The Friend of the University award is the highest award presented by Southeast. On March 24, at the annual President’s Council Dinner, the award will be presented to two alumni, Harold and Hermena (Parks) Hiligans.

According to semo.edu, the award is given to those who support and work closely with SEMO’s mission, purposes, plans and programs.

Dr. Vargas said he is grateful for their recurring interest in helping students and the campus.

With their generosity and long-time commitment to education, the couple has established ‘The Holigan Family Scholarship’ for students who graduate from their hometown of Puxico, Missouri with a minimum 2.75 GPA and wish to continue their education at SEMO.