Bryan College students participating in the Bryan College Martial Arts Program will soon have access to a new scholarship opportunity through a partnership with the Order of Isshinryu Martial Arts (OIMA).
The Grandmaster Toby Cooling Memorial Scholarship will recognize and support incoming and current Bryan College students who demonstrate excellence in academics, leadership, and martial arts training.
The scholarship honors the legacy of Grandmaster Toby Cooling, a respected martial arts instructor and mentor whose lifelong commitment to discipline, character, and service has inspired generations of students.
“We are honored to partner with Bryan College to continue Grandmaster Toby Cooling’s legacy of mentorship, discipline, and service,” said John McNair, OIMA Board Secretary and Scholarship Chairman. “This scholarship is more than financial assistance—it is an investment in students who embody the perseverance, character, and lifelong learning that Grandmaster Cooling championed.”
Bryan College’s Martial Arts Program helps students grow physically, mentally, and spiritually while developing practical self-defense skills, leadership, discipline, and character in a Christ-centered environment.
“The Bryan College Martial Arts Program is dedicated to developing students physically, mentally, and spiritually,” said Zak Barnes, Director of Bryan College Martial Arts. “The Grandmaster Toby Cooling Memorial Scholarship will recognize students who are committed to that journey. We are grateful for OIMA’s partnership and the opportunity to honor Grandmaster Cooling’s lasting influence on the martial arts community.”
The scholarship will be available to qualified incoming and current Bryan College students who actively participate in the Martial Arts Program. Eligibility requirements and application details will be announced by Bryan College and OIMA.
Whether you’re an experienced martial artist or just getting started, Bryan College offers a unique opportunity to grow in skill, leadership, and faith while earning your degree.
Learn more about the Bryan College Martial Arts Program at:
bryan.edu/martialarts
Those who would like to help provide scholarship opportunities for Bryan College Martial Arts students can make a gift to the Grandmaster Toby Cooling Memorial Scholarship at:
OIMA established this scholarship to honor the life and legacy of its founder, Sensei Toby Cooling, who established the organization in 1971. Affectionately known as “Denshi” by his students, he was a lifelong learner whose career spanned the skilled trades, real estate, law enforcement, investing, and entrepreneurship. He credited his martial arts training with instilling the discipline, resilience, and character that enabled him to weather life’s storms and achieve success. A respected mentor and inspiration, his influence reached far beyond the dojo.
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