New MSU scholarship established for Education Abroad
The Morehead State University Foundation is proud to announce the creation of the Study Abroad Scholarship Endowment, a new fund designed to support MSU students in participating in international travel experiences that enhance their education and broaden their cultural horizons.
This endowment was made possible through a generous lead gift from Tim Wilson (Class of 1977, 1978) and Sarah Emmons (Class of 1979), two distinguished alumni whose lifelong commitment to education and global engagement inspired this initiative.
Wilson and Emmons met at MSU and shared a lifelong passion for travel and cultural exploration. Their gift reflects their belief in the transformative power of international experiences for students.
“Traveling internationally opens doors to new perspectives, cultures, and ideas,” Emmons said. “We hope this endowment makes it possible for students who might not otherwise have the chance to experience the world beyond Kentucky.”
Originally from Northern Ohio, Wilson enrolled at MSU following in his older brother’s footsteps. During his time on campus, he was deeply involved in student leadership, serving as Student Government Association Treasurer (1974-75) and SGA President (1975-76). Wilson was also an active member of Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity. He earned a bachelor’s degree in English in 1977 and a master’s degree in 1978 before attending law school at the University of Kentucky.
Wilson co-founded Wilson & McQueen, a Lexington-based law firm recognized nationally for excellence in workers’ compensation and personal injury law. His distinguished career includes numerous accolades, including induction into the Kentucky Workers’ Compensation Hall of Fame in 2025.
Emmons, a Fleming County native and first-generation college student, graduated from MSU in 1979 with a bachelor’s degree in communications and journalism. Active in campus life, she was a member of Delta Zeta Sorority and SGA. Emmons built a remarkable 34-year career at Transylvania University, where she rose to the position of associate vice president for Communications and Marketing, earning national recognition for her leadership and award-winning work in higher education communications. She was the first woman to serve on the President’s Cabinet and the first female administrator inducted into Transylvania University’s chapter of Omicron Delta Kappa, a national leadership honor society. Emmons is a member of the MSU Foundation’s Board of Trustees.
The couple’s love for MSU runs deep. Along with Wilson’s brother, Emmons’ five sisters and numerous extended family members graduated from the University.
“MSU is a very special place for us, and we are committed to supporting the University through funding unique academic opportunities for students,” Wilson said.
The Study Abroad Scholarship Endowment will provide financial assistance to MSU undergraduate students participating in the University-sponsored study abroad programs. Preference will be given to students traveling internationally for the first time and those with limited financial resources.
“This endowment will open doors for students who might never have imagined traveling internationally,” said Dr. Jason Adkins, coordinator of education abroad. “It’s an incredible investment in their future and in the University’s mission to prepare globally engaged graduates.”
Awards may cover program fees, travel expenses, or related costs, ensuring that students who might otherwise be unable to afford these opportunities can benefit from global learning experiences. When funds allow, the endowment may also support faculty travel hosts to enhance student safety and educational engagement.
Both Wilson and Emmons emphasized that they do not want the endowment to bear their names. Instead, they chose a general name, the Study Abroad Scholarship Endowment, in hopes that it will represent a collective commitment from alumni who believe in the value of global education. Their vision is to inspire others to join them in supporting study abroad opportunities for MSU students, creating a fund that reflects shared generosity and a united belief in the transformative power of international experiences.
For more information about the Study Abroad Scholarship Endowment or to contribute to this fund, please contact the MSU Foundation at giving@moreheadstate.edu. Students interested in applying for the Study Abroad Scholarship or Education Abroad should contact Dr. Jason Adkins at jm.adkins@moreheadstate.edu or 606-783-2144.
