Dr. Bo and Tara Hannaford, along with Dr. Hannaford’s sister Kristye and her husband Tim Taylor, established the Hannaford Family Scholarship to help students graduate debt free. Dr. Hannaford is grateful for those who invested in him and is committed to paying that gift forward. Investing in students as they pursue and complete their degrees is a shared goal of the Hannaford family, reflected in their love for and dedication to Northwestern Oklahoma State University.
Growing up in Alva and being employed at Northwestern Oklahoma State University since 2011, Dr. Hannaford has a deep understanding of and appreciation for the university’s impact on the future of northwest Oklahoma. His connection to Northwestern began at a young age, as both of his grandfathers worked at the university. Dr. Hannaford graduated from Northwestern Oklahoma State University in May 1993 with a bachelor’s degree in social studies education and later earned a master’s degree in education from Northwestern in 1996. He went on to earn his doctorate in education from Walden University while balancing a full-time career and family.
Tara Hannaford also holds deep ties to Northwestern Oklahoma State University, where she serves as the Director of Financial Aid and Scholarships. Tara graduated from Northwestern in 2015 with a master’s degree in education and is an active member of the Homecoming Committee.
Dr. Hannaford’s daughter, Carson, graduated from Northwestern in December 2020 with a bachelor’s degree in English education. Carson continued working toward her master’s degree in school counseling, graduating in May 2023. Bo and Tara’s son, Tucker, is involved in multiple activities as a Goldbug at Alva High School. He will graduate in 2027.
“The Hannaford Family understands well the importance and value of scholarships,” said Skeeter Bird, CEO, Northwestern Foundation & Alumni Association. “Since Dr. Hannaford and Tara work on our campus, they know the students and their stories, and they witness firsthand how scholarship support can positively change a student’s life. The family has a long and distinguished history with Northwestern. We are grateful they have established this endowed scholarship to continue the family legacy with Northwestern Oklahoma State University in perpetuity.”
Applicants must be continuing full-time Northwestern students.
For more information on the Hannaford Family Scholarship or about investing in Northwestern students, contact Skeeter Bird at 580-327-8593 or email at [email protected].