Generosity: Butler family establishes scholarship

The C.D. and Anna E. Butler Scholarship has been established through the Southeast Missouri University Foundation.

The couple's sons, Philip Butler of Lake Anna, Virginia, and Stephen Butler of Tierra Verde, Florida, made a $10,000 gift to establish the award. It was matched with an additional $10,000 through a foundation program, Honoring Tradition -- Inspiring Success Comprehensive Campaign.

The renewable scholarship will be awarded to a student enrolled with a minimum 2.0 grade-point average. First preference will be given to students who have a parent serving as a minister in a Baptist or United Methodist Church in Missouri. Second preference will be given to a student who is pursuing a music degree. Financial need will be considered, but completion of the FAFSA is not required. The Campus Life Scholarship Committee with input from the Association of Campus Ministries will select the recipient.

C.D. Butler received a bachelor's degree in history from Southeast in 1948 after serving in the China Burma Theater during World War II. He attended Southwestern Theological Seminary and was ordained a Baptist minister in Commerce, Missouri. Anna received a bachelor's degree in music from Southwest Louisiana University and a master of religious education from the seminary. In 1976, she earned a master's degree in teaching music at Southeast. Philip and Stephen are Southeast graduates.