Sophie Hamrick Knight Memorial Scholarship

The intent of the donor is to provide financial assistance to deserving student(s) who are determined to get an education but need financial assistance to get started or to continue in college. To qualify for the Sophie Simpson Knight Memorial Scholarship, applicants should meet the criteria listed below; however, the Selection Committee may waive specific requirements if, in their unanimous opinion, circumstances justify doing so.

Scholarship Eligibility:

Must demonstrate financial need
Must demonstrate a positive attitude
Must demonstrate interest and potential to become a teacher
Preference should be given incoming freshman
Preference to applicants who are scholastically capable of meeting the academic standards of Western Colorado University, but who may not be eligible for scholarships awarded to the top five (5) percent of a graduating class
Preference to applicants whose study time may be limited by family obligations or the need to earn income

Renewal Opportunity:
Applicants must reapply annually
Preference given to applicants who have previously received the Sophie Hamrick Knight Memorial Scholarship.

The Sophie Hamrick Knight Memorial Scholarship was established in 1987 by Sophie’s son, V. Robert Kerr and other family members to perpetuate the memory of Sophie Knight, an outstanding example of academic achievement, citizenship, and an exemplar of courage and dedication in the pursuit of education and knowledge.

Mrs. Knight received her BA degree and a life certificate from Western in 1957 with a double major in Education and English and a double minor in History and Political Science. She graduated at the age of 64, some 13 years after she began her college education, and after having had three children precede her as graduates of WCU. Over the years, Sophie attended as a full time student when she could, but she relied on extension, correspondence and summer school for much of her course work. Mrs. Knight’s values were learned and shared by her children: Betty Jo, MacDonald and Perlita.

Betty Jo completed her associate degree at Western and entered nurse’s training. With a break for World War II, MacDonald completed his bachelor and master’s degree and was selected as WCU’s first Fulbright Scholar. He used the grant to study at the Sorbonne in France. Perlita graduated from Western and continued her education with an MA from the University of Chicago and an MS from the University of Colorado.

The story of Sophie’s eldest son, V. Robert Kerr, is also a study in perseverance and fervent desire for an education. Separated from his mother at an early age, Robert was not to see or to know his mother for more than sixty years. With purpose and tenacity, inherited from Sophie and his West Virginia forebears, Robert pursued his education and graduated from the University of Colorado with a degree in electrical engineering.

The story of Sophie Knight is one of hardship and hard work, great love for her family, and one who valued the work ethic and education among the prime virtues. Sophie gave assistance and encouragement to many young people in their struggle against an unfavorable environment.