Mary R. James Scholarship

Shortly after high school graduation, Susan married her high school sweetheart Billy, and chose to take a year hiatus from school to be with Billy as he completed his military service. During that year away from school and home, they applied and were accepted as “married” students at Arkansas State University. The GI bill and Billy’s on and off campus jobs funded their life in married housing and paid most of his educational expenses. However, according to Susan, without scholarships, grants, and work study program, the goal of a college education would have been nearly impossible to achieve. Their college education opened doors and provided opportunities in life that they felt would not have been afforded otherwise, providing a wide range of memorable and meaningful life experiences for which Susan is thankful and grateful. Susan deems it a great honor and privilege to be able to support the education of others by funding two scholarships. One scholarship will honor the memory of her loving husband, Billy L. Duff (’74). The other scholarship honors the memory of her mother, Mary R. James, for her unending love, support, and encouragement.