Thanks to a grant from the Helen Jones Foundation, Inc., Western Texas College proudly announces the Helen DeVitt Jones Scholars Program. This new scholarship initiative recognizes student achievement, reduces financial barriers, and helps students stay on track toward completing their educational goals.
“Many WTC students balance college coursework with jobs, family responsibilities and other financial obligations,” said Lora Poe, Western Texas College Foundation Director. “This new scholarship program will make a meaningful difference in their ability to remain enrolled and complete their education.”
The program will provide scholarships to Western Texas College (WTC) students pursuing academic transfer degrees or career and technical education credentials. WTC students were invited to apply for scholarships, and the College is currently reviewing applications to identify recipients based on academic achievement, technical skill development, leadership potential and commitment to educational and career advancement. To support both academic and career pathways, the program will divide scholarship funding equally between academic transfer and career and technical education students.
The program honors the educational philosophy of Helen DeVitt Jones, a West Texas philanthropist who believed education could create opportunities and improve lives. Born in Fort Worth in 1899, Jones graduated with highest honors from the University of California, Berkeley, in 1921. She established the Helen Jones Foundation, Inc. in 1984 to continue her commitment to education and charitable giving. Her belief in the value of education continues through the Helen Jones Foundation, Inc. and its support of educational programs that help students build brighter futures.
The Helen DeVitt Jones Scholars Program reflects that philosophy by recognizing achievement in both traditional academic programs and hands-on technical education. Students who receive the scholarship will earn the distinction of Helen DeVitt Jones Scholar and receive a special graduation stole to wear during WTC's commencement ceremony, a visible reminder of the Helen Jones Foundation's investment in student success.
The new program directly supports WTC's 2026–2036 Strategic Plan, Serving Students Together, which places student success at the center of the College's decisions. By removing financial barriers, recognizing achievement and supporting students pursuing both academic and technical credentials, the program advances the College's priorities of Student Success with Clarity and Care and Workforce, Academic Pathways, and Regional Impact.
“The partnership with the Helen Jones Foundation demonstrates how community investment can help students complete their education, prepare for meaningful careers and strengthen the future of West Texas,” said Dr. Laurie Sharp, WTC President.
The grant represents an investment not only in individual students but also in the communities they will serve as graduates, skilled workers and future leaders.
For more information about the Helen DeVitt Jones Scholars Program, contact Lora Poe, WTC Foundation Director, at 325-574-7943 or lora.poe@wtc.edu.