Bio
Dr. Sterling Ray Church and his wife, Rhea Church, devoted their lives to serving others through education, family, faith, and community. Together, they created a legacy defined by compassion, integrity, and an unwavering commitment to helping others succeed. A proud alumnus of the College of Southern Utah, Sterling earned his Ph.D. from Arizona State University before returning to Cedar City to dedicate his career to the institution that had helped shape his own future. Over several decades at Southern Utah University, he served in a number of influential leadership roles, including Dean of Students and Vice President of Student Services. Known as a trusted mentor, gifted educator, and compassionate leader, Sterling devoted his career to enriching the lives of students and fostering an environment where they could thrive academically, personally, and professionally. Rhea was an equal partner with Sterling in a life of service. A devoted wife, mother, and grandmother, she generously gives of her time to strengthen her family, neighborhood and community. She is a dedicated volunteer, faithfully serving her church in a variety of callings, and she has served her community in various ways, steadfastly helping to administer the elections in Iron County. Rhea is a gifted pianist and accomplished accompanist, and shared her love of music in ways that blessed countless individuals and enriched countless performances. Sterling's extraordinary contributions to Southern Utah University were recognized through his induction into the SUU Hall of Honor and the naming of the Sterling R. Church Auditorium in the Sharwan Smith Student Center. Yet those who knew Sterling and Rhea best remember them not only for their accomplishments, but for their kindness, humility, deep faith, and sincere interest in helping others reach their full potential. The Sterling Ray and Rhea Church Endowed Scholarship honors their shared legacy of service and their enduring belief in the transformative power of education. Through this scholarship, future generations of Thunderbirds will be encouraged to pursue their educational goals, develop their talents, and make meaningful contributions to their communities—continuing the values that Sterling and Rhea exemplified throughout their lives.
Criteria
The Scholarship is to be awarded on an annual academic year beginning fall semester. The following criteria shall apply: Student leaders of SUUSA, 3.0 GPA minimum, Demonstrated financial need