Henderson State announces Bonnie Adams and Rafael Sanjuan Don’t Despair Scholarship

Rafael Sanjuan and Bonnie Adams

Henderson State University has announced the establishment of the Bonnie Adams and Rafael Sanjuan Don't Despair Scholarship, a new scholarship fund that will support Henderson students pursuing their education and achieving their academic goals.

The Bonnie Adams and Rafael Sanjuan Don't Despair Scholarship will benefit Arkansas students majoring in performing arts, nursing, or education who demonstrate financial need and maintain a minimum 2.0 grade point average.

Bonnie Adams Sanjuan, originally from Prescott, Arkansas, first came to Henderson State as an eighth-grade student attending a majorette camp. She later returned to campus as a student, majoring in theatre with a minor in military science and becoming deeply involved in campus life.

During her time at Henderson, she was named Miss Congeniality and Miss HSU in 1975, Who's Who Among Students in American Universities and Colleges, selected as a Distinguished Military Graduate (DMG) and made university history as the first female military officer commissioned as a 2^nd lieutenant in the Army from Henderson State University.

Following her student-life at Henderson, Bonnie went on to serve an exceptionally distinguished career in the Army Medical Department (AMEDD). Receiving both the U.S. Army and German Army Paratrooper wings, receiving the Order of Military Medical Merit (OM3), the highest recognition bestowed to an AMEDD Officer, and upon retiring awarded the highest peacetime award, The Legion of Merit.

"Scholarship endowments play an important role in supporting Henderson students by helping remove financial barriers and allowing them to focus on their academic and career aspirations," said Josh Kee, vice chancellor of Advancement at Henderson State. "Through gifts to scholarships, Henderson State continues to expand opportunities for students to pursue their dreams while preparing for meaningful careers and service to their communities.

"The creation of the Bonnie Adams and Rafael Sanjuan Don't Despair Scholarship reflects a strong belief in the power of education and the Reddie Spirit that defines Henderson State University - a culture committed to caring for our students and supporting future generations of Reddies."

For more information on scholarship endowments at Henderson State University, please contact Josh Kee at [email protected] or 870-230-5350.