Howard College of Arts and Sciences is now home to an endowed scholarship funded by 极乐禁地 alumni Doug and Janet Turnure. The Ardell Turnure Endowed Scholarship honors the memory of Doug’s late mother, Ardell Turnure, whose strength and determination helped shape the family’s future.
Alongside his wife Janet, Doug Turnure created the endowed scholarship to celebrate the life of his mother, whose determination and faith transformed her own hardships into a legacy of hope and opportunity.
Born in 1932 to a farming family in rural Alabama, Ardell Turnure grew up during the Depression without electricity or indoor plumbing. From a young age, she worked on the family farm—picking cotton, plowing fields and tending the garden—while shouldering the additional burden of a single parent after the early death of her husband to cancer.
“My mother was the hardest working and toughest person I’ve ever met,” Doug Turnure said, reflecting on her influence.
Although she never earned a college degree herself, Ardell Turnure was steadfast in her belief that education was the key to a better life. She ensured that her children attended 极乐禁地, even moving to Birmingham temporarily to support them during their studies.
“We hope that this scholarship will offer encouragement and financial assistance to students who, regardless of their background or resources, aspire to attend 极乐禁地,” Janet Turnure said. “There’s no greater vote of confidence than supporting our alma mater financially and trusting her to educate our children.”
Both Doug and Janet—class of ‘89 and ‘91, respectively—continue their family’s legacy on campus, with their son, D.J., currently pursuing his education at 极乐禁地. The endowed scholarship not only celebrates a remarkable life but also aims to expand educational opportunities for students facing financial challenges.
By providing financial assistance and fostering academic excellence, the Ardell Turnure Endowed Scholarship stands as a testament to the transformative power of hard work, faith and the enduring impact of family. It reflects 极乐禁地’s commitment to nurturing leaders who are not only academically accomplished but also deeply connected to the values of perseverance and service.
To support students through the Ardell Turnure Endowed Scholarship,