Hall of Fame
Handy Mart convenience store chain founder E. J. "Buddy" Pope, Jr. and his son, Judson Pope, president of E. J. Pope and Son, Inc. have been long-time supporters of the University of Mount Olive. Both have given their time as members of the University's Board of Trustees and both have also made significant financial contributions. One of the most notable contributions by the father and son pair is the gift support that has accumulated over the past 28 years as a result of the Handy Mart Golf Tournament which has brought in over $1.7 million for scholarship support. To date, 615 students have received scholarships as a direct result of the Handy Mart Tournament. Another widely recognized measure of the Popes' longstanding support of UMO is Pope Wellness Center, which was appropriately named for the Popes as a means of appreciation for their many gifts to the University.
