Col. Mike Randerson Scholarship

The Colonel Mike Randerson Scholarship is an annual endowed scholarship created to help qualified veteran students. This includes active duty military, Guard, Reserve and/or their dependents who wish to attend the college.

The endowed scholarship was established in 2014 by Columbia, Missouri, native and friend of the college, Mary McCleary Posner. Posner served as chair of the Columbia Memorial Salute to Veterans organization.

The Colonel Mike Randerson Scholarship recognizes the efforts of outstanding military students who exemplify Randerson’s dedication to service and education.

Who’s eligible

Any undergraduate or graduate Columbia College student classified as a veteran (no longer serving and honorably discharged). Active duty military, Guard, Reserve and/or dependent who wishes to attend the college may also apply.

Application

Applications must be completed by the student.

Deadline

Applications must be received no later than 5 p.m. CST, February 28.

Criteria

Submit a fully completed and signed application form.
If a veteran, submit a copy of DD214 (veteran copy) with honorable discharge status.
If currently serving, a statement of service signed by the commander for active duty, Guard and Reserves members.
An essay of up to 500 words written by the student. The essay should describe the student's personal circumstances and how education will make a difference in his/her life.
Two references as outlined in Section III of the application form.
Incomplete applications will not be reviewed.

Submission:

Mail completed application packet (application, DD214, essay and recommendations) to:

The Col. Mike Randerson Scholarship Committee
Ousley Veterans Center, MOH 226
Columbia College
1001 Rogers Street
Columbia, MO 65216

Notification

Recipients will be notified of the selection committee’s decision by way of letter by April 30.

Application Recommendation Form

Col. Mike Randerson

Col. David "Mike" Randerson was the first vice president for what was known as the Division of Adult Higher Education. He served from 1995 to 2014. Under his guidance, the number of non-traditional students enrolled in courses grew from 4,000 to 18,000. The number of learning venues nationwide grew from 17 to 35, half of which are located on military bases.

Prior to his service to Columbia College, Randerson taught aerospace studies at the University of Missouri. He also chaired the Air Force Reserves Training Corps at MU.

He spent 25 years in the U.S. Air Force. Randerson served as director of Student Affairs and professor of national security studies at Air University’s Air War College.

He retired in 1995 in the rank of colonel and is a life member of the Air Force Association.