Western Illinois announces Hunter Mason Scholarship

Thursday, September 01, 2022 | By: WIU Athletic Communications

Western Illinois University athletics has announced the creation of the 'Hunter Mason Courage Award and Scholarship', which will be presented to an upper-class student-athlete each spring who displays the characteristics and values embraced by Hunter: scholarship, community service, and most importantly, leadership through courage.

Mason, a 22-year-old Leatherneck student-athlete, passed away on May 31 due to complications from Glioblastoma, a rare form of brain cancer. He enrolled at Western Illinois in 2018 and graduated with a degree in Recreation, Park and Tourism Administration in three years and was pursuing a master's degree in Sport Management at the time of his passing.

Director of Athletics Paul A. Bubb first announced the award and scholarship, along with Jeremy Robinett, Associate Professor in Recreation, Park and Tourism Administration, at the Purple and Gold Auction on August 13.

"I believe it is appropriate to share with our alumni, parents, and friends the establishment of this award and scholarship today as Hunter would have been playing his senior season for the Leathernecks had this tragedy not occurred," stated Bubb. "When the Leathernecks go on the field at UT Martin today, I know his spirit will be with all of us."

Mason was a three-time Missouri Valley Football Conference Academic Honor Roll selection, was twice named MVFC All-Academic Honorable Mention, and was a two-time recipient of the MVFC Commissioner's Excellence List of Academic Excellence award.

Not only did Mason shine in the classroom but on the field as well, earning All-MVFC All Conference Honorable Mention at linebacker for his performance in the 2021 season. In his 29 games as a Leatherneck, Mason compiled 56 tackles, 13 for loss, nine quarterback sacks, one forced fumble and one fumble recovery.

A special tribute to Hunter Mason may be viewed and here.

Lastly, donors can access the giving form directly by texting "HONOR36" (not case sensitive) to the number 41444 to receive a secure link to contribute or they can make a donation online.

Print Friendly Version

Upcoming Events and Recent Results

Related Videos

Related Stories