NPC Student Cory Morris Wins Guistwhite Scholarship

Cory Morris in a suit and tie with his PTK regalia on standing in front of the NPC picture screen.National Park College (NPC) student Cory Morris has been selected for the Phi Theta Kappa (PTK) Guistwhite Scholarship in the amount of $5,000 to be used for baccalaureate studies.

The Guistwhite scholarship is named for the late Margaret and Dr. Jack Guistwhite. They founded the first transfer scholarship designated for PTK members in 1975. It is the second-highest scholarship offered by PTK.

Morris will complete courses at NPC in the fall for his engineering degree. He will go on to enroll in the biochemical engineering program offered at NPC through its partnership with Southern Arkansas University (SAU). His ultimate goal is to study materials science. A material scientist is someone who studies the properties of man-made and natural materials. Cory stated, “I’d like to be able to wrap the walls of our homes with a product that is sustainable. I want it to be something that everyone will want, but that everyone can afford.”

PTK’s President and CEO Dr. Lynn Tincher-Ladner stated, “What Dr. Guistwhite started 45 years ago has become a transformation force in the lives of PTK members and has resulted in more than 800 colleges and universities designating transfer scholarship for our students. It is fitting that we continue to honor our students who excel in scholarship and leadership as Guistwhite Scholars in celebration of Jack and Margaret.”

“It is challenging being a non-traditional student and being the sole provider for my family of five. This scholarship allows me to focus on what is important, my family and my studies,” said Morris.