The Western Oklahoma State College Foundation, Inc., has announced the establishment of the Thomas Reese McAlpine Scholarship Endowment Fund.
The Thomas Reese McAlpine Scholarship Endowment fund was established by Thomas’ mother, Susie McAlpine, after his untimely death in September 2023. Mrs. McAlpine contacted the Western Oklahoma State College Foundation with the desire to honor her son’s memory by creating a scholarship that would provide financial assistance to students. This endowment aims to support deserving students in achieving their educational goals, ensuring that Thomas’ legacy continues to make a positive impact on the community.
Thomas attended Western and played on the Western Pioneer Baseball team from 2007-2009. In Thomas’ early years, he was an energetic boy who loved playing baseball. As he grew, so did his love for the game. Thomas played high school baseball at Birdville High in North Richland Hills, Texas, and helped lead the team to a deep playoff run. After graduating from high school, he attended Western Oklahoma State College, where he met Coach Kurt Russell. Beyond college, Thomas traveled around the United States and halfway across the world to Australia to continue to play the game he loved. After his playing days, he made his way back to Western Oklahoma State College to work for Coach Russell and the baseball program that was the most influential part of his baseball career. In the words of Coach Russell, “Thomas made an impact on everyone who came into contact with him. He never said a negative word about anyone and was a first-class gentleman.” Thomas was a mentor, friend, and inspiration to many. He was loyal, caring, and loving. Thomas’ impact extended far beyond the baseball field and reached the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing him.
This scholarship was established to honor Thomas and his love for the game of baseball. Thomas touched many lives with his passion for baseball, witty personality, and compassion for others. The family hopes his legacy will live on in the lives of all who knew him and those who will know of him through the establishment of this scholarship.
The fund will provide scholarships to individuals involved in the Western Oklahoma State College Baseball program or meet one of the following criteria: 1) currently playing or intending to play on the Western baseball team, 2) enrolled in a pre-education major with the goal of becoming a baseball coach, or 3) demonstrate a genuine passion for the game of baseball and a desire to further their education. Additionally, the candidate must exemplify the qualities of a positive role model, including a strong work ethic and loyalty. They should exhibit excellent teamwork skills and consistently prioritize the well-being of others.
The Thomas Reese McAlpine Scholarship Endowment is administered by the Western Oklahoma State College Foundation, Inc. The Foundation is a 501(c) 3 organization and exists to generate support for the students and programs of Western Oklahoma State College. Additional contributions may be made to this Endowment to support its ongoing goals. For more information about this endowment and other ways to give, call 580-477-7704 or visit www.wosc.edu/foundation.