Helping Students in Times of Need

The unexpected can happen at any phase of life. For students, this can sometimes derail their education in the worst way. The Holman Memorial Student Emergencies Fund was established to help these students during times of crisis. We want every student at the University of Mississippi to be able to focus on what matters most in these situations while earning their degrees.

How You can Help

Since its establishment, the Christopher C. Holman Family Emergency Fund has helped many people at the University of Mississippi. Knowing how your generous donation can provide assistance to students and positively impact their academic experience may provide you with a sense of assurance that your gift is being used responsibly. 

One forensic science student supported by the endowment said "Since I did not have a steady source of income and no financial assistance, the fund helped with everything from finding a warm and secure place to sleep, to having food on a daily basis."

Another student, who lost multiple jobs as a result of Covid-19, was provided with rent and utility funds to assist her in completing her degree at the university. 

Your gift will aid students in their pursuit of higher education, providing them with a sense of comfort and support when they need it the most. 

The Story Behind the Holman Student Emergencies Fund

The Christopher C. Holman Memorial Endowment was established to honor the memory of the University of Mississippi alumnus. Holman's daughters chose to honor their father's memory and his love for the university by dedicating a fund to support students dealing with difficult circumstances. 

The memorial fund was created by a gift from the five sisters who hoped to ensure support for university students who find themselves in trying times, such as those affected by an unexpected illness, death of a family member, or loss of property due to natural disaster. 

"Our father was someone who always put others before himself," said Evalyn Holman. "He always wanted to ensure that others were safe, happy, and taken care of, and this endowment is a wonderful embodiment of the values by which he led his life."

Following their father's late-stage cancer diagnosis, the siblings experienced an outpouring of support from their Ole Miss family while attending the university. They hope to spread this sense of community during difficult times to other students and encourage them to maintain enrollment at the university. 

"It can be very difficult to manage schoolwork, jobs, and a normal routine when your personal life is majorly disrupted by an emergency; with this endowment gift, we hope we can alleviate some form of the stressors to students who may find themselves needing it the most," said Meredith Holman Lewis.