Fulbright Alumnus Supports Aspiring Pianists

Photo Submitted

John Howard Morris

FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. – Aspiring piano students at the University of Arkansas will benefit from a new scholarship, thanks to alumnus John Howard Morris.

Morris, who previously lived in Fayetteville but now resides in Corpus Christi, Texas, is making a $160,000 estate gift to the J. William Fulbright College of Arts and Sciences to establish the John Howard Morris Piano Scholarship.

“Mr. Morris’s support of our music department is inspiring,” said Todd Shields, Fulbright College dean. “He is a loyal contributor to the university, particularly in the area of scholarship support, and has been for years. We are thankful for his contribution and passion for helping students pursue their dreams. His gift will be an excellent resource for recruiting and retaining promising pianists in Fulbright College.”

Morris developed an interest in playing the piano at an early age and took lessons beginning in the fourth grade. He was taught by Elizabeth McGill Bohart, a well-known teacher in Fayetteville.

After coming to the university as a student, Morris considered majoring in music but opted for history instead. Post-graduation, he spent time teaching in Tennessee, Kansas and Texas and eventually ended up at Wharton Junior College, southwest of Houston.

It was there that he renewed his passion for music and began taking lessons once again, this time from Edward Petsch. Morris, then in his 40s, found great satisfaction pursuing piano as a hobby.

Today, Morris is channeling his love for music – and the piano, in particular – into his philanthropy with the creation of the scholarship in his name. When the scholarship is funded, two students will benefit annually and receive financial assistance to help cover their college expenses.

“Piano music and playing the piano have always been close to my heart,” said Morris. “I wanted to support aspiring piano players with this gift.”

“The music department depends on pianists in so many ways, and it is important to help them in their studies,” said Ronda Mains, chair of the music department. “Piano is a very difficult instrument, and our piano majors practice a great deal. Because of this, it is nearly impossible for them to hold outside jobs to financially supplement their educations. Mr. Morris’s scholarship will give them the freedom and flexibility to practice more often without the added stress of juggling employment.”

This gift builds on seven previous student awards from Morris. In 2001, he created two Chancellor’s Scholarships – one in business and one in history. Several years later, he pledged $250,000 to establish five Access Arkansas scholarships at the university.

Morris holds both a bachelor’s and master’s degree in history from Fulbright College and serves on the Dean’s Advisory Council for the College of Education and Health Professions. He is also an A+ life member of the Arkansas Alumni Association. Because of his philanthropy, he is recognized as part of the Towers of Old Main, a giving society for the university’s most generous benefactors.