Abilene Christian University sophomores Eric Vergane and Haylee Newman have each been awarded $40,000 scholarships by The Sumners Foundation. They are among 36 undergraduate students nationally to receive a Sumners scholarship in 2025.
Vergane is a government major with minors in legal studies and public service from Miami, Oklahoma. He is a Pope Fellow, a member of the Pre-Law Society and the Honors College, and a volunteer with the Taylor Elementary School chess club. Newman, majoring in criminal justice and psychology, is a Presidential Scholar and has participated in the Honors College, ACU Study Abroad in Oxford, England; and Delta Theta sorority. She is from Jacksonville, Arkansas.
“Students at Abilene Christian University are dedicated to public service and making a real impact in the world. We are so pleased Eric and Haylee join ACU students from previous years who are recognized as Sumners Scholars,” said Dr. Neal Coates, professor and chair of government and political science.
Sumners scholarship selections are based on civic engagement, academic excellence, a capacity for leadership and a desire to further democracy. The funds apply toward the students’ junior and senior years.
“Our scholars are selected from the very best students at colleges and universities after a rigorous interview process,” said Sumners board chair Scott Higginbotham. “To be selected as a Sumners Scholar is an honor that will remain with the Scholar throughout his or her lifetime. Over the decades Sumners Scholars have made significant contributions to their communities, their states and America.”
Higginbotham said the foundation continues the legacy of Congressman Hatton W. Sumners by supporting students committed to improving the political system, addressing societal challenges through public policy, and educating citizens about civic engagement.
The Sumners Foundation promotes the study, teaching and research of self-government to help Americans understand the principles of democracy and shape effective government policy.
Sumners Scholar alumni include such notables as U.S. District Judge Fred Biery, Chief Justice Nathan Hecht of the Texas Supreme Court, and Joseph Foran, chairman of Matador Resources.
Learn more about Sumners Scholars or about ACU’s Department of Government and Criminal Justice.
