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The Robert “Ben” Williams
Minority Scholarship Endowment, which supports scholarships awarded
for academic excellence, was established to provide assistance for
young Mississippians or lineal descendants of University of
Mississippi alumni. Formerly known as the Minority Alumni
Scholarship, this was the first fund to be established by the
University’s African American alumni. The group provided initial
contributions, and subsequent funding has come from several sources,
including alumni and friends who continue to support various
fund-raising efforts.
The Robert “Ben” Williams
Scholarship was endowed in 1992, and the first recipient was chosen
that same year. Since that time, numerous deserving students have
participated in the selection process for this prestigious award.
|
Qualifications |
Must be an entering minority freshman and possess leadership potential,
scholastic ability, and financial need |
|
Amount |
|
|
$500/semester for 10 semesters or until graduation,
whichever comes first |
| Deadline |
|
|
Applications must be received in the Alumni
Office by March 1 |
* Recipients must maintain a minimum
cumulative grade-point average of 2.5
About Ben Williams…
Williams was the first
African American football player at The University of Mississippi.
A defensive lineman from 1972-1975, he thrilled fans with his
athletic abilities, becoming a three-time All-SEC performer
recognized with a number of awards.
But his popularity on the
Oxford campus was not limited to the playing field. Affectionately
known as “Gentle Ben,” he continued to add to his list of “firsts”
while attending Ole Miss. In 1975, he was the first African
American chosen by the student body as Colonel Reb, the University’s
highest elective honor.
After earning a Bachelor of
Business Administration degree in 1976, he played professional
football 10 years for the Buffalo Bills. During this time, Williams
earned All-Pro honors and was named to the Bills’ Silver Anniversary
All-Time Team. He has also been inducted into The University of
Mississippi’s M-Club Hall of Fame and is a recipient of the
University’s Award of Distinction.
A businessman and owner of
LYNCO Construction Company in Jackson, Williams has served his
family, community, and alma mater by giving his loyalty, time, and
financial support.
At Ole Miss, he has
provided leadership in several crucial areas by serving as a member
of the Black Alumni Advisory Council, The University of Mississippi
Foundation Board of Directors, and M-Club Board of Directors; and as
chair of the Minority Scholarship Endowment fund-raising efforts.
In his community, he is
active in the Easter Seals Society and the Multiple Sclerosis
Association. Professionally, he is a member of the Association of
Building Contractors and is a recipient of the Ralph L. Wilson
Leadership Award.
