The University of Louisiana Monroe announced the creation of the Dr. Frank Bruscato Endowed Scholarship for Excellence in Chemistry and Leadership at a press conference on March 10.
Dr. Bruscato was a professor of chemistry at ULM for 43 years. He retired in 2007. The scholarship was established with a $25,000 gift from Dr. Vince Forte, a former student of Dr. Bruscato, and his wife, Lana Forte.
The scholarship is designated for deserving chemistry and/or pre-med students to enable them to pursue their college degree but, as importantly, give them awareness on the prerequisites necessary to make a formal application to medical school. This scholarship will recognize students who embody the core values of hard work, empathy, service to others, integrity, and honesty in their academic and personal lives.
Dr. Vince Forte is a locally practicing physician who credits Dr. Frank Bruscato with inspiring him to pursue a career in medicine. After Forte took Bruscato’s organic chemistry class at ULM (then NLU), the two formed a friendship that has lasted for 40 years.
“It’s an honor to stand before you today to recognize and celebrate an individual whose unwavering commitment to education, mentorship, and leadership has shaped the lives of countless people. Today we’re here not just to express our gratitude but to ensure that Dr. Bruscato’s impact will continue for generations to come through this lifetime endowed scholarship,” said Forte.
Bruscato expressed gratitude as he addressed the crowd gathered at the press conference. “I am humbled to the greatest degree by all of you that are here today and the generosity of a former student who made a difference in his life by coming here and developing his family and his practice. I was so fortunate to be on this campus for over 43 years. I’d like to thank you for the honor and recognition of this scholarship established in my name,” said Bruscato.
Students wishing to receive the Dr. Frank Bruscato Endowed Scholarship for Excellence in Chemistry and Leadership must be a full-time sophomore, junior, or senior student majoring in pre-med or chemistry with the intention of applying to medical school. In addition to a minimum GPA of 3.7, applicants must provide lists of their community service, as well as a personal statement detailing their motivation for pursuing a medical degree.
Forte says the rigorous application process for the scholarship mirrors the preparation that will be required for students to apply to medical school. The scholarship application process is intended to further prepare them for success as they continue to work toward their medical degree.