Willard L. and Florence L. Noland

This scholarship is established by Gary L. Noland and Deborah L. Noland of Sedalia, Missouri, in memory of Gary’s parents, Willard L. and Florence L. Noland of Warsaw, Missouri. Gary is currently the Chairman of the SFCC Board of Trustees, a former Foundation Director, and 18-year Director of the Career and Technical Center. Deborah “Debbie” is a former English instructor at SFCC. Both are avid, long-time supporters of the college’s students and programs.

Gary’s father, Willard, was a World War II veteran who earned three Bronze Stars, the Combat Infantry Badge, and the Purple Heart. After the war, he and Florence spent the majority of their child-rearing years in Warsaw. All five children-Gary, Marlene, Steve, Jonita (d. 1968), and Robert- attended school there. Willard milked cows to support his family before a mail clerk and rural carrier in the Warsaw area, and then retired as postmaster at nearby Climax Springs. The Nolands believed strongly in the power of education to open doors and transform lives.