Robert R. Warrender Memorial Scholarship for Winfield Students
The Robert R. Warrender Scholarship is awarded each year to a graduating senior at Winfield High School with preference given to students who have been active in vocal music, instrumental programs, or the arts.
Robert "Bob" Warrender lived in southeast Kansas his entire life. Music was his passion and his pastime. Born in Ashton, Kansas, he graduated from Arkansas City High School in 1952 and went on to receive a degree from Arkansas City Junior College (now Cowley College) culminating with bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Wichita State University. For 36 years, Bob taught instrumental music in public schools. Twenty-one of those years in Sedan. He gave private lessons in Winfield,served as pianist for Geuda Springs Community Church and a played in the Arkansas City Community Band, Senseney Band, the Shrine Concert Band, Shrine Ensemble and Shrine Dance Band of Wichita.
Having never married, Bob established this scholarship with the savings he deliberately set aside over his working life as a public school teacher. His intention was to contribute to four years of continuing education for one student from each graduating class. The eligibility requirements reflect his lifelong love of music.
All eligible applicants are considered regardless of financial need, college field of study or grade point average. Qualified recipients who are enrolled in college on full time basis and continue to do well in their chosen field of study will automatically continue to receive an awarded amount each year for four years. This scholarship may award a total of over $13,000 in the four years of study.