John Holleman III’s gift inspired by generations of ties to Hendrix
ABOVE: John T. Holleman Sr., Hendrix
College Class of 1923, left; and his great-grandson Josh Holleman ’27, right, a
current member of the Hendrix College football team.
CONWAY, Ark. (October 17, 2024) – Hendrix College is
excited to announce a generous gift from John Holleman III, a dedicated
supporter and parent of a current student-athlete, to fund the inaugural
Director of Development for Athletics position. This gift will underwrite the
role for its first few years, marking a critical step in the College’s efforts
to strengthen relationship-building and fundraising efforts for Warriors
Athletics.
Holleman’s gift is a reflection of his family’s deep ties to
Hendrix and their belief in the value of athletics in shaping well-rounded
students. Their family legacy at Hendrix can be traced back to 1891, when the
College’s records show John B. Holleman, great-great-grandfather of John III,
was enrolled as a student. John III’s father, John T. Holleman Jr. ’51, played
football at Hendrix, as did his grandfather, John T. Holleman Sr., who graduated
from Hendrix in 1923. Now John III’s son, Josh Holleman ’27, plays football for
the Warriors.
“Given our family’s historical connection with Hendrix, it
was the least we could do to make this investment in athletics,” said Holleman.
“Josh and I need every blessing we can get in our lives, and I’ve never failed
to receive blessings back at least tenfold on every dollar I’ve contributed to
a good cause like Hendrix Athletics.”
Josh Holleman has a decorated high school football career,
earning four state championship rings at Pulaski Academy. Even after his
success in a nationally ranked high school football program, Josh was moved by
the community and camaraderie he found at Hendrix.
“He came home after his first semester and told me, with
tears in his eyes, ‘Dad, I never imagined I would ever find again the love of
my coaches, teammates, and the game like I experienced at Pulaski Academy,”
Holleman said. “‘But I’ve found it here again at Hendrix.’”
After hearing that, Holleman was inspired to do everything
he could to support the Warriors Athletics program. His gift will not only fund
the Director of Development for Athletics but will also play a crucial role in
helping Hendrix engage with student-athlete alumni, parents, and friends of the
program to drive future support and success.
“We are a football family through and through, but I’m eager
to become involved in supporting all the sports Hendrix offers,” said Holleman.
“In a time when our country feels more divided than ever, sports programs like
those at Hendrix are as important as academic lessons. Sports have the power to
unite people, foster relationships, and bring hope.”
Hendrix Athletic Director Amy Weaver expressed her gratitude
for the gift and emphasized its impact on the future of Warrior Athletics.
“This is an incredible investment in the future of our student-athletes and the
entire athletics program,” said Weaver. “The new Director of Development for
Athletics is pivotal in building relationships with alumni and supporters,
ensuring that our teams continue to thrive, and that Hendrix Athletics remains
a source of pride for our community.”
Tyler Gum began work in
August as the inaugural Director of Development for Athletics. His role
currently focuses on launching the Warriors Athletic Club as a structured means
of support and connection, in addition to seeking funding to endow head
coaching positions.
Dr. Meredith Brunen, Vice President for Advancement at
Hendrix, also highlighted the significance of this gift. “John’s generosity
sets a new benchmark for our efforts in athletic fundraising. His belief in the
power of athletics to shape leaders and create lasting bonds within the Hendrix
community is inspiring.” Brunen added, “This gift will enable us to grow our
support base and ensure that Hendrix Athletics has the resources needed to
succeed both on and off the field.”
Holleman emphasized his belief in the value of athletics
with a quote from Nelson Mandela: “Sport has the power to change the world...
It speaks to youth in a language they understand. Sport can create hope where
once there was only despair.”
Hendrix College is immensely grateful for the Holleman
family’s gift, which will ensure that athletics at Hendrix continue to thrive.
The new Director of Development for Athletics will play a key role in engaging
the community and ensuring continued support for the College’s athletic
programs. To learn more about supporting Warriors Athletics, visit the Warriors
Athletic Club online.
About Hendrix College
Founded in 1876, Hendrix College is featured in Colleges
That Change Lives: 40 Schools That Will Change the Way You Think About Colleges
and celebrated among the country’s leading liberal arts colleges for academic
quality, engaged learning opportunities and career preparation, vibrant campus
life, and value. The Hendrix College Warriors compete in 21 NCAA Division III
sports. Hendrix has been affiliated with the United Methodist Church since
1884. Learn more at www.hendrix.edu.
“… Through engagement that links the classroom
with the world, and a commitment to diversity, inclusion, justice, and
sustainable living, the Hendrix community inspires students to lead lives of
accomplishment, integrity, service, and joy.” —Hendrix College Statement of Purpose