November 4, 2025
For Immediate Release
Office of Public Information/
Crowder College
Re: Crowder Foundation receives $606k donation
Neosho, MO – Crowder College Foundation is excited to announce the receipt of a $606,431 donation from the Barnes family estate.
“This gift came at the perfect time as we have been looking to address specific areas and majors where student needs are underrepresented,” stated Wade Williams, Director of Institutional Advancement. “This will produce around $24,000 annually in scholarships that align with recent enrollment trends and institutional priorities. We are grateful for this gift and the impact that it will have on the students we serve.”
Robert and Ruth (Shartel) Barnes established their trust in 1990. Robert grew up in Goodman attending school in Anderson and Neosho before graduating from Westminster College in Fulton, MO. He served in the U.S. Marine Corps during World War II and later had a successful business career in Neosho, Sallisaw, OK before retiring in Bella Vista, AR in 1981.
“Crowder College is incredibly grateful for this transformative gift,” echoed Dr. Chett Daniel, President.” Their vision recognized that Crowder’s programs of study and learning experiences provide incredible value and the ultimate return on investment – improving the lives of residents in southwest Missouri and strengthening our entire region. This gift ensures the legacy of the Barnes (Shartel) family will continue to make an impact to our area for years to come.”
The Crowder College Foundation exists for the benefit of supporting Crowder College and its students through fundraising efforts. The Foundation provides additional funding to the college that may not be otherwise available.
For more information about the Foundation call, 417.455.5606.
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