Kenneth W. and Lena Heikes Family
Ken and Lena Heikes have called Billings, Montana, home since moving from Pocatello, Idaho, in 1966. Ken served as Chief Financial Office at MSU Billings in a career that spanned 26 years. Following retirement from the University, he served as Planned Giving Officer at the MSU Billings Foundation. Lena taught home economics at Riverside Middle School for 14 years. Ken played an active role in the MSU Billings Foundation since its inception in 1968. He was one of its original founders, served on the organization’s first board, and over the years held various positions as director, secretary and treasurer.
In 1991, the Kenneth W. Heikes Family Endowed Scholarship was established. The endowment was structured to award a scholarship to a business major in even numbered years and to an education major in odd numbered years, alternating the award from year to year, reflecting the Heikes’ dual career interests. Ken and Lena have quietly given time and energy to the MSU Billings Foundation and the University for decades. In retirement, their generosity continues. The first scholarship was awarded in academic year 1996-1997.
Impact
“Thank you so very much for the Kenneth W. Heikes Family College of Business Endowed Scholarship. This scholarship means so much to me and my family. Words cannot express the gratitude I have to have been chosen for this scholarship. Not only is the money helpful to me but it is also an investment for you. Like you, I hope to give back to those in financial need when I start my career in accounting. Thank you again, Mr. and Mrs. Heikes, for your generosity in providing this scholarship for myself and for students past and future. Your kindness makes a big difference in our lives.” — Amber H., Accounting major