RICHMOND, Ky. — Thanks to a $100,000 gift from the Bechtel Parsons Blue Grass Joint Venture, Eastern Kentucky University has added an endowed scholarship for veterans or their families attending the school. 

"It is well known that Eastern Kentucky University offers exceptional education for veterans and their families, as evidenced by our No. 2 national ranking among Military Friendly Schools and No. 1 ranking for Best for Vets in Kentucky," said EKU President David McFaddin. "We are excited to continue our partnership with Bechtel Parsons Blue Grass Joint Venture, longtime supporters of EKU and the Richmond community. This contribution will establish a legacy, preserving our partnership and strengthening the support we can offer to our military and veteran community."

Joe Curcio, BPBGJV project manager, said Bechtel Parsons has supported the university's Office of Military and Veterans Affairs for 17 years. The university said the OMVA provides a centralized office with staff who advocate for students from the moment they receive an application until graduation and beyond.

Bechtel and Parsons work with the Department of Defense on projects in the U.S., and both companies welcome the opportunity to hire veterans, EKU said.

"Our organization recognizes the contributions and sacrifices made by veterans in service to our country," Curcio said. "This scholarship reflects our support for veterans or their families to assist them as they pursue higher levels of education. This is a gift to benefit them and EKU well into the future." 

EKU added veterans, military members and their families make up 10% of its 15,000-student body and is committed to helping veterans succeed in their academic and professional careers through programs such as the Veterans Education and Transition Support Center, VETS | Ready Opportunity Portal and Kit Carson Commons Scholar House.