Shenandoah University Creates Free Market Scholars Program with Assistance from BB&T Corporation
BB&T Corporation has donated $150,000 to Shenandoah University to aid in the creation of the BB&T Free Market Scholars Program; SU will offer scholarships for 10 students per academic year
BB&T Corporation, headquartered in Winston-Salem, N.C., recently donated $150,000 to Shenandoah University to aid in the creation of the BB&T Free Market Scholars Program at the university. The funds will support a student scholarship program and a public education program on the moral foundations of capitalism.
The contribution, to be paid in annual installments of $37,500 over the next four years, will allow Shenandoah University to offer scholarships for 10 students per academic year. Student selection will be based on financial need, academic record, a strong work ethic and interest in capitalism.
The students will be required to take a course on the moral foundations of free enterprise including the work of Ayn Rand, in particular her 1957 book "Atlas Shrugged." The course, taught by Professor Clifford F. Thies, Eldon R. Lindsay Chair of Free Enterprise at the Harry F. Byrd, Jr. School of Business, will also be open to any other interested students at Shenandoah.
"In recent years, in economics, management science, political science and related disciplines, we have begun to explore the dynamics of interpersonal relationships," said Thies. "I hope to imbue the course with the passion of Ayn Rand, through some of her dramatic works, so we can go beyond what would otherwise be merely rational and scientific."
According to BB&T Chairman John Allison, many students graduating with business degrees understand the "technology" of business but lack a clear grasp of the ethical principles underlying free markets.
Another component of the Free Markets Scholars Program will be an annual public workshop or lecture at Shenandoah University on Ayn Rand's philosophy of objectivism and capitalism, which will be open to the university community as well as the public.
Share