DIRECTOR’S LETTER

It has been a momentous year for the Roan Program.

Perhaps most notably, it was our first without the Roan’s founder, Mr. Louie Gump, who passed away on July 20, 2022. As we adjusted to that new reality, we also continued the important work of bringing Mr. Gump’s original vision for the Roan to full fruition.

Our selection process yielded the largest entering class to date, and we anticipate bringing ten new Roan Scholars to campus for the first time next year – reaching a key milestone in Mr. Gump’s vision.

That vision also included attracting students from “within a 250-300 mile radius.” Starting in fall 2023, high school seniors from across all of Tennessee – as well as five surrounding states – are eligible to apply for the Roan. We are excited to see what new opportunities this long-desired expansion brings to current and future Roan Scholars, our program, and ETSU.

And while this past year’s growth and expansion brought about significant change, what remained constant was the level of achievement, leadership excellence, and positive impact made by Roan Scholars and Alumni.

This annual report shares many of those stories of excellence and impact – each a testament to Mr. Gump’s enduring legacy. We trust you will enjoy reading them, and we thank you for your continued friendship, partnership, and support that will sustain that legacy in the years to come.

Scott Jeffress Executive Director