Educational Foundation Receives Carole Ray Dowling Funds
The Educational Foundation of USC Lancaster recently received approximately $370,000 from the Carole Ray Dowling Scholarship fund. John Catalano, Dean of USC Lancaster stated, “This could not have happened at a better time and it is a great thing for both organizations. It is a wonderful way to memorialize Mrs. Dowling. Anytime you drive down Hubbard Drive you will think of her and what she meant to this community.”
The Carole Ray Dowling Scholarship fund was founded as a tribute to Mrs. Dowling, who was killed in an automobile accident in December of 1983. Prior to her death, Carole Ray Dowling was secretary and office manager for Leroy Springs and Company, Inc. for sixteen years.
Initiated by Bill Biggerstaff, then Director of the Lancaster office of Leroy Springs, a Golf Tournament was organized to provide funds for this scholarship, and held annually for many years. The intent of the scholarship was to aid worthy young men and women in attending the college or university of their choice. Scholarship recipients were to be residents of Lancaster County and applications have been received annually from each of the four county high schools. To date, more than ninety young people have received aid from this scholarship, and more than $225,000 has been presented to these Lancaster County students. Having reached endowment status, and with wise investments, scholarship funds have grown considerably, with approximately $370,000 remaining for distribution.
The Life Scholarships and the Hope Scholarships presented by the state of South Carolina have made it possible for many young people to attend colleges and universities. Therefore, the Board of Directors of the Carole Ray Dowling Scholarship have voted to discontinue further Dowling scholarships. Currently, eight students are attending school with this assistance, which will continue until their graduation.
Remaining funds will be contributed to the Educational Foundation of the University of South Carolina Lancaster to be used for the renovation and maintenance of the University Baptist Church property, which is now part of USCL. This property is to become the Carole Ray Dowling Health Services Center.
Mr. Biggerstaff and the Dowling Board of Directors are happy to release this announcement and feel that the scholarship funds will continue to be used for the education and wellness of the entire county, while retaining the name of its initial memorial.
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