Grantham University Awards Two $5,000 Scholarships to Honor Army Specialist Who Died in Action in 2011

By Brandon Swenson

Lenexa, Kan., Sept. 25, 2020 — Grantham University, an online university, announced the first two winners of 2020 for its Spencer C. Duncan Make it Count Scholarship. Michelle Cameron, from Clarksville, Tennessee, is currently working toward a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice, while Matthew Lundell, from Sterling, Alaska, is working toward his master’s degree in business administration. Both are United States Army veterans.

“After I retire from the military, my plan is to work in corrections and focus on drug rehabilitation programs and reformation,” said Cameron. “I chose Grantham because of the academic advisors and professors' understanding of the needs of those who served in the military, as well as its flexible schedule and short class terms. Throughout my time at Grantham, I’ve been able to set a positive example not only for my children but also for other soldiers and share the importance of getting an education and never giving up.”

“I started my educational journey with Grantham in 2014,” said Lundell. “I previously earned a bachelor’s degree in multidisciplinary studies and a master’s degree in healthcare administration from Grantham due to the high level of care provided by its academic advisors and professors. Grantham is passionate about each student and their individual success, and I am confident that it will provide me the education needed to excel in a career in hospital executive administration.”

The Spencer C. Duncan Make it Count Scholarship is offered to four deserving applicants each year in honor of Spencer C. Duncan, an army specialist who passed away while serving. Two scholarships are awarded during the first half of the year, and two more during the second half. To carry on Spencer’s legacy and to honor his spirit of sacrifice, applicants must currently serve, or have previously served, in any branch of the United States Armed Forces, or be a direct family member of a person who has served and lost their life. In addition, applicants were asked to write an essay on what “Making it Count” means to them. The scholarship, valued at $5,000, covers tuition costs, required textbooks, software and fees.

“We are thankful for Michelle and Matthew's service as members of the Army, and we are honored that they chose Grantham for their education,” said Dr. Anthony R. Petroy, president and chief academic officer of Grantham University. “We wish them both continued success as they earn their degrees.”

About Grantham University: Founded in 1951 by WWII veteran Donald Grantham, Grantham University provides online higher education for all adult learners, including our nation’s military for whom the university was established. Designated in 2019 as a Purple Heart University, Grantham boasts a diverse student body, approximately half being military-affiliated. For anyone balancing education with a demanding lifestyle, Grantham is the solution with its flexible online learning environment, monthly course starts, 60+ degree and certificate programs, and one of the lowest tuitions in the country¹.

Accredited by the Distance Education Accrediting Commission, Grantham continues to receive programmatic accreditations as it evolves its education offerings to meet marketplace demands.