This scholarship originated in 1988 at the suggestion of Philip Gabbard in memory of Bill Reese for Instrumental music majors and non-majors. Bill Reese was a graduate of Abilene Christian University in 1967, drum major and trombone player for the Big Purple Band all four of his college years. Marine 2nd Lt. William Robert Reese was killed in action in the Vietnam War on February 14, 1968.
The first scholarship award was given from the earnings of this endowment in 1992. This scholarship has become a prestigious award given to a student for their contribution to the Big Purple Band. The students are chosen in the spring (announced at the Band Banquet in May) for the following school year. The Director of Bands, Associate Director and staff make the selection based on leadership, academic achievement and servant characteristics.
2018-2019 Alli Mae Bulkley
2017-2018 Meghan Starteri
2016-2017 James Loera
2015-2016 Grayson Hancock
2014-2015 Andrew Penney
2013-2014 Daniel Archer
2012-2013 Courtney McGaha
2009-2010 Jaylynn Phillips
2008-2009 Paul Arrington, Alex Ferguson, Evan Woods
2007-2008 Leah Walter
2006-2007 Sam Selby
2005-2006 Lesiree Guerrero
2004-2005 Chris Brannan
2003-2004 Bradley Hardin, Andrew Straight
2002-2003 James Sumners, April Yarbrough
2001-2002 Jacob Faske, Karen Phipps
2000-2001 Kevin Broome, Amber McDonald
1999-2000 Kevin Broome
1998-1999 Marcus Carroll
1997-1998 Kevin Whitelaw
1996-1997 Brian Nuckels
1995-1996 Chris Carroll
1994-1995 Russell Willerton
1993-1994 Joe Hooten
1992-1993 Joe Hooten, Kelly Neill