Established 2018
This scholarship fund is a part of the CFMT General Scholarship Application that is open annually from December 1st to February 1st.
Eligibility: Graduating seniors who reside in Logan and Muhlenberg counties in Kentucky who are planning to pursue post-secondary education at an accredited college/university, community college, or vocational school. Ben left this world on November 29, 2016, but his legacy of caring, giving back, and making a difference continue through his family and this scholarship fund.
History: The Ben T. Harris Memorial Scholarship fund was created to honor the memory of Ben T. Harris who found great joy in helping others. Born and raised in Logan County, Kentucky, Ben was a member of the 1961 graduating class of Lewisburg High School. Upon graduation, he entered the workforce followed by a tour in Vietnam. Ben worked hard and pursued excellence in every endeavor always keeping an eye out for ways to further his education. His strong work ethic and his desire to make the most of every opportunity led him to take some business classes where he readily applied himself to learning in every situation. His commitment to hard work and perseverance propelled him into a career as a successful businessman and philanthropic member of the Metropolitan Nashville Community.
One of his greatest educational achievements was his completion of the Advanced Management Program-International Senior Management Program at Harvard University in 1995. This transformational opportunity prepared him for serving as Chairman, President, and CEO of Genesco, Inc. Even as his personal successes moved forward, Ben always took the time to get to know the people around him and make it a point to look for ways to make a difference in the lives of those he worked with and in his community.
Ben understood the value of giving back, not just in the workplace but in his family, church, community, and friendships. He also understood how opportunities for continuing education can make a difference in a person’s life. After his retirement, Ben returned to his home state of Kentucky where he remained an active member of his community until his passing. He lived a life that made a difference and it is with this in mind that his wife, Ruth Harris, and daughters, Allison Miller and Emily Parker, desire to continue his legacy by offering a scholarship as a springboard for graduating seniors from Logan and Muhlenberg Counties in Kentucky. Ben left this world on November 29, 2016, but his legacy of caring, giving back, and making a difference continue through his family and this scholarship fund.
