Indiana University Senior Chosen to Receive 2023 Rose Bowl Game Keith Jackson Postgraduate Scholarship

The Tournament of Roses Association named Ariana Cowper, a standout Sports Marketing and Management senior at Indiana University, as the recipient of the prestigious 2023 Rose Bowl Game Keith Jackson Postgraduate Scholarship. 

The scholarship not only recognizes Cowper’s exceptional academic achievements but also paves the way for her future endeavors in the sports industry.

Cowper, a varsity rower for the Indian University Hoosiers, stood out among candidates from Big Ten or Pac-12 institutions, securing a $10,000 scholarship to support her postgraduate education in an institution of her choice. 

In addition to the monetary award, she will embark on a unique work-study experience at the 2024 Playoff Semifinal at the Rose Bowl Game presented by Prudential.

The scholarship, now in its fourth year, seeks to honor individuals who have demonstrated excellence in both academics and sports and aspire to make a mark in the sports industry. The rigorous application process considered personal essays, academic records, and other relevant materials.

Ariana Cowper, with an impressive track record as a senior Sports Marketing and Management major, plans to graduate in May 2024. Her dedication extends beyond the classroom and sports arena, as she has served as a social media and digital intern for IU Athletics. 

“Ariana has proven that she has an unwavering commitment to excellence in the classroom, in athletics, and in volunteering, and is a deserving recipient of the Rose Bowl Game Keith Jackson Scholarship,” Alex Aghajanian, the 2024 President of the Tournament of Roses, said. “The Tournament of Roses, along with our partners at the Big Ten and Pac-12, are thrilled to honor her for all her hard work and help her on her journey to graduate school and beyond.”

Standing at 6’4”, Cowper played center for the Winchester Community High School Falcons basketball team before signing up for the Hoosiers in 2019. She was also on the cross-country and softball teams in high school. 

Cowper has also been involved in various community initiatives, such as Read Across America, Hoosiers Out Loud, and Women Impacting Others, showing her commitment to making a positive impact.

The scholarship is named in honor of broadcaster Keith Jackson, the iconic voice of college football for several generations. Known for his memorable catchphrases and his role in popularizing the Rose Bowl Game as “The Granddaddy of Them All,” Jackson left an indelible mark on the sport. The scholarship, funded by the Pasadena Tournament of Roses, pays homage to Jackson’s legacy and commitment to college football.

For more information, visit https://tournamentofroses.com/.