Hinkle Endowment Supports Humanities Projects

Morehead State University recognizes the impact of the Buckner and Sally S. Hinkle Endowment for the Humanities, which funded a broad range of projects during the 2025-26 academic year.

This year’s funded projects bring nationally recognized scholars and artists to Morehead State, offering students and the public opportunities to engage with experts in a variety of fields. These programs strengthen academic curricula and foster meaningful connections between the University and the region.

These initiatives include:

• Digital Art and Design for All, led by Dr. Siriporn Peters, assistant professor of art and design
• The 11th Annual Clarinet Day with Guest Artist Diana Haskell, led by Dr. Lori Baruth, professor of music, clarinet
• The 4th Annual Trombone Symposium, featuring guest artist residency Peter Steiner and Constanze, led by Dr. Justin Croushore, assistant professor of trombone
• Andy Harnsberger and Caitlin Jones Percussion Duo, led by Dr. Brian Mason, professor of music and percussion coordinator, and Dr. Ben Cantrell, assistant professor of percussion.

The Hinkle Endowment reflects the enduring legacy of Buckner and Sally S. Hinkle, whose lives were marked by entrepreneurial achievement, civic engagement, and a deep commitment to education and community. Buckner Hinkle, founder of Hinkle Contracting Company, played a pivotal role in Kentucky’s infrastructure development and contributed to national industry standards. Sally S. Hinkle, known for her generosity and devotion to family and community, championed education and cultural enrichment throughout her life.

Applications Now Open for 2026-27 Cycle

The Buckner and Sally S. Hinkle Endowment for the Humanities is accepting applications for the 2026-27 academic year. The grant supports distinguished visiting professors, guest speakers and performances in liberal arts disciplines, including history, politics, music, art, theatre, literature, philosophy and religion.

“All full-time faculty in these disciplines are eligible to apply,” said Dr. Sylvia Henneberg, dean of the Caudill College of Arts, Humanities & Social Sciences. “By supporting performances and workshops, as well as academic lectures by renowned visiting professors, the Hinkle series complements and enriches programming and curricula at our University and in the community, facilitates important networking opportunities for our students, staff, and faculty, and lends visibility to the college and University as a whole.”

Application Deadline: Friday, Feb. 6, 2026

Faculty interested in applying should contact Dr. Sylvia Henneberg for details at s.henneberg@moreheadstate.edu.

The Buckner and Sally S. Hinkle Endowment for the Humanities continues to honor the Hinkle family’s vision of advancing education and cultural engagement, ensuring that Morehead State remains a hub for intellectual and artistic excellence.

For more information on this scholarship or how to create your own, please contact the Office of Alumni Relations & Development at 606-783-2033 or email giving@moreheadstate.edu.