Touro Scholars Offer Thanks for Latest Awards

Campaign Kicks Off for Next Round of Alumni Association Scholarships

January 15, 2025
A photo shows Alumni Association Scholarship recipient Natalie Brown smiling while in the Great Room at Wilderman Hall.
Alumni Association Scholarship recipient Natalie Brown.

A pair of students seeking postgraduate degrees are offering gratitude and praise to Touro University California alums for funding the latest round of Alumni Association scholarships.

They’re also asking the collective alumni to consider doing the same as the next round of fundraising begins in January.

Natalie Brown, who plans to become a Physician Assistant expects to complete the Joint MSPAS/MPH program in 2026, and Student Doctor Karen Vo, who is on track to graduate in May with her doctorate from the College of Osteopathic Medicine, each received scholarships during the fall semester.

Brown, Vo, and Student Doctor Disha Goel each received a $500 scholarship.

Scholarships Help to Break Down Barriers

Both noted how difficult it can be to pay for an advanced education and the relief that each scholarship can bring.

“Scholarship money is incredibly significant to medical students pursuing postgraduate degrees, as it alleviates the substantial financial burden associated with medical education,” Vo said. “These funds enable students to focus on their studies, clinical rotations, and research without the constant stress of financial strain. Additionally, scholarships can reduce the need for excessive student loans, which often lead to long-term debt.”

Brown noted the importance of having access to scholarships at the campus level.

“I have applied to a lot of scholarships hoping to get some help with my student loans – and while there are a lot of scholarships out in the world, there are a lot more applicants in need of financial assistance,” Brown said. “Having scholarships available through our school makes it much more attainable, and I am so grateful that Touro alumni are giving back to current Touro students.”

Gratitude … With an Eye Toward What’s Next

Both Brown and Vo offered thanks to the alumni who donated to the latest round of scholarship awards.

“Receiving this scholarship is especially meaningful as it came from alumni who were once in my position – studying and working hard to succeed in graduate school,” Brown said. “It means a lot that you are giving back to students at Touro, and I truly appreciate your generosity.”

“Your generosity has a profound impact on students like me, enabling us to pursue our dreams and focus on our education without being overwhelmed by financial burdens,” Vo said. “Your support not only eases our journey but also inspires us to give back to the community in the future.”

Brown encouraged the alumni community to support the latest fund drive.

“If you want to give back to the Touro community, this is a great opportunity to pay it forward,” she said.