The military always honors the code that no one gets left behind. And it isn’t just limited to the battlefield.

Oklahoma State University and Folds of Honor have partnered to support the Honor Ribbon Program, expanding scholarships for qualified OSU students who are spouses and children of fallen or disabled U.S. service members and first responders.

This initiative helps close funding gaps for eligible OSU students, building upon Folds of Honor’s existing support. A transformational commitment from Folds of Honor kickstarts the effort, reinforcing one of OSU’s goals to “fund the unfunded” and create life-changing opportunities.

Since 2007, Folds of Honor has provided approximately $2.6 million in scholarships to more than 560 OSU students. This partnership will allow OSU to reach even more students with an opportunity to pursue their education without financial barriers.

“This expanded partnership reflects the very heart of Oklahoma State University’s mission,” OSU President Jim Hess said. “We are committed to providing access and opportunity for all, and this collaboration with Folds of Honor allows us to honor those who have sacrificed for our country.

“Together, we will open doors for students who embody resilience and courage.”

Lt. Col. Dan Rooney is the Folds of Honor CEO and founder. The Stillwater High School graduate and Oklahoma Air National Guard veteran said he is proud to team up with OSU.

“While we have provided nearly 73,000 academic scholarships nationwide since our inception, the need remains great,” Rooney said. “Until every qualified applicant receives the opportunity for a life-changing education, our mission continues. We are humbled that we can assist Oklahoma State students who need and desire our help.”

Every gift to the Folds of Honor Scholarship Fund at OSU strengthens this effort and helps OSU serve more students. Donor support ensures that families who have sacrificed for the nation’s safety and freedom receive the educational opportunities they deserve.

OSU junior Travis Moore is one student who has been impacted by a Folds of Honor scholarship.

His father, Harold N. Moore, is a 10-year Air Force veteran who left the service before Travis was born. Because of him, Travis has maintained a strong military presence throughout his life. They frequently go together to meet veterans Harold served with and visit military bases — including the first base where he was stationed in England.

The younger Moore always envisioned following in his dad’s footsteps and enlisting himself, but that plan ended when he was diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis at 16.

“Throughout my life, my father has kept me connected to his service and taught me to be thankful for those who are serving and have served,” Moore said. “Since the military wasn’t in my cards, I decided to reach for a different way to serve and give back to others.”

A lifelong OSU fan, Moore decided to come to Stillwater and pursue a degree in health care administration. He dreams of working for the Department of Veterans Affairs, another positive way to serve veterans and the military since he’s unable to enlist.

The Folds of Honor scholarship is pushing Moore closer to that goal.

“It is an honor to receive the Folds of Honor scholarship,” Moore said. “It’s a huge boost to reaching my goal of graduating as a Cowboy from OSU. The opportunity to reduce my college debt so I can start a career of serving others without a burden is something I am truly grateful for.

Photos by: Bruce Waterfield and Provided

Story by: Grant Ramirez | STATE Magazine