Hannah Fortner, 18, and Lane House, 18, both of Poplar Bluff, have each received $1,000 scholarships from the Buel Johnson Endowed Scholarship Fund to help underwrite their studies at Three Rivers College. The fund is administered by the Three Rivers Community College Foundation.
Fortner, a 2017 graduate of Poplar Bluff High School, hopes to become either a doctor or an architect, she said in her application essay. In high school, she took part in several activities, including National Honor Society, Student Council, Beta Club and Fellowship of Christian Athletes. She was on the varsity swim team and track team. She is the daughter of John and Keisha Fortner, of Poplar Bluff.
After completing her basic courses at TRC, Fortner said she hopes to transfer to Missouri University of Science & Technology in Rolla.
Lane House, also a 2017 graduate of Poplar Bluff High School, plans to earn an associate degree in Business Administration at TRC and then complete a bachelor's degree in either business management or finance, according to his application essay.
In high school, House earned an academic letter each year. He also participated in football, track, Beta Club and Future Business Leaders of America, as well as the National Honor Society. He is the son of Brent and Shera House, of Poplar Bluff.
The Buel Johnson Endowed Scholarship Fund was established by the estate of the late Buel T. Johnson, of Poplar Bluff, who died in 2003 at the age of 93.
Mr. Johnson, a World War II veteran, was a teacher for 28 years. He taught at public schools including Biggers (Ark.) High School and Poplar Bluff Junior High School. For 17 years, he was a professor of English at the former Boonville-based Kemper Military College. After his teaching career, Mr. Johnson operated an insurance agency in Poplar Bluff. He also served as a local and state officer in Kiwanis International.
The scholarship named for him is to be given annually to in-district Three Rivers students who demonstrate a desire to succeed and willingness to work hard, according to the fund guidelines.
The TRCC Foundation is a 501(c)3 tax-exempt corporation offering donors substantial tax deductions for their contributions. The foundation administers numerous scholarships and special projects that benefit Three Rivers College and its students. For additional information, contact Executive Director Judith Scott at (573) 785-3743.