251 ORGANIZATIONS Since 1985, the Walton International Scholarship program was part of Harding University’s mission of service. The program was started by Sam Walton’s vision to give young people in Central America an opportunity to be exposed to democracy and capitalism. The goal of the program was to instill these values in up to 60 students each year in hopes that they would take their knowledge to their home country. Since 1994, the program was headed by Dr. Nicky Boyd, who implemented the principles Walton instilled and personalized the scholars’ experience. For 28 years, Boyd was able to impact over 500 Central American students, whether that was by inviting them into his home for Christmas parties or visiting with them and their families back in their home country. “I hope that I’ve treated them all fairly, and I hope that they could see a little bit of Jesus from me,” Boyd said. The head of the Walton International Scholarship program retires. With the conclusion of the 2021-22 school year, Boyd retired from his duties with the Walton Program and a new director was appointed. Dr. David Collins, the former executive vice president of the University, stepped into the role. Collins hoped to enter the position with the same level of intentionality as his predecessor. The succession from Boyd to Collins was reminiscent of their real life relationship as coach and athlete. Boyd was Collins’ basketball coach in junior high. Having learned from him at a young age, Collins was excited to continue to follow in his footsteps. “He has done an outstanding job, not only directing the program and handling the operations of it, but also recruiting outstanding students and serving them and looking out for them in every way,” Collins said. “So, having watched him, I am really excited about moving the program forward.” When asked what he would bring to the table, Collins wanted to focus more on student experience. “How can we make things better for them and easier to transition to Harding from back home?” Collins said. “At the end of their time, how can we help them find employment back home?” These were the questions that he planned to focus on throughout his tenure. He also stated that he wanted to grow closer with his students by learning Spanish. “I am not a Spanish speaker; however, I am committed,” Collins said. “The students have challenged me in a fun way to work on my Spanish.” Collins was dedicated to fostering relationships with his students. Sophomore Asaf Lopez appreciated the work that Collins put into getting to know the scholars. “Dr. Collins was a student when the first generation of Walton Scholars came to campus,” Lopez said. “He knows the experience of a Walton Scholar. Dr. Collins has already invited us into his home, and we’ve had dinner. If I’m ever struggling, I feel like he’s one that could listen and help me. I am grateful for Dr. Boyd and everything he has done, but I think this new presence will be a good refresh for the Walton Program.” Written by: Janae Bradshaw BEST WISHES BOYD
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