Hermie “Boots” Hefty Scholarship in Nursing established

The Lamar University Foundation and generous donors Cherrie and Alan R. Hefty  have announced the establishment of the Hermie "Boots" Hefty Scholarship in Nursing, a significant initiative aimed at supporting the education of dedicated nursing students. The scholarship is open to both full-time undergraduate and graduate nursing students who maintain a commendable 3.0 GPA or higher. The endowment for this scholarship amounts to $15,000, providing crucial financial assistance to aspiring nurses.

The scholarship is named in honor of Hermie Lucille Harkins, a remarkable woman whose life was dedicated to caring for others. In her youth, she relocated to Port Arthur, Texas, and selflessly worked at the Gulf Oil Refinery infirmary, demonstrating her commitment to the well-being of those in need. Her devotion to service continued when she married Melvin Heft in 1943 and raised their two children.

Throughout her life, Hermie volunteered at Port Arthur's Saint Mary's Hospital, offering her support and skills wherever they were most required. It was during her final years, while bravely battling cancer, that Hermie experienced firsthand the indispensable care and compassion provided by nurses. Her deep appreciation for the vital role nurses play in healthcare left an indelible mark on her.

The Hermie "Boots" Hefty Scholarship in Nursing serves as a testament to Hermie Lucille Harkins' enduring legacy and her unwavering gratitude to the nursing profession. This scholarship will empower nursing students to fully realize their potential in today's demanding healthcare environment, carrying forward Hermie's spirit of giving and compassion.

For more information on establishing an endowed scholarsihp, visit https://www.lamar.edu/foundation