Rekha Kakkar
Updated on: October 8, 2024 1:36 pm GMT
BOWLING GREEN, Ohio — Ryan Lothamer, a dedicated student at Bowling Green State University (BGSU), has been awarded the prestigious Voyager Scholarship for Public Service, making him the only recipient from Ohio in the 2024 cohort. This accolade marks a significant milestone for the university, as it represents the third consecutive year that a BGSU student has earned this honor. Established by former President Barack Obama, former First Lady Michelle Obama, and Airbnb co-founder Brian Chesky, the Voyager Scholarship aims to support future leaders in public service.
The Voyager Scholarship is awarded annually to 100 college juniors nationwide who demonstrate outstanding dedication to public service. Lothamer, who is majoring in science education and hails from Defiance, Ohio, expressed his gratitude and excitement for the opportunity. In a statement, he emphasized how BGSU has been instrumental in his journey, allowing him to actively participate in various community service programs and leadership roles since transferring from a community college.
Scholarship Benefits and Structure
The Voyager Scholarship offers substantial financial aid that includes up to $50,000 over two years, alongside a $10,000 stipend for summer work-travel experiences. Additionally, recipients receive complimentary Airbnb housing, which facilitates their efforts in public service-oriented projects. The program further includes a $2,000 annual Airbnb credit for 10 years, participation in an in-person summit, and opportunities to connect with influential leaders in various fields.
The scholarship was designed to nurture a new generation of public service leaders, aiming to equip them with both the academic and practical resources necessary to enact meaningful change. “The opportunities to give back and take on leadership roles led to me becoming a Voyager,” Lothamer noted, highlighting his commitment to service.
Ryan Lothamer’s Contributions
Lothamer’s journey is marked by significant contributions to public service and education. As part of his dedication to science education, he developed an innovative 10-week program aimed at introducing science curricula to underserved communities in Ohio. This initiative has garnered interest from multiple school districts, emphasizing the program’s potential impact.
Beyond his academic pursuits, Lothamer is involved in various extracurricular activities, including serving on BGSU’s therapy dog team, volunteering with the American Red Cross, and the Ronald McDonald House. His engagement in these activities reflects a broader commitment to community service, which undoubtedly played a role in his scholarship selection.
A Continued Legacy of Excellence at BGSU
The Voyager Scholarship continues a legacy of support for public service at BGSU. Lothamer joins previous recipients Elyse Adrian (2023) and Kaylee Ann Ries (2022), making BGSU the only university in Ohio to have students recognized in each cohort since the scholarship’s inception in 2022.
In a broader context, the scholarship aligns with the university’s mission to foster civic involvement among its students, preparing them for careers that prioritize public welfare and community improvement. Lothamer’s selection is a testament to BGSU’s engaging programs and the university’s commitment to developing leaders who are dedicated to making a positive difference.
A Complementary Award in Colorado
In a separate but related highlight, William Navarette Moreno, a junior at the University of Colorado Denver, also received the Voyager Scholarship for Public Service this year. Moreno’s determination to pursue a career in public health was ignited by personal experiences that underscored the urgent need for equity in health care. As the son of immigrants, Moreno witnessed firsthand the barriers many face in accessing medical care.
His enthusiasm for public health reflects a broader trend among scholarship recipients, who embody a commitment to addressing social issues through innovative solutions. In his remarks, Moreno described the scholarship as a pivotal step in enabling him to graduate debt-free and focus on his passion for public service. He has undertaken initiatives like TheCHANGEproject, which seeks to combat systemic inequities in health care.
The BGSU Community’s Support
BGSU has consistently supported students’ ambitions to engage with their communities through scholarships and various programs aimed at public service. The university’s efforts have increasingly garnered national attention, with programs designed to amplify student voices and encourage leadership in public affairs.
Lothamer’s achievements resonate with many students at BGSU and across the nation who are actively seeking to make their mark in public service. The scholarship not only provides financial assistance but also connects recipients with a robust network of like-minded individuals and mentors, enhancing their leadership capabilities.
Future Prospects for Voyager Scholars
As the Voyager Scholarship continues to grow, its impact on the participating students and their communities becomes increasingly significant. Recipients like Lothamer and Moreno are positioned not only to excel academically but to influence public policy and community health outcomes during their careers. The emphasis on experiential learning and networking prepares these scholars to navigate the complexities of public service roles in a rapidly changing world.
As Voyager Scholars start their journeys, they learn that public service is not just a job. It’s a promise to help make the world better and to solve problems that affect communities here and around the globe.
