Dr. Elijah M. & Barbara J. Bowen Memorial Scholarship
Join the Commitment
About the Scholarship
We are proud to announce the establishment of the Dr. Elijah M. & Barbara J. Bowen Memorial Scholarship Fund at the Gratiot County Community Foundation. This fund, created by Tom and Ulli Bowen in collaboration with the Bowen family, promotes the legacy of two remarkable individuals who dedicated their lives to serving their community and raising a family steeped in education and compassion.
Dr. Elijah Bowen was not only a practiced veterinarian who cared for the animals of Ithaca and the surrounding areas, but he was also a committed leader in the educational sphere, serving on the Ithaca School Board for numerous years, including a term as president. He was also an active member of the Ithaca Rotary Club until his unfortunate death in 1980 at the age of 55. His passion for education and community extended beyond his professional life; he was a caring father who raised five children alongside his beloved wife, Barbara, affectionately known as Jo. Jo not only supported her husband in his veterinary practice but also devoted herself entirely to nurturing their bustling family. Her warmth and dedication to her children shaped them into the successful individuals they are today.
The Dr. Elijah M. & Barbara J. Bowen Memorial Scholarship Fund is designed to provide financial assistance to high school graduates and college students from Gratiot County who aspire to pursue careers in any allied health field. We seek to support those dedicated students who exhibit high character and a strong commitment to their community—qualities that embody the spirit of the Bowens.
As we reflect on the profound impact that Dr. and Mrs. Bowen had on their family and the community, we invite those who share a similar commitment to excellence and service to apply for this scholarship. Together, we can continue to carry forward the Bowens’ legacy of compassion, education, and community involvement through the next generation of healthcare professionals.
Number of Awards and Value
This is a new scholarship fund at the Foundation. The first scholarship will be awarded in the 2025 scholarship cycle.
Requirements
The scholarship will be awarded based on the following criteria for eligibility:
- Graduate of a Gratiot County high school, including graduating seniors, pursuing post-secondary education at a college, university, or vocational school.
- Preference is given to graduates of Ithaca High School, but not to the absolute exclusion of others.
- For pursuit of undergraduate or graduate education in any allied health profession, including, but not limited to, veterinary medicine, physical therapy, nursing, dentistry, pharmacology, medicine, etc.
- Demonstrate high moral character and provide evidence of service to community.
- In 500 to 1,000 words, submit an essay outlining what you are passionate about, how you want to make a difference, and why you are interested in pursuing a career in an allied health profession.
- Previous recipients of this scholarship may reapply with no preference over new applicants.
Scholarship Recipients
Recipients to be listed soon.
