Billy Hayes, a trustee of the Kennesaw State University (KSU) Foundation and former Alumni of the Year, has established a new scholarship to support students pursuing healthcare careers at KSU. Hayes, who began his studies in the Executive MBA program in 1999, faced health challenges during his time as a student but received significant support from faculty.
“The professors could have easily required me to restart the program, but they worked with me to catch up,” said Billy Hayes. “That experience fostered a deep connection and gratitude for KSU that I still carry today.”
Billy and his wife, Wanda Hayes, were inspired to create the scholarship after meeting a nursing student at a KSU baseball game who spoke about how financial support motivated him academically.
“He spoke with such pride about the support he received, which made him want to achieve even more,” Wanda said. “That conversation solidified our decision to establish a scholarship.”
The couple’s $100,000 donation will fund the Excellence in Healthcare Scholarship. The award is open to students in either the Michael J. Coles College of Business or Wellstar College of Health and Human Services who are preparing for clinical or business roles in healthcare.
“If we can change even one person’s life the way that student described, it will be our best investment ever,” Billy Hayes said.
The Hayes family has contributed to several university initiatives over the years, including supporting athletics and serving on advisory boards. Billy Hayes’ involvement with KSU includes membership on both the Coles College of Business advisory board and the Board of Trustees for the KSU Foundation.
For Billy Hayes, higher education holds personal significance; this fall, two of his children and his granddaughter enrolled at KSU. Upon their graduation, all seven children in their blended family will have completed college degrees.
“We deeply value higher education, and Kennesaw State embodies the excellence we want to support,” Billy said.
