Lawrence after he stepped down Nov. 1.
“There’s a lot of ways people honor retired faculty here,” Yepsen said. “In these times, one of the most practical things to do is to provide some money to students who’ll need it.”
Yepsen said the scholarship would assist students within the institute’s Student Ambassador Program, which enables students to help with events and leadership programs. Yepsen said preference would also be given to black applicants, though it is not a requirement of the scholarship.
“The institute ought to reflect society,” Yepsen said. “(Lawrence) has been a big believer in that.”
Lawrence said he was honored and flattered by the gesture.
“I’m especially pleased that the scholarship will promote diversity at the institute,” Lawrence said. “I believe strongly that we need diversity in all walks of life.”
Lawrence, who continues to teach one journalism course on opinion writing, said he still plans to attend institute events, but is enjoying the freedom to return to his journalistic roots and write his syndicated political column.
Matt Baughman, associate director of the institute, said the new scholarship honors the legacy of Lawrence and reflects his devotion to students.
“I think it reflects (his) passion for teaching and for helping students,” Baughman said. “I can’t think of a better way to pay tribute to (Lawrence).”
Yepsen said money for the scholarship is being raised and details on how much would be given and how often it would be awarded are still unknown.
“It may be a couple of years before we’re able to start awarding these,” Yepsen said.
Madeleine Leroux can be reached at 536-3311 ext. 254.
