Thelma Orr Memorial Scholarship

Name: Thelma Orr Memorial Scholarship

Award Amount: $1,500 (2 awards available)

Information And Eligibility:
The Thelma Orr Memorial Scholarship is a regionally focused healthcare scholarship administered by the MyMichigan Medical Center Alpena Volunteer Services Department. Created to honor the legacy of Thelma Orr and her commitment to community health, this scholarship supports students pursuing careers in human medicine who are already progressing through their academic programs at accredited Michigan institutions.

This scholarship is specifically designed for students who have demonstrated a serious commitment to healthcare by reaching at least their second year of study in a human medicine–related field. Unlike many entry-level scholarships, the Thelma Orr Memorial Scholarship prioritizes students who have already completed foundational coursework and are actively advancing toward a healthcare profession such as medicine, nursing, physician assistant studies, physical therapy, radiologic sciences, medical laboratory sciences, or related clinical disciplines.

Two scholarships of $1,500 each are awarded annually. Funds may be used to offset tuition, academic fees, textbooks, lab costs, or other education-related expenses. Because healthcare education often includes significant out-of-pocket costs beyond tuition, this scholarship can provide meaningful financial relief during a demanding phase of a student’s academic journey.

Eligibility is limited to residents of six specific counties in Northern Michigan: Alpena, Alcona, Iosco, Montmorency, Oscoda, and Presque Isle. This regional focus reflects MyMichigan Medical Center Alpena’s mission to invest in local students who may one day return to serve their communities as healthcare professionals. Applicants must be enrolled at an accredited Michigan college or university and must be U.S. citizens.

The application process is selective and includes an interview component, underscoring the scholarship committee’s emphasis on professionalism, communication skills, and personal motivation. Applicants are evaluated not only on academic performance, but also on their commitment to healthcare, interpersonal qualities, and potential to positively impact patient care and community health outcomes.

Students applying should be prepared to clearly articulate why they chose a human medicine–related field, what their long-term career goals are, and how they intend to contribute to the healthcare needs of Michigan communities—particularly rural or underserved areas. Strong candidates often demonstrate compassion, resilience, ethical integrity, and a genuine interest in patient-centered care.

Applicants must submit official transcripts to verify academic progress and provide letters of recommendation from instructors, healthcare supervisors, or mentors who can speak directly to the applicant’s academic ability, work ethic, and suitability for a healthcare career. Because an interview is required, applicants should prepare by reviewing their academic goals, clinical interests, and experiences that have shaped their commitment to medicine.

The scholarship deadline is May 1. Incomplete applications or missing documentation may not be considered, so applicants are encouraged to begin the process early and allow sufficient time to secure transcripts and references.

Overall, the Thelma Orr Memorial Scholarship is an excellent opportunity for second-year healthcare students from Northern Michigan who are deeply committed to human medicine. It not only provides financial assistance, but also represents recognition from a respected regional medical institution—an honor that can strengthen a student’s academic and professional profile.

Eligibility Requirements:

• Must be a resident of Alpena, Alcona, Iosco, Montmorency, Oscoda, or Presque Isle County, Michigan.
• Must be a U.S. citizen.
• Must be enrolled in an accredited Michigan college or university.
• Must be a second-year student in a human medicine–related field.
• Must be pursuing a course of study related to human medicine.

Application Requirements:

• Completed scholarship application form.
• Official academic transcripts.
• Letters of recommendation or references.
• Participation in a required interview.

Deadline: May 1

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