As he nears the conclusion of his career at Louisiana 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’s deep respect for Hale’s 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’s 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’s belief in hands-on learning and collaboration. Today, the college’s 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.
“Receiving 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,” she said. “That support gives students like me the confidence to keep pursuing our goals and to show up as our best selves.”
Dean Collin Wick noted that the scholarship reflects Hale’s lasting presence in the College.
“Dr. Hale shaped generations of engineers through his compassion, mentorship and commitment to excellence,” Wick said. “His legacy continues not only through this scholarship, but through the culture of support and integrity he helped to build in Industrial Engineering.”
Cronk said endowing the scholarship was a natural decision after Hale’s passing in late 2024.
“Given what he meant to the University and to me personally, it became an easy choice,” Cronk reflected. “Every year, we wish we had more scholarships to award. This allows us to support one additional deserving student.”
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’s potential.
To make a contribution to the Paul N. Hale Jr. Industrial Engineering Scholarship fund, visit https://bit.ly/4pHoYDF