Verne M. and Lorene Dykes Gleason Endowed Scholarship

Darryl Gleason established this scholarship in honor of his parents, Verne and Lorene Gleason. Verne and Lorene grew up in Stafford County, where they farmed for more than 50 years. Both loved music and encouraged their children to take piano lessons. Lorene was musically gifted, playing the piano and singing. An activities therapist at the state hospital in Larned, Kansas, Lorene used music as part of the therapeutic process. Verne instilled a strong work ethic in his children and a sense of civic responsibility. Darryl studied piano for 13 years with Melba Cornwell Budge, who worked with Dr. Steinbauer, a professor at Wichita State. Though neither Darryl nor his parents attended WSU, Darryl wanted to give back to the Wichita community. He felt this scholarship was a great way to do that, while also honoring his parents. Active in the Heart of America men’s chorus and a volunteer for Wichita Grand Opera, Darryl has designated that this scholarship be awarded to students in the WSU School of Music.