Ian Gifford, ‘04

When it was time to apply to colleges, Ian Gifford filled out just one application—the University of Michigan’s.

“I visited several other university campuses at my parents’ suggestion, but in less than an hour at U-M I knew this was it,” said Ian. “I was certain, without question, that attending Michigan would allow me to reach all of my goals.”

There was just one hurdle in the way—the cost of attending this world class institution. Ian’s parents discussed ways to meet tuition requirements. They were willing to take on second jobs, and Ian was already working two and three jobs each summer when a letter arrived announcing the Alumni Scholarship Program.

“I don’t think a minute passed before I was on the phone setting up my interview appointment,” said Ian.

Receiving the scholarship had a profound impact on Ian. “It allowed me to concentrate on my studies rather than trying to fit my classes around a full-time job that could extend my graduation well beyond four years,” said Ian, “It was a relief to know that my parents weren’t struggling to support my tuition payments,” he added.

Ian graduated in 2004 with his bachelor’s in chemistry and today he’s a second-year graduate student in the Ph.D. program in Bioengineering at the University of Maryland. He is developing a state-of-the-art nuclear medicine facility for cancer research.

“I will always be indebted to the DC Alumni Club for their support and providing me with such a full educational opportunity,” said Ian. He plans to pass along his good fortune by supporting scholarship programs in the future.

Aptitude and promise, he adds, should never be limited by financial boundaries or distinguished by income. “I think it’s essential that people strive to recognize young dreamers with the potential and desire to discover ways to improve our world, and offer them the support they need to achieve their dreams.”