By: Gene Bruno, OMD

In its third year, the Trudy McAlister Fund (TM Fund) has awarded two scholarships to two very deserving students. The recipients are: Ian Koebner, who attends the New England School of Acupuncture, and Christy Kennedy, from the Colorado School of TCM. Each received a $1000 scholarship from the TM Fund.

When Ian was asked what the scholarship meant to him he replied, “I am grateful. Educational scholarships like the Trudy McAlister Fund are essential for students of AOM to manage the financial obligation of their studies. The Trudy McAlister Fund is particularly meaningful because its roots are based in Mrs. McAlister’s appreciation for the efficacy of the care she received as a patient. Ultimately, it is the quality of the care offered by practitioners of AOM and the various patient-centered outcomes derived from it that will advance the profession. Mrs. McAlister’s commitment to future practitioners is inspiring and I am honored to receive this year’s scholarship.” Ian Koebner

Christy Kennedy was also last year’s recipient. When asked about this year’s scholarship, she replied, “It is such a privilege to be one of the winners of the Trudy McAllister Scholarship for 2009! As last year's winner, I have truly understood what a tremendous help scholarship assistance can be, especially since it is not all that common for TCM students. I am so grateful to Trudy McAllister, the Scholarship Committee, the Advisory Board, and to Gene Bruno for all of their support and hard work. Without such a dedicated team, students of TCM would have even less opportunity to fund an already expensive education. I encourage all students of TCM to study hard, pursue your interests and take the time to apply for the scholarships that are available. You never know, you could be next year's winner!” Christy Kennedy