Henderson State University names College of Aviation, Science, and Nursing
by June 5, 2025 8:44 pm 220 views
Henderson State University announced Thursday (June 5) the naming of its College of Aviation, Science, and Nursing as the Lorraine and Troy Caver College of Aviation, Science, and Nursing, honoring Dr. Troy Caver, a 1962 alumnus, and his late wife, Lorraine.
The naming recognizes a transformational multi-million-dollar planned gift commitment from Dr. Caver, representing the largest estate contribution to date in the university’s history.
The gift will endow and support critical priorities within the college, including advanced technology and equipment, new academic programs, student internships and travel, faculty development, and scholarships.
“Dr. Caver’s love for his alma mater is evident in every conversation, every visit, and now in this transformational commitment that will leave a lasting legacy at Henderson,” said Dr. Trey Berry, Chancellor of Henderson State University. “His remarkable generosity will impact generations of Reddies — empowering students and faculty in aviation, science, and nursing for decades to come. We are deeply grateful for Dr. Caver’s trust and confidence in Henderson State University and honored to carry his vision forward through the Caver College. His life of service, success, and generosity embodies the very best of the Reddie Spirit.”
A native of Amity, Arkansas, and graduate of Henderson State Teachers College, Dr. Caver built a distinguished 20-year military career, retiring as a Lieutenant Colonel before becoming a nationally recognized engineer, entrepreneur, and executive.
He has led or advised on major national defense and aerospace projects — including the B-2 bomber and International Space Station — while founding four successful companies and managing more than $12 million in personal assets.
For more than three decades, Dr. Caver has actively supported Henderson through scholarships, academic enrichment funds, and ROTC awards.
“Henderson gave me a strong academic foundation and an opportunity to achieve,” said Dr. Caver. “The personal attention given by the Henderson’s faculty based on my situation and needs at the time were influential in being attentive to the needs of others along my way. This gift is my way of giving back, and I hope it inspires students to embrace excellence, perseverance, and the desire to lift others along the journey through life.”
In tribute to Dr. Caver’s legacy, the Arkansas State University System Board of Trustees approved the naming at its meeting on Thursday, June 5, 2025.
A formal celebration of the Lorraine and Troy Caver College of Aviation, Science, and Nursing will be held on the Henderson State University campus on Thursday, August 14. More details will be announced in the coming weeks.
The Caver College of Aviation, Science, and Nursing at Henderson State University offers degrees in aviation (professional pilot and management), computer engineering, computer sciences, engineering (general, electrical, and mechanical), health sciences, natural sciences (biology and pre-professional studies), nursing, and physics.