Donor Biography

Gwen and Keith Knight are extremely excited to be able to create an endowed scholarship for Psychology students at Southern Utah University. They both earned Bachelor's degrees in the field of Psychology. Gwen obtained her degree from SUU and Keith's degree in Organizational Psychology was earned at the University of Utah. They both share a love of lifelong learning, an appreciation for the importance of education, and the desire to provide support to students who are pursuing their dreams of obtaining a higher education.

Gwen's personal experience as a non-traditional student at SUU truly contributed to her desire to establish a scholarship. After her children were older and several had graduated from SUU, Gwen was able to obtain a scholarship to return to higher education and work towards her goal of obtaining a degree. She had worked for several years in the Utah State Court System and was majoring in Criminal Justice, but as she was walking across campus one day, she had a distinct impression that she wanted to study Psychology. The next day she talked to an advisor, met some of the professors, and changed her major. She quickly grew to love learning about why we do the things we do and felt accepted and supported by her professors and other students, even though she was a non-traditional student. She enjoyed being involved in PSI CHI and was elected an officer in the Psychology Club. Gwen maintained a 4.0 GPA and was actively involved with organizations in the community, becoming an advocate for children and families in both her career and volunteer service. During her senior year, her funds set aside for schooling were quickly becoming depleted, but through the generosity of a scholarship donor, Gwen was able to timely complete her degree. She graduated in 2012 and was honored to be named the University Valedictorian, all while working full time. Gwen's love of SUU and education prompted her to obtain a Master's Degree in Public Administration and she graduated from SUU's MPA program in 2016.

Keith is a converted T Bird and continues to be Gwen's biggest cheerleader and supporter as she serves on the Advisory Council for the College of Humanities and Social Science and in establishing this scholarship!

Gwen and Keith are very pleased to dedicate this scholarship to Gwen's mom, Maggie who recently passed away at the age of 102. Maggie worked diligently as a high school student and received a scholarship to Indiana State University in 1938, but sadly was unable to accept it due to financial hardships at home. Maggie loved learning, and throughout her life continued to gain knowledge and skills to enhance her growth and increase her ability to help others. Her persistence to continually strive for excellence despite difficulties has inspired both Gwen and Keith! It is their hope to inspire the recipients of this scholarship as well!

Scholarship Criteria

Awarded to undergraduate students in their sophomore or junior year majoring in psychology with a 3.0 GPA. Preference for first generation students and nontraditional students.

Humanities and Social Sciences

Psychology

Varied Dollars/yr