Roger and Jeanette Rusch Memorial Endowed Scholarship

Eligible: Currently Enrolled Students Only

Background and Purpose

This scholarship was established in 2020 by Nancy Rusch, PhD, the chair of the UAMS Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology from 2005-202(x), in memory of her parents, Roger and Jeanette Rusch. It recognizes their belief that education is the key to success. Born in Wisconsin, Roger was an army air force pilot during World War II. When the war ended, he attended college on VA Military Educational Benefits, and ultimately became a banking executive. Also a Wisconsin native, Jeanette obtained a master’s degree in home economics/journalism.  She celebrated a passion for education by becoming a librarian and volunteering as a tutor in adult literacy programs. The importance of education was instilled in three daughters, who obtained graduate degrees in medicine, science and business. The scholarship is intended to help future health care professionals enjoy the benefits of a college education and to increase the level of diversity at UAMS.

Award Amount and Timing

Subject to availability of funds, the total annual award is $5,000 to the selected student.  Scholarship award is as follows: $2,500 per semester, fall and spring semester enrollment.

Eligibility Criteria

  1. Arkansas resident preferred.  However, if a student from Arkansas cannot be identified, the scholarship will be awarded to another qualified student.
  2. Preference will be given to students who represent minority or disadvantaged population groups.
  3. Applicant must be enrolled in a bachelor, master, or doctoral program in the UAMS College of Health Professions.
  4. Minimum cumulative grade point average (cGPA) of 3.50 for all courses completed since the time of admission into CHP.
  5. Documented Financial Need – Documented financial need is determined by a FASFA report.

Reference

Letter of recommendation is required from a current College of Health Professions faculty member who is knowledgeable of and can address the applicant’s leadership traits/characteristics.  Relatives cannot not be used as the reference.