The Anita Ledford Avenger Scholarship Award

This scholarship honors Anita Ledford, MS, her tenacity for life, professionalism, and deep-seated caring for all living things. Anita completed her Masters of Science in Parks, Recreation and Tourism in 2013. During Anita’s final year in the program, she was diagnosed with an Astrocytoma brain tumor, known as Wilbur to many. While undergoing surgery and treatment, Anita went on to complete her thesis, always with an amazing sense of humor and a determination to take Wilbur down. Anita continued to work and travel during her treatment and battle, always wanting to see the beauty in the world and in others. Her fight inspired us all. Anita’s efforts to complete her thesis despite the challenges associated with her surgery and healing process were remarkable. Anita believes in all that is beautiful in people and would go to endless lengths to ensure others are taken care of. In sum, Anita Ledford has set a very high bar for all of us – to be tenacious for good, to be kind, generous, and helpful to those in need, and to love and support with a smile always. She is our super hero and avenger! The Master’s student receiving this award should demonstrate a willingness to fight hard through adversity, support fellow humans with kindness and a generous spirit, and love life to its fullest through service to others and our beautiful world.