Southern Arkansas University Receives $4.5 Million Gift from Windgate Foundation

Transformational donation establishes the Windgate Scholars Program Scholarship Endowment

Published on Mar. 8, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Southern Arkansas University has received a transformational $4.5 million gift from the Windgate Foundation to establish the Windgate Scholars Program Scholarship Endowment, marking the largest single donor gift for scholarships in the university's history. The endowment will provide ongoing support for need-based scholarships, with a portion dedicated to Studio Art scholarships starting in 2027.

Why it matters

This historic investment ensures that access to an SAU education will remain within reach for students with the greatest financial need, especially first-generation college students and those balancing work, family, and financial challenges. The endowment aligns with SAU's Mulerider Next Step Guarantee, a career-readiness initiative designed to prepare students for their careers after graduation.

The details

The Windgate Scholars Program Scholarship Endowment builds upon the Windgate Foundation's long-standing partnership with SAU, significantly expanding its impact by creating a permanent source of scholarship support. This gift dramatically extends the foundation's legacy of supporting initiatives that reflect a shared commitment to access, creativity, and educational excellence at SAU.

  • The endowment will begin providing Studio Art scholarships starting in 2027.
  • The Windgate Foundation has been a steadfast partner of SAU since 2019.

The players

Southern Arkansas University

A university located in Magnolia, Arkansas that provides students with the complete college experience in a caring environment of service, innovation, and community.

Windgate Foundation

A foundation based in Little Rock, Arkansas that is dedicated to advancing education, the arts, and community enrichment through strategic philanthropy.

Dr. Bruno Hicks

The President of Southern Arkansas University.

Steve Card

The chair of the Southern Arkansas University Foundation Board of Governors.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“This is a defining day for Southern Arkansas University. The Windgate Foundation has long believed in the power of education to change lives, and this extraordinary gift ensures that belief will continue to open doors for students who might otherwise see college as out of reach. We are deeply grateful for Windgate's trust, generosity, and enduring commitment to our students.”

— Dr. Bruno Hicks, President, Southern Arkansas University (gilmermirror.com)

“The SAU Foundation is deeply grateful for Windgate's enduring commitment to our students. Their past support has had a lasting impact across campus, and this endowment ensures that impact will continue year after year. It is a meaningful example of philanthropy that not only responds to today's needs but also thoughtfully plans for tomorrow.”

— Steve Card, Chair, Southern Arkansas University Foundation Board of Governors (gilmermirror.com)

The takeaway

This transformational gift from the Windgate Foundation demonstrates a deep commitment to expanding access to higher education and supporting the next generation of students at Southern Arkansas University. The endowment will have a lasting impact, ensuring that financial barriers do not prevent deserving students from pursuing their educational and career aspirations.