Students in the Arkansas Tech University College of Education and Health have a new resource when they need financial assistance related to their degree pursuit.
The Friends of United Commercial Travelers Education Fund has been established through the ATU Foundation. It will provide eligible ATU students with funds to defray the costs of experiential learning opportunities, testing, fingerprinting, travel and teaching residency.
Sherry Taylor, ATU alumna and former president of the ATU Alumni Association Board of Directors, took on a leadership role in making the gift as the final act of an organization that has ceased operations in the Arkansas River Valley.
“While the Russellville United Commercial Travelers Council No. 665 has come to a close, it is our desire that our motto of ‘People Helping People’ continue in meaningful ways for years to come,” said Taylor. “In an effort for our legacy to carry on, it is our honor to establish the Friends of UCT endowment fund through the Arkansas Tech University Foundation to assist education majors as they pursue their calling to teach and serve others. Our (UCT) meetings have come to an end. However, the work will continue after us.
“For generations, our councils stood by a plan of friendship, service, leadership and compassion,” continued Taylor. “Our members gave generously of their time, talents and resources to support neighbors, encourage youth and strengthen the spirit of serving others in each and every project.”
Founded in 1888 by four traveling salesmen, United Commercial Travelers is a non-profit, fraternal organization. It was founded on the principle that if any of the salesmen were unable to care for their family, the other members of the organization would step forward and do so.
Over time, United Commercial Travelers evolved to become a service organization that benefited causes such as youth baseball and Special Olympics.
“We are very grateful for the generosity of Sherry Taylor and the United Commercial Travelers,” said Dr. Tim Carter, dean of the ATU College of Education and Health. “Sherry has been a friend of Arkansas Tech University for many years. This gift will allow us to meet the needs of students that scholarship money cannot be used to meet for unforeseen or extra costs related to their professional preparation.
“UCT has a rich history of assisting individuals who are experiencing challenging life circumstances,” continued Carter. “What we would like to do with this gift is continue their mission by assisting students who have unforeseen needs that cannot be met with scholarships, grant funding or loans so they can continue to pursue their educational goals.”
