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Nugent Scholarship to provide assistance for students in College of Professional Studies

G. David England | 

An endowed memorial scholarship has been established to support students in Lipscomb University’s College of Professional Studies.

The university established the scholarship in memory of Michael Andrew Nugent, who was enrolled in the College of Professional Studies at the time of his death in January 2018 at age 28.

"Michael Nugent was like many of our students-- a young person in his twenties raising a child, working full time, and trying to finish his degree so he could advance in his career,” said Nina Morel, professor of education and dean of the College of Professional Studies.

Michael Nugent

“The faculty and staff who interacted with him were impressed by his warm personality, work ethic, and his desire to help others. He loved Lipscomb and the relationships he built here, and he would have been so happy to know that this scholarship in his memory will help other students get the same kind of education he valued so much," Morel said.

In addition to memorializing Mr. Nugent, establishing the scholarship is intended to encourage students who reflect his determination to complete his education and his spirit of service to others, Morel said. Preference in awarding the scholarship will be given to students who exemplify his characteristics.

Mr. Nugent was a native of Hilton Head Island, South Carolina and graduated from Cardinal Mooney High School, Sarasota, Florida.

Nugent Tree

“Where he was, he shone,” his family wrote. “When Michael entered a room, his energy and charisma brightened each corner. He understood the importance of a good friend and did his best to be a great one, offering his light to lift those he loved. As a student, as an athlete and as a friend, he gave everything.”

Mr. Nugent is survived by his son, Callen; his parents, Helen and Kevin Nugent; his brother, Alex; his grandmother, Mary Louise Nugent and a large extended family.

The College of Professional Studies offers online and hybrid programs that help working students hone their professional and academic competencies while earning an undergraduate or graduate degree. The unique CORE assessment center is a one-day simulation of workplace interactions and challenges that allows students to demonstrate the competencies they have already developed. Students may earn up to 30  undergraduate or six graduate credits in only one day, offering significant time savings for the busy adult who is balancing work and family obligations.

To contribute to the Nugent Scholarship, visit www.lipscomb.edu/gift. Under “Select an Area,” choose “Other.” In the box that appears, enter “Michael Nugent Scholarship.”