Giving to Union

Terry Tankersley Memorial Scholarship Fund

The Terry Tankersley Memorial Scholarship Fund is established by Dr. Mike and Jessie Tankersley of Memphis, Tennessee in order to foster Christian higher education for students at Union University and in memory of Dr. Mike Tankersley's sister, Terry Tankersley. Terry, was born March 25, 1959 and was the oldest of three children. Although her mother had no complications during her pregnancy and delivery, Terry developed seizures at 3 months of age and began falling behind in her developmental milestones. After consultation with a developmental pediatrician at the age of 3 years, her developmental delays were confirmed. Terry was born with a moderate intellectual disability and had physical features that included hemihypertrophy (half of her body was mildly larger than the other). As a result of this, any new shoe purchase in her life always required two pairs of shoes as one foot was larger than the other. During Terry's childhood years, she benefited from special education services and attended special education classes through the age of 21 years.

Growing up with an older sister with an intellectual disability had an incredible impact upon Mike Tankersley's life. His decision to pursue a career in medicine was heavily influenced by his sister. Although Terry's intellect never developed beyond that of a seven year old, she had a phenomenal memory for names and loved to socialize with friends and family. She never met a stranger that she did not like and truly saw the world with eyes of innocence and love. Thus, it was only fitting after her death in 2009 that her corneas were donated for transplantation in an individual in need of sight. The cornea is the clear dome-like window covering the front of the eye that allows light to pass through to the retina enabling us to see. Her entire life was like this as Terry was a blessing to all who met her, and we all saw life differently because of her sweet spirit.

The Terry Tankersley Memorial Scholarship will be designated for outstanding junior and senior students with a declared major of Special Education. The students must demonstrate their commitment to a lifetime of service through their exemplary academic performance (minimum GPA of 3.25) and volunteer work in their community. Students receiving the scholarship will be required to continue their volunteer work with 10 hours per semester with non-profit organizations whose mission is to assist those with learning disabilities. Please contact the Office of Student Financial Planning for application information.

Ways to Contribute

If you would like to contribute to the Terry Tankersley Memorial Scholarship,