General Hugh Shelton/Herman Hays Family Scholarship Endowment

In honor of General Shelton’s lifetime commitment to values-based leadership as a soldier and a veteran, the Herman Hays family is establishing the General Hugh Shelton/Herman Hays Family Scholarship Endowment in loving memory of Herman Hays. During Herman’s military service from 1949 to 1970 he was a paratrooper in the 82nd Airborne Division (America’s Guard of Honor) with over 300 static-line jumps. A combat veteran of Korea and Vietnam, his numerous awards for combat heroism and meritorious service to his country included a Bronze Star with an Oak Leaf Cluster and “V” Device and purple heart. His death was ruled service-related by the Department of Veteran Affairs due to his exposure to Agent Orange in Vietnam. With courage, selflessness, loyalty and dedication to duty, Herman chose to do all in his power to defend and preserve America’s freedom. His life reflected the spirit of Isaiah 6:8; “Also, I heard the voice of the Lord saying, who will go for us. Then said I, here am I, send me.” After retiring from active duty, he carried these same values of duty and honor into the business world where he was highly respected. He conducted himself with quiet dignity, decency, and kindness, and left many lessons of honor, self-sacrifice and generosity. His word was his bond and he was always a gentleman.

It is with great honor and respect that family and friends of Herman Hays create this endowment to serve untold generations of young values-based leaders of the General H. Hugh Shelton Leadership Center at NC State University that will reflect credit upon this legacy.