UA Walton College Student Received McGowan Scholarship

UA Walton College Student Received McGowan Scholarship

FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. - Ra Hearne, a junior from Little Rock, Ark. in the Sam M. Walton College of Business, University of Arkansas, has received a scholarship grant worth $18,000 from the William G. McGowan Charitable Fund Inc. of Washington, D.C.

Hearne is an international business major and is using part of his scholarship to study at ESC Toulouse - Grande Ecole in Toulouse, France. He used the other part this past fall at the U of A.

"I want to study international business with a focus on marketing. The scholarship is enabling me to experience another culture and learn different business customs," said Hearne. "Half of the classes will be taught in French, and the other half will be taught in English."

Barbara Lofton, director of the Walton College Office of Minority Affairs, said: "Ra is an outstanding student, and we are very thrilled that he was selected for this national scholarship recognition. He will gain many valuable skills from his study abroad experience, which will help him in the job market."

Hearne added: "I chose to go to France because I have studied French for over two years. I have also been interested in doing business with native-speakers in parts of West Africa and the Caribbean because I have made many friends from those countries."

William G. McGowan was the founder of MCI Communications Corporation in 1968. Over the next 24 year, McGowan led MCI - and the entire telecommunications industry - in the application of new technologies and the creation of innovative services.

McGowan also introduced competition into what had previously been a closed monopolistic industry. He recognized in education a unique means for instilling and fulfilling vision. He also believed in finding ways to access the untapped treasures housed in the minds and spirits of the young and putting to good use that crucial human resource.

The McGowan Charitable Fund established the McGowan Scholars to provide selected colleges and universities with scholarships to help students who wish to pursue a business education. The program is based on the experience of McGowan during his college days. Though admitted to Harvard Business School to study for an MBA degree, he did not have sufficient funds to complete his studies. He won Harvard's Baker Scholars award, which provided the funds necessary for him to earn his degree and launch a successful business career.

The McGowan Scholars program recognizes the academic achievements and excellence of students pursuing a major offered by an accredited business school. It is designed to encourage leadership ability, interpersonal skills and a significant involvement in academic, campus and community activities. It also recognizes excellence of character, a spirit of innovation and entrepreneurial potential.

Hearne said: "After I graduate in 2005, I want to do something entrepreneurial and be in business for myself. The semester in France will help me figure out what kind of business that might be." Hearne transferred last year to the U of A from the University of Maryland.