Tarleton State Hosts 34th Annual Academic Scholarship Luncheon

STEPHENVILLE, Texas — Tarleton State University celebrated its 34th Annual Academic Scholarship Luncheon Saturday, honoring the generosity of scholarship donors and the achievements of student recipients.

This yearly stewardship event brings together those who make educational dreams possible and the students whose lives are transformed by their support. With a record breaking $27 million given in scholarships to Tarleton State students this academic year, this occasion celebrating both donor and recipient is memorable.

“Our Tarleton State alumni, friends and donors recognize that when something or someone is growing and thriving, resources are needed to sustain that growth,” said Tony Vidmar, Vice President for Institutional Advancement and Tarleton State University Foundation Executive Director. “In the spirit of our founder, John Tarleton, alumni along with friends of the university are giving in record numbers to help fuel a growing impact on student’s lives. We cherish their generosity, passion and partnership.”

Each year, the luncheon provides a unique opportunity for donors and recipients to connect over a casual meal. With intentional seating arrangements, students share stories and gratitude directly with the benefactors behind their scholarships.

In addition to these meaningful conversations, two student representatives deliver remarks on behalf of their peers, expressing heartfelt appreciation for the donors’ commitment to academic success. This year Lorrie Culver, a senior accounting major, and Sarah Fambro, a senior biomedical science major, were chosen to give the student addresses.

“Receiving scholarships has meant far more than financial support — it has been a vote of confidence in my journey,” said Culver. “Returning to finish a degree I began 34 years ago has required courage, balance and perseverance, and this support made it possible. Scholarships didn’t just help pay for my education — they helped me finish a dream that once felt out of reach, and I am deeply grateful to those who believe in students like me.”

The Scholarship Luncheon exemplifies Tarleton State’s commitment to providing access to affordable education for all students.

“Being chosen as a scholarship recipient has completely changed my college experience,” said Fambro. “Without it, I wouldn’t have been able to stay at Tarleton State or make the incredible memories that have shaped who I am. Receiving a scholarship has given me the freedom to focus on learning, growing and truly being present in this short but meaningful chapter of my life. I’m deeply thankful for the opportunities made possible through these scholarships and proud beyond words to be a Tarleton Texan for life.”

Tarleton State currently offers more than 300 donor-funded scholarships. On average, the luncheon welcomes approximately 100 donors and 150 students each year. For many donors, this is their only visit to campus annually, making the event a highly anticipated occasion.

Throughout the academic year, scholarship recipients also send personal thank-you notes, reinforcing the connection between donors and students.

For more information about giving to support Tarleton State students, visit www.tarleton.edu/giving/.

A founding member of The Texas A&M System, Tarleton State University is breaking records — in enrollment, research, scholarship, athletics, philanthropy and engagement — while transforming the lives of more than 21,000 students in Stephenville, Fort Worth, Waco, Bryan and online. For over 125 years, Tarleton State has been committed to accessible higher education opportunities for all while helping students grow academically, socially and professionally through programs that emphasize real world learning and address regional, state and national needs.