Erin Duncan Memorial Scholarship Announced
Erin Duncan came to Connors State College in the fall of 2013 from Elkins, Arkansas to be a barrel racer for the Connors State Rodeo Team. In April of 2017, Erin was tragically killed while attending an ATV race in Alabama.
“For most, it is hard to find comfort in times like these,” said Jake Walker, assistant rodeo coach. “It’s a tragedy that a young lady would leave so soon. However, her pronounced faith and trust in God assures us that we know where she is spending eternity.”
Walker reflected on Duncan as a Connors State student, saying she was sweet, but had a smile and an ornery look in her eye that let you know she would pull your leg at any chance.
“She was a go-getter.” Said Walker. “From her love of horses, to modeling, to everything in-between. She enjoyed life, and loved her family and friends.”
Although Duncan was only a student at Connors State for one year as a part of the rodeo team, her memory will remain. In the fall of 2017, the Erin Elizabeth Duncan Memorial Scholarship was founded for Connors State rodeo team members. To date, more than $43,000 has been received in donations and pledges to start the scholarship endowment in her honor.
Some of the funds were raised through a benefit barrel race held in August in Siloam Springs by some of Duncan’s friends and members of the rodeo community.
“We believe she would be very proud of the scholarship legacy which has been funded in her honor,” said Walker.
Walker said he and Jake Lawson, head rodeo coach were initially contacted by a representative on behalf of the Duncan family. Knowing their limitations, they directed them to contact Dr. Anita Thompson, Connors State College Foundation Director.
“We are so humbled that Erin’s friends and family have chosen to honor her memory by supporting the programs that Erin loved so dearly during her time at Connors, said Thompson.”
The Scholarship will be offered for applicants within the Connors State Rodeo program, who are majoring in an agricultural related field. Qualifications will be a sophomore student with a minimum GPA of 2.5. The scholarship will be available for award in the fall of 2018.