Lee University has established the Dr. Mark Williams Annual Scholarship through a $500,000 gift from David and Debi Tinsley, whose three children are Lee alumni, to support students pursuing degrees in the School of Theology & Ministry. 
 
The endowed scholarship will provide financial assistance to students pursuing degrees in theology and ministry, with priority given to School of Theology & Ministry majors. The scholarship was established to support the continued development of theological education and ministry preparation at Lee while honoring the ministry and leadership of Dr. Mark L. Williams. 
  
“We are grateful to David and Debi Tinsley for their generosity and their commitment to invest in students who are preparing for ministry,” said Lee President Dr. Phil Cook. “This scholarship represents not only a significant financial gift but also a lasting investment in the future of theological education and the students who will carry that calling forward.” 
  
The Tinsleys said their family’s experience with the university inspired their decision to invest in future generations of students. 
  
“As parents, we have witnessed in all three of our children the benefits of a Lee University education,” said David Tinsley. “We’ve seen firsthand how Lee educates both the head and the heart, preparing students to lead with integrity, strong Christian values, and a commitment to serving others. We wanted to help make that same opportunity possible for future students.” 
  
The Tinsleys’ children – Grace, Matthew, and Bailea – have continued building on their Lee education. Grace and Bailea later earned law degrees, while Matthew earned a Master of Business Administration degree. 
  
The scholarship honors Williams, a 1986 Lee graduate whose decades of service have included numerous leadership roles within the Church of God and at Lee University. He currently serves as third assistant general overseer of the Church of God after previously serving as general overseer from 2012-16 and second assistant general overseer from 2008-12. He also has served on the denomination’s Council of Eighteen and as a member of Lee University’s Board of Directors. Williams earned a Bachelor of Arts from Lee, a Master of Divinity and Doctor of Ministry from Pentecostal Theological Seminary, and he received an honorary Doctor of Divinity from Lee in 2010. 
  
Tinsley said Williams’ character and ministry made him the natural choice to be honored through the scholarship. 
  
“After hearing Bishop Mark Williams preach and later getting to know him personally, I was struck not only by his knowledge and passion, but by his genuine humility,” said Tinsley. “He is a remarkable leader whose life has inspired countless people. We hope this scholarship will encourage and equip students who are called to serve Christ and His Kingdom with that same spirit of faithful leadership.” 
  
Recipients will be selected through a nomination process overseen by a committee appointed by the university president. The number of scholarships awarded and the amount of each award will be determined annually based on the endowment’s available earnings.