Ruth Kolpin-Rubison was one of Southwest Missouri's pioneers in broadcasting. Her long career included work in radio, television and cable television in two states. She was recognized as the recipient of the first Pioneer Broadcaster Award from Missouri Southern in 1997. The pioneer award recognizes individuals who made significant contributions to the development of the local broadcast industry.
When the scholarship was established, Communication Dept. Head Dr. Jay Moorman said, "The Department of Communication is thrilled to have this recognition of our program. We are excited that Mrs. Kolpin-Rubison's timely contribution will enable deserving students in the future to follow her example of hard work and broadcasting skill."
The endowed scholarship through the Missouri Southern Foundation was established by the Ruth I. Kolpin Foundation Board of Directors. The generous donation allows for a substantial annual scholarship for deserving students, provided from the income of the principal amount of the endowment.
2024-2025 - Sadie Heisner
2023-2024 - Alex Culbertson, Sadie Heisner
2022-2023 - No Award
2021-2022 - No Award
2020-2021 - No Award
2019-2020 - Raeann Garrison-Law and Dillon Noblett
2018-2019 - Kristen Fidler and Ashlea Zumwalt
2017-2018 - Catherine Kelley and Oliver Wallace
2016-2017 - Brianna Allen and Alecia Henson
2015-2016 - Brianna Allen and Tanya Lyon
2014-2015 - Kristen Hanna and Brandon Stokes
2013-2014 - Shonte Clay and Clint DeNisco
2012-2013 - Abigail Warner and Xiaoyu (Jaimie) Wu
2011-2012 - Justin Coale and Kwinna Glades
2010-2011 - Jordon Schultz and Emily Seigel
2009-2010 - Patricia Pham and Brooke Lairmore
2008-2009 - Adrienne Martz and Casey Ellett
2007-2008 - Jarrod Griswold and Albert "Charlie" Natividad
2006-2007 - Megan Harrison and Danielle Dunn
2005-2006 - Brett Gilbertson
2004-2005 - Darren Gibbs
