Brenda D. Ford and Family Endowed Medical Scholarship

The Brenda D. Ford and Family Endowed Medical Scholarship was established in 2017 by Natalie H. Ford in honor of her sister, Brenda D. Ford, and the entire Ford family.

Natalie is the youngest of ten children of Theodore and Myra B. Ford. There was a strong emphasis placed on education by their parents, as well as constant reminders of giving back to society through volunteer efforts and financial contributions to causes of significant importance and for the betterment of mankind.

Brenda received her bachelor’s degree from Roosevelt University in Chicago and earned a master’s degree in education from Northeastern Illinois University. She was a primary elementary school teacher for more than forty years. Brenda also held an elected position on the Chicago Teacher’s Union executive board for many years. She co-chaired one of the committees that raised money annually for eyeglasses, hearing aids, clothing and scholarships for students. She organized fundraising events to take many of her students on trips to Washington, DC, Tuskegee, Alabama and London, England. Brenda was deeply committed to ensuring her students had an excellent educational experience, both inside and outside the classroom. She was a long-time patient of Richard W. Byrne, MD, until her death in August 2016.

Natalie created this scholarship in honor of her sister and her dedication to education. The fund supports students who are enrolled in Rush Medical College, specifically first year students who demonstrate a commitment to service and a spirt of volunteerism. Natalie earned her undergraduate degree from the University of Illinois at Chicago and was the beneficiary of a scholarship award that allowed her to pursue studies at Harvard University. Her continued annual support of this scholarship ensures that its impact on students will continue to grow.