The Marshall University Foundation has announced a $30,000 gift to establish the John and Linda Williams Scholarship. This scholarship is generously endowed by John and Linda Williams, who dedicated their lives to philanthropy.
On Aug. 25, 2026, Linda Williams passed away at the age of 81. Her generous spirit lives on, reflected by a lifetime of giving back to West Virginia, the place that she so proudly called home. She lived by a motto inspired by her mother, “‘Can’t’ never did anything. ‘Try’ did it all.”
The John and Linda Williams Scholarship is inspired by the power of education, experience and lending a helping hand to those who need it. Following the creation of the Marshall For All program, the Williamses felt moved by the goal of creating more accessible education for the next generation.
“We’re so blessed to be lucky enough to help people,” John Williams said. “There’s a need for every craft and there’s nothing better than helping young people pursue an education. We feel very honored to be able to contribute to that.”
The Williamses invested heavily in their community. In addition to the John and Linda Williams Scholarship, they established a scholarship through the St. Mary’s School of Nursing, as well as the John and Linda Williams Center for Education Food Pantry Endowment Fund.
Through this scholarship, the Williamses hope that more people will feel inspired to give back to the communities and places that shaped them.
“We don’t do it for personal satisfaction. It makes our community, and even our society, better to give people opportunities. It’s beneficial for everyone to lend a helping hand,” John Williams said.
The Williamses were lifelong residents of West Virginia, living in the Kanawha Valley.
The recipient will be a full-time integrated studies major in the University College, a resident of West Virginia, in good academic standing of a 2.5 GPA or higher and have financial need per the standards of the Office of Student Financial Assistance. First preference will be given to a student who has completed their Associate of Applied Science degree through the SMART Program at Mountwest Community and Technical College. The award will be renewable for up to four years, or eight semesters, if the recipient maintains eligible academic standing. The Office of Student Financial Assistance will select the recipient and renew the award if satisfactory academic progress is maintained.
For information regarding the John and Linda Williams Scholarship, please contact Marshall University’s Office of Student Financial Assistance at 304-696-3162.