Arkansas chancellor foregoes ceremony for scholarships

By The Associated Press

FAYETTEVILLE — Because of the tough economic times, the chancellor of the University of Arkansas at Fayetteville says it was an easy decision to make to give up traditional inauguration ceremonies to formalize his new administration and use the money, instead, for college scholarships.

G. David Gearhart, who succeeded John White as chancellor, says the money will be used for 50 scholarships of $1,000 each for incoming freshmen this fall.

"Given the state of the economy and the struggles that so many of our current and incoming students and families are facing, spending funds on an inauguration seems ill-advised and frankly unnecessary," Gearhart said in a news release. "The private funds that were intended for inaugural activities will now be designated for a student scholarship program."

The one-time scholarships will be awarded on academic merit and financial need. Inaugural Scholars also will receive mentoring and will be encouraged to apply for additional scholarships for their sophomore year.