First preference in awarding The Janie Bowling Sutton Memorial Scholarship at Barton College in Wilson is given to a graduate of Columbia High School.

The renewable scholarship, established in 1995, is awarded annually to a full-time student who has demonstrated need and leadership. Second preference is given to a nursing or education major.

The scholarship was established in memory by her husband Ernest R. Sutton and their sons Ernest Jr., Blaine and Neal.

Ernest Sutton, 88, now residing in Fayetteville, is a native of Columbia and graduated Columbia High School in 1950. He attended Atlantic Christian College – now Barton College – and graduated with a degree in political science.

Sutton had 40 years in public education, ranging from teacher to principal to assistant superintendent in various school districts. He later served as an education consultant for the State of North Carolina.

In July 2007, Sutton received the Tar Heel State’s highest honor, the Order of the Long Leaf Pine.

“Ernie is a true believer in giving back to his alma mater, which he has displayed in many ways, including the creation of three endowed scholarships,” said Thomas C. Maze, assistant vice president for leadership giving at Barton College.

The Kathleen Sutton Endowed Scholarship was established in honor of Kathy by a gift from her husband Ernest R. Sutton. The Scholarship is awarded annually to one or more Barton College undergraduate students who are majoring in nursing. It was established in April 2014.

The Ernest R. Sutton and Sons Endowed Scholarship was established by a gift from Ernest R. Sutton. This scholarship is awarded annually to one or more Barton College undergraduate students who are from the state of North Carolina. It was established in April 2017.

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