Thanks to the generosity of University of Montevallo alumnus Jon Meacham, a new scholarship will help fund the education of incoming UM art students.
Meacham, a 1983 graduate of UM, has donated a gift of $100,000 to the University in order to endow a new academic scholarship to benefit new students majoring in art.
The Meacham-Metz Scholarship is named in the memory of Meacham’s father, Donald, and Montevallo Professor Emeritus Ted Metz.
Meacham, a self-employed artist based in the Birmingham area, says his post-college career was profoundly influenced by his father’s sense of work ethic and Metz’s mentorship.
“As is often said, the older you become, the more one realizes their wisdom which may not have been as appreciated in youth,” said Meacham. “My father was a successful accountant and I was aware that his dedication and hard work provided tangible positive results.”
As for Metz, Meacham says the professor was a template – a bright beacon of encouragement and support during times of artistic self-criticism.
“I am touched beyond words to have been regarded so highly by Jon and to have my name connected to his in this gift,” said Metz. “This scholarship will enhance the lives of persons not even alive yet.”
With Meacham’s gift, the UM Art Department now has a new means of funding the education and creativity of incoming freshmen and transfer students.
“The Meacham-Metz Scholarship establishes one of the largest endowment funds in support of new students majoring in art. This scholarship will make a significant contribution to our recruiting of talented new students for the many years ahead,” said UM Art Department Chair Scott Stephens.
“I’m encouraged that this will enable students to help accomplish their desires in fine arts,” said Meacham. “As has been written, ‘The journey is more valuable than the find.’”