Indiana State University alumna and widow of former faculty member Dr. William Harader made a $100,000 gift in support of the William H. Harader Memorial Scholarship to honor her late husband and to offer financial assistance to students studying political science.
“Bill was profoundly involved with Indiana State and cared deeply about political science and student success,” said the former Mrs. Harader. “It is my hope that this gift will carry forward his legacy by supporting students in their pursuit of academic and professional excellence.”
The former Mrs. Harader earned two degrees from Indiana State University, a bachelor’s degree in biology in 1961 and a master’s degree in microbiology in 1973 before she achieved a successful career in science education. Her husband, Dr. Harader, taught political science at Indiana State from 1969 until his passing in 1988.
Dr. Harader was a specialist in American Government and Public Administration and was director of the University’s Center for Governmental Services. The late professor was involved in advising on many master's theses, placed students in the American University Washington Semester Program, and served as a department representative in the Indiana Association of Cities and Towns’ Intergovernmental Personnel Project.
Beyond campus, the late professor was involved with his community through providing guidance to the Indiana Association of County Welfare Directors as well as serving as a member of the governor’s task force to improve the operation and management of state mental hospitals in Indiana.
Throughout his lifetime, Dr. Harader made a positive impact on his students, colleagues, and in the state of Indiana. To honor his enduring contributions, his family and friends established the William H. Harader Memorial Scholarship in 1992 for students studying political science at Indiana State.
“This memorial scholarship reflects a commitment to education, civic responsibility, and student success,” said Indiana State University President Mike Godard. “By supporting students studying political science, this gift helps prepare thoughtful leaders and engaged citizens who will make a meaningful difference in their communities and beyond.”
To be eligible, students must have attended for at least five semesters and hold the highest cumulative GPA in their cohort, have completed at least 12 credit hours in political science, and must not be recipients of any other Political Science Department award or financial aid.
"This scholarship has come to represent the highest level of achievement in our political science program, recognizing academic excellence and honoring Dr. Harader’s dedication to public service. We are proud to regularly award a scholarship that embodies the values the department seeks to instill in its students,” said Dr. Matt Bergbower, Chairperson of the Department of Political Science.
For decades, the William H. Harader Memorial Scholarship has opened doors for political science students at Indiana State University. Because of the generosity and steadfast commitment of the former Mrs. Harader, this scholarship will continue to empower current and future scholars for generations to come.
“Through the continued support of political science students, this scholarship removes financial barriers for Sycamores and expands opportunities for growth,” said Andrea Angel, Vice President of the Division of University Advancement and CEO of the Indiana State University Foundation. “This gift helps sustain this scholarship as a pathway to education and success for our students and we are deeply grateful for her support.”
To contribute to a program or area that aligns with your passions at Indiana State University, visit indianastate.edu/giving.