Bob Dole, an American political icon and native of Russell, has created a scholarship at Fort Hays State University to honor his two sisters.

Dole, who was born in Russell, was severely injured while engaged in combat in Italy during World War II, receiving two Purple Hearts for his injuries, and the Bronze Star with combat “V” for valor for his attempt to assist a downed radio man.

He had a long and distinguished career in public service, serving as a member of the Kansas House, as county attorney of Russell County, as a U.S. representative and as a U.S. senator, as both minority leader and majority leader. In 1976, he ran unsuccessfully for vice president on a ticket headed by President Gerald Ford, and he was the GOP candidate for president in 1996, losing to Democrat Bill Clinton.

Most recently, Dole has created a fund with the FHSU Foundation named the Norma Jean Dole Steele and Gloria Dole Nelson Scholarship in memory of his sisters, both of whom passed away in 2012.

All undergraduate students from Russell County or who have graduated from Russell High School, in any course of study, are eligible for the $1,000 annual scholarships. Students with disabilities will be given the highest priority. A minimum grade point average of 2.5 is required.