F. Clark and Norma T. Elkins Endowed Scholarship

Eligibility: Junior/Senior
Area of Interest: Elementary Education/History/Social Sciences

Criteria:

History, Social Science majors or Elementary education major; GPA of 3.0.

Dr. F. Clark Elkins served as President of Chadron State College from July 1961 – January 1967. The 5 ½ period was one of exceptional growth and change under his aggressive leadership. The enrollment increased 250 percent to 1,785, the college’s curriculum was upgraded, its accreditation was strengthened, several innovative programs that drew national attention were begun, six new buildings were constructed, faculty salaries and benefits were greatly increased and Chadron State’s image became very positive. A native of Arkansas, Dr. Elkins received his bachelor’s degree from the University of Central Arkansas, his master’s degree from the University of Arkansas and his Ph.D. from Syracuse University. He was a pilot during World War II, flying 34 combat missions over Japan and receiving several decorations, including the Distinguished Flying Cross. After leaving Chadron State, he served as president of Northeast Missouri State University for almost 2 ½ years. He then spent 11 years at Arkansas State University as Vice President of Instruction and Vice President of University Relations. In 1980, he became Vice President of University Relations and Development at Northern Arizona University at Flagstaff. He held that position until July 1, 1988, when he retired. Clark married Norma Trice Elkins on August 18, 1946. They lived in Jonesboro, AR from 1969 until 1980, and in Flagstaff, AZ until 1988 when they returned to Jonesboro. They have a daughter Annette who is married to Paul Bednar of Jonesboro. Norma passed away February 12, 2012.