Charles T. Crow Leadership Scholarship

Charlie Crow ’62, found many opportunities as a leader throughout his life. His much cherished years as a student at Arkansas State College provided a strong foundation for his leadership skills and the value he placed on being an active community participant. This scholarship honors his time at Arkansas State and his many contributions to the University.
From a young age, Charlie Crow learned the importance of connecting with and contributing to new communities. His family’s newspaper business required many moves to new towns, providing Charlie with an invaluable education in how to create connections, solve problems and build relationships in new and unfamiliar places. While he treasured the small town experience, he sought new opportunities in the wider world as he moved into higher education.
During college, he was curious and involved. He was deeply engaged in his coursework and was active as a member and leader in many organizations and activities. In his final year at Arkansas State, Charlie was the recipient of the prestigious Wilson Award and was honored as one of the outstanding senior students, graduating with honors. His vision for life directed his path after college, including military service, graduate education and his many employment opportunities.
Charlie valued education and life long learning. As an officer in the United States Army, he was selected to attend Intelligence Officer training as well as the Defense Language Institute. After completing his military service, he received a Master’s Degree from the LBJ School of Public Affairs (University of Texas) and worked for the Governor of Texas. Charlie was appointed as the Director of Arkansas Department of Planning, contributing as a Cabinet member under two Governors. These experiences provided leadership opportunities and helped him develop crucial leadership skills.
After his years of public services, he redirected his career and pursued business opportunities in the fields of investment banking and manufacturing of waste management systems. He later engaged with non-profit leadership as CEO of Habitat for Humanity in Nashville, TN, directly contributing to the betterment of neighborhoods and communities. Each milestone offered exciting and challenging leadership opportunities in technology, community development and project management.
Over the years, Charlie developed strong friendships and focused on community leadership. He was active in his church. He was an avid songwriter and songwriting instructor. In collaboration with others, he wrote a musical play. He was a long time member of the Little Rock Men’s Book Club. Charlie was involved in the Arkansas Prostate Cancer Foundation and served as President of the Board of Directors. He mentored many people and continued to be involved in a rich and varied range of activities throughout his life. He was deeply beloved by his entire family.
Charlie’s family hopes that recipients of this scholarship will draw vision and a strong understanding of leadership from their time as students at Arkansas State University that they carry this forward into future endeavors.