Judy Bender Scholarship for Nursing

Background:

Judy Bender was born on June 13, 1958, to Shirley and Richard Bender. She attended grade school at St. Edward’s in Mackville and high school at Appleton West. Judy married shortly after graduation and had four children. When she became a single parent, her desire for a career in nursing seemed impossible. Still, Judy pursued her dream. Through programs offered at night and on the weekends by Fox Valley Technical College, Judy achieved her goal of earning a Nursing Degree. She graduated with high honors. Judy joined the nursing staff of Peabody Manor. She had a special gift in her work with the elderly and loved to listen to their many stories. At age 42, she became Director of Nursing at Peabody Manor. Just one month after her promotion, she was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer and was forced into early retirement. She continued to minister to the elderly while undergoing treatment for her disease, starting a Bible Study Program at the nursing home. She also established a Parish Nurse Program at her church and assisted people in need of transportation. Many of her days were spent visiting cancer patients, providing inspiration to them during their difficult time.

Judy’s strong faith sustained her during her three years of treatment. Since her life has been a gift to so many, the family has chosen to have that gift continue.

Eligibility: (taken into consideration to determine recipients)

• Non-traditional student enrolled in the Nursing Program at Fox Valley Technical College • Currently taking core nursing classes

Award Amount:

2 non-renewable $1,000 scholarship awards for tuition expenses. One scholarship to be awarded in the fall and one in the spring.

Selection:

Selection of the recipient will be recommended by the Fox Valley Technical College Scholarship Selection committee.

Collecting the Award & Payment Procedure:

Scholarship payment will be made directly to Fox Valley Technical College Foundation.

Further Information:

• Fox Valley Technical College Foundation o Call 920.735.2478 • Community Foundation for the Fox Valley Region o Website www.cffoxvalley.org/scholarships/ o Email scholarships@cffoxvalley.org o Phone 920.702.7629