As he nears the conclusion of his career at 糖心传媒 Tech, Industrial Engineering Senior Lecturer Dr. Stan Cronk is honoring the colleague who helped shape his own journey by fully endowing the Paul Hale Industrial Engineering Scholarship. The gift reflects Cronk鈥檚 deep respect for Hale鈥檚 lasting influence on the department and secures long-term support for the students Hale dedicated his career to uplifting.
The scholarship supports students who demonstrate academic excellence, leadership, and service and this year鈥檚 recipient, junior Madelynn Russell of Bossier City, exemplifies the type of engaged student Hale encouraged. Russell is active in Greek Women in STEM, the Society of Women Engineers, and Phi Mu Alpha Lambda, and serves as president of the Industrial and Systems Engineering chapter. She also works as a grader and help desk assistant for the 120-series courses, supporting incoming students.
The Industrial Engineering curriculum continues to reflect Hale鈥檚 belief in hands-on learning and collaboration. Today, the college鈥檚 project-based learning experience for first-year students has become a hallmark of the engineering program, emphasizing teamwork, problem solving, and real-world application from the moment students arrive.
Russell shared what receiving the scholarship has meant to her as she reflects to her summer 2025 internship with Consolidated Electrical Distributors in West Monroe.
鈥淩eceiving the Paul Hale Industrial Engineering Scholarship feels like recognition for the work I have put into my studies and campus involvement, and it reminds me that the COES community believes in my potential,鈥� she said. 鈥淭hat support gives students like me the confidence to keep pursuing our goals and to show up as our best selves.鈥�
Dean Collin Wick noted that the scholarship reflects Hale鈥檚 lasting presence in the College.
鈥淒r. Hale shaped generations of engineers through his compassion, mentorship and commitment to excellence,鈥� Wick said. 鈥淗is legacy continues not only through this scholarship, but through the culture of support and integrity he helped to build in Industrial Engineering.鈥�
Cronk said endowing the scholarship was a natural decision after Hale鈥檚 passing in late 2024.
鈥淕iven what he meant to the University and to me personally, it became an easy choice,鈥� Cronk reflected. 鈥淓very year, we wish we had more scholarships to award. This allows us to support one additional deserving student.鈥�
As Russell shared, this support is more than financial assistance; it reflects the enduring spirit Hale championed and the commitment Cronk now carries forward, strengthening a legacy built on mentorship, generosity, and belief in every student鈥檚 potential.
To make a contribution to the Paul N. Hale Jr. Industrial Engineering Scholarship fund, visit