Lewis M. Hall Endowed Scholarship honors dedicated educator’s legacy
A scholarship fund honoring former faculty member and Order of the Tower cofounder Lewis Hall has been reestablished thanks to a gift from alumnus and retired dentist Charles “Lynn” Lewis ’75. The Lewis M. Hall Endowed Scholarship will provide a qualified Order of the Tower student with scholarship funds each year.
Throughout his time at the college Hall served in many roles, but his work as an instructor of mathematics was the most enduring. His passion for helping students succeed in the classroom has resonated with students like Lewis for decades since.
“When I arrived at Lees-McRae I was underprepared in math. Professor Lewis Hall gave me the time and personal tutelage so that I could not only complete my degree but go on to graduate education that demanded real mathematical proficiency. His exceptional ability to convey complex concepts and his absolute belief in me helped me move from struggling to outpacing many of my peers,” Lewis said. “That experience changed the trajectory of my life and enabled me to have a career in dentistry. This scholarship celebrates that kind of teaching, not my outcome. It is named in his honor to reflect the lasting impact of Lees-McRae teachers who wholly devote themselves to students’ success."
A scholarship honoring Hall’s 38 years of service to the college was initially established in 1992, but the award lacked the financial support required to be established as an endowed fund. Now, the award has been resurrected and will again carry on Hall’s legacy by supporting students through their journey at Lees-McRae.
“[My sister] Katie and I are extremely grateful to Dr. Lewis and the Board of Trustees for their generous collaboration in support of the re-establishment of the Lewis M. Hall Endowed Scholarship. During his tenure here, dad served in many roles, but educator was always his favorite and—he would say—most important,” Lab Coordinator Betsy Walker, one of Hall’s daughters, said. “Acknowledgment of his contributions to Lees-McRae with this scholarship is the most fitting way to honor him. Dad believed education was an opportunity that all students should have the chance to pursue. He worked hard to help students live up to their potential and find their way. This scholarship will continue that legacy of helping, of caring, of believing in each individual that dad fostered throughout his career.”
Recipients of the Lewis M. Hall Endowed Scholarship must be active members of Order of the Tower and must demonstrate high financial need and service to the Lees-McRae community. Secondary preference may also be given to applicants who are residents of Ashe County, North Carolina.
Learn more about other scholarship opportunities at Lees-McRae
