Miles Family Establishes Endowed Scholarship to Support CVM Students

09/16/2025

JONESBORO - Arkansas State University has announced the creation of the Kathryn and Joe Miles Endowed Scholarship, made possible through a $25,000 gift from Joe and Kathryn Miles of Mountain Home. The scholarship will benefit deserving students pursuing a degree in the College of Veterinary Medicine (CVM).

A two-time graduate of A-State, Miles earned his bachelor's degree in marketing in 1974 and his Master of Business Administration in 1977. He was named a Distinguished Alumnus in 2017 in recognition of his decades of professional achievement and service to his alma mater.

"I believe in the power of education to change lives," Miles said. "Kathryn and I wanted to give back in a way that supports the next generation of veterinarians who will serve communities across Arkansas and beyond. We hope this scholarship helps students achieve their goals and make a positive impact in the field."

In addition to their initial gift, the Miles family has also made plans for an estate gift to further grow and sustain the scholarship, ensuring that future students will continue to benefit for generations to come.

Miles devoted over 40 years to community banking, serving as president of Integrity First Bank of Mountain Home and as a member of its board of directors before retiring in 2019.

His long record of service to A-State includes terms on the ASU System Foundation board of directors, where he was chairman from 2014 to 2016, and on the A-State Alumni Association board of directors. He is also a 1924 Sustaining Life Member of the Alumni Association.

"This generous endowment from the Miles family will support students on their journey to become veterinarians," said Dr. Heidi Banse, dean of the College of Veterinary Medicine. "We are grateful to Kathryn and Joe Miles for their commitment to veterinary education."

Additional information about this and other giving opportunities at A-State is available through the Office of Development at 870-972-3940 or [email protected].