JONESBORO — A new scholarship established at Arkansas State University (A-State) aims to support Arkansas students pursuing degrees in business and STEM fields while honoring the values of education, opportunity, and service that have marked one family’s contributions to the state.
Ronald Dedman, a 1978 graduate of A-State, and his son Mitchell Dedman, a 2011 alumnus, both of Little Rock, have created the Ronald and Mitchell Dedman Legacy Scholarship. The $50,000 endowment, funded through the Arkansas State University System Foundation, will assist undergraduate students who are Arkansas residents enrolled in on-campus programs at A-State. Recipients must maintain a minimum 2.8 GPA and will be selected through the university’s scholarship application process.
Ronald Dedman began his career as a summer intern at AT&T, working as a directory assistance operator while attending A-State. He then advanced through leadership roles over a career spanning 45 years, eventually serving as president of AT&T Arkansas from 2018 until his retirement in 2022. A native of Tuckerman, Dedman attributes much of his personal and professional success to higher education.
His son, Mitchell Dedman, is the chief executive officer of Little Rock-based Executive Services Inc., a facilities maintenance and support services company. Together, the Dedmans created the scholarship to provide long-term support for students and reflect their own shared belief in education’s transformative potential.
“Education has the power to change lives, open doors, and create opportunities that can impact generations," said Mitchell Dedman. “We believe in investing in the future, and this scholarship is our way of helping deserving students pursue their goals and build successful lives.”
For Ronald Dedman, establishing this endowment alongside his son underscores the importance of community impact and shared values. “His example of generosity, integrity, and commitment to helping others has had a lasting influence on my life, and it is fitting that this scholarship carries both of our names,” Mitchell Dedman added.
The Ronald and Mitchell Dedman Legacy Scholarship will begin awarding funds in the fall of 2026. These awards will be supported annually by the endowment and additional donor contributions.
Arkansas State University expressed gratitude to the Dedman family, emphasizing the long-term impact this scholarship will have on students striving to achieve their academic and career ambitions. For more information, contact A-State’s Office of Development at 870-972-3940 or via email at development@AState.edu.