Contact: Bill Wagnon
The family of a veteran Arkansas outdoorsman is establishing an endowed Mississippi State scholarship for students working to preserve the sport he loved.
The university will award annually the Robert Lee "Mr. Bob" Carlton Memorial Scholarship to selected juniors and seniors in the College of Forest Resources. In addition to academic achievements, Carlton Scholars must demonstrate a desire for careers in wildlife and fisheries.
Through Robert Carlton's estate, the Carlton family has contributed to date some $20,000 to the scholarship fund.
"This scholarship is much needed and timely," said Randy Robinette, head of the department of wildlife and fisheries. "It is the first to give special preference to students enrolled in the new law enforcement option of our wildlife and fisheries sciences major."
Carlton, a longtime Eudora resident, was a former Chicot County game warden.
An avid hunter until his death in 1994 at age 92, "Mr. Bob," as he was affectionately known, was considered by many to be one of the most accomplished and avid hunters in Arkansas history. In addition to serving as a game warden, Carlton and his wife, Jewel, owned a cafe.
"He was a very special man who had a great love for wildlife, the great outdoors and young people," said Martha Carlton of Greenville [Miss.] of her uncle. "He hunted deer longer and with more success than your average hunter.
"This scholarship set up by our family will continue his legacy and touch the lives of young people who pass through the wildlife and fisheries program at Mississippi State," she added.