SDSU leaves a lasting impression on both faculty and students, a notion proven by Robert and Barbara Higgins. Though Robert and Barbara didn’t attend SDSU as students, the couple recognized the significant impact being made at the university. After moving to Brookings in 1969, Robert taught Electrical Engineering until 1977. Higher education is valued in the Higgins family; Barbara and Robert raised two children who grew to be teachers at Wright State and Kansas State universities.

Although Robert and Barbara journeyed to several universities over the course of their lives, SDSU held special meaning. Recognizing the obstacles Native American students may face in pursuing post-secondary education, the Higgins arranged for a scholarship to be annually gifted to a student member of a federally recognized tribe, regardless of grade point or major. Robert passed away in 2019, though his legacy with the university is carried on. Through the Higgins’ generosity, students receive the opportunity to experience all that SDSU has to offer.