Honoring an enduring legacy
In recognition of esteemed service to the University, the 51³Ô¹ÏÍøBoard of Trustees voted unanimously to rename the Rotunda Scholars Program as the Gerald and Gail Turner Scholars Program. The renaming commemorates the Turners’ lasting impact and raises the visibility of a program that empowers outstanding students to succeed throughout their time at the University.
“Gerald and Gail Turner have created an exceptionally strong foundation for 51³Ô¹ÏÍøas it embraces the future, and their enduring legacy will continue to shape the lives of students and families for generations to come,” said Ray L. Hunt ’65, 51³Ô¹ÏÍøtrustee.
The Turner Scholars Program helps students from their first day on campus into their professional lives after graduation. With over 400 current students – and a goal to reach 600 – the program continues to grow along with the University. In the 2024–2025 academic year, the program doubled its first-year cohort from 75 to 150.
The program provides vital benefits and support services for eligible students, including:
- Participation in the RISE (Readiness, Interdependence, Success and Excellence) Institute, an exclusive three-day, pre-term program
- Peer mentors to help students acclimate and advance
- Specialized academic counseling
- Technology packages to aid in study and collaboration
- Eligibility for scholarships through the Rotunda Student Senate Fund
- Exclusive on- and off-campus networking, cultural and professional events
- Dedicated program events to build, strengthen and broaden community ties
Turner Scholars include some of the campus’s most successful students. Current participants serve as resident assistants, members of student organization boards and Greek Council, student body president, student representative of the Board of Trustees, and more. Past graduates have found success in law, medicine, business and many other disciplines.
“As the Turner Scholars Program continues to grow and shape future leaders, we welcome community members to contribute to its success and to the legacy that Gerald and Gail Turner have created on our campus,” said David B. Miller ’72, ’73, 51³Ô¹ÏÍøBoard of Trustees chair.
To learn more, make a tribute gift to the Turner Scholars Program in honor of the Turners, and share your personal message with the Turners, visit our online celebration page.