Community College of Vermont (CCV) students in Brattleboro pursuing a degree in medical assisting now have access to a new scholarship.
The Brattleboro Rotary Club Gateway Foundation has announced the establishment of the Jesse M. Corum IV Scholarship, honoring longtime Brattleboro Rotarian Jesse Corum.
The recipient of the $2,500 award will be chosen based on academic achievement, financial need, and community service. Applicants must reside in Vermont and be enrolled in their second year of studies at CCV Brattleboro.
The award will be presented in January.
Corum, who died of pancreatic cancer in June, was active in Rotary for 27 years. During that time he was committed to supporting local education and serving the Brattleboro community.
Corum had no ties to CCV, but members of the foundation said both the college and the chosen area of study are appropriate.
“We wanted to help establish a livelihood for someone who will hopefully stay in the community, fill a much-needed profession, and help us grow,” said Martin Cohn, president of the Gateway Foundation.
He added, “We are happy to be forging this relationship with CCV as they open the doors of their new center in Brooks House.”
According to CCV Associate Academic Dean Darlene Murphy, the college's medical assisting degree is unique in Vermont. It prepares students for the Certified Medical Assistant credential, which is becoming increasingly desirable to healthcare providers across the state.
“In addition to classroom work, two required medical assisting internships give students workplace experience and important opportunities to connect with potential employers in the Brattleboro area,” Murphy said.
She warmly thanked the Rotary Club for recognizing the value of CCV's program and for establishing this scholarship for its students.