University receives gift of over $1 million for endowed scholarship, student academic support

^{Carson-Newman held a special luncheon for those close to and representing the late Anna Lee and Harrell Pendleton of Morristown. University President J. Randall O’Brien, pictured far right, presented the guests with certificates of appreciation for the establishment of an endowed scholarship and support of student academic success. Pictured with O’Brien are, from left to right, Joe and Faye Snowden, Harrell’s sister and brother-in-law, and Sharon and Jim Hipshire long-time friends of the Pendletons.}

(March 29, 2018) – A new estate gift of over $1 million to Carson-Newman University will allow the school to provide a first for future Carson-Newman students.

A gift from the late Anna Lee and Harrell Pendleton of Morristown endows a full scholarship for four years for one student.

“Carson-Newman has been truly blessed by an amazing group of supporters over the years. We have donors who have funded programs, events, teams, scholarships, building projects and much more with gifts ranging from $5 to over $2 million,” said Scott Faulkenberry, the University’s vice president for Advancement. “We have endowed scholarships that have been funded to this level, but they are partial scholarships given to many students. What makes this gift unique is that one student will receive a full ride for all four years at Carson-Newman – tuition, books, fees. All inclusive. That’s exciting.”

The “Anna Lee and L. Harrell Pendleton Endowed Scholarship” will be presented to academically qualified students who show evidence of financial need, with preference given to students from Hamblen County.

“This kind of gift truly shows the hearts of Mr. and Mrs. Pendleton- their love for education and their love for students,” said Carson-Newman President J. Randall O’Brien. “It is an honor that they put their trust in Carson-Newman and our mission of preparing worldwide servant-leaders. We are committed to ensuring that their investment in Christian higher education pays dividends in the lives of our students.”

In addition to the scholarship, the Pendletons also established the L. Harrell and Anna Lee Pendleton Endowment for Academic Support.

“To endow a scholarship that equates to a full ride is very special,” said Dr. Ross Brummett, senior vice president for Student Affairs. “But the Pendeltons didn’t stop there. They wanted to see these future students be successful from enrollment to graduation. That opens the door for life-changing opportunities – from enhancing current programs to initiating new efforts focused on meeting students where they are in life and helping them succeed during their time at Carson-Newman.”

The Pendletons shared a love for helping others. Born into the time of the Great Depression, Harrell served his country in the 8th Army Occupation of Japan. Though he did not have the opportunity to attend college, he, along with Anna Lee, understood the power of education. Harrell wanted to help students have the opportunities he did not have.

Longtime residents of Hamblen County and members of First Baptist Church of Morristown, the Pendletons were active members of their community with Anna Lee serving as a nurse and medical secretary for 37 years. Harrell was a real estate appraiser for over 50 years, active supporter of the VFW, and served on several boards for Hamblen County and the city of Morristown.

Founded in 1851, Carson-Newman is a Christian liberal arts university located in Jefferson City, Tennessee, among the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains. The University has over 2,500 students and offers 50 undergraduate majors, as well as associate’s, bachelor’s, master’s and doctorate degrees.