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La Louisiane inspires Boelhower to establish endowed scholarship

When Mary Ellen Boelhower '80 received the latest copy of the University of Louisiana at Lafayette's La Louisiane magazine, she figured she'd flip through to keep up with the latest news from her alma mater.

By the time she finished reading through the magazine's colorful pages, she was impressed with the great things happening at the University, namely the Together: The Campaign for the University of Louisiana at Lafayette , the largest comprehensive fundraising initiative in University history. She decided to give back to the University to establish the Louise and Harry Hungate Endowed Scholarship in Environmental Science. The scholarship will be created through an estate gift, which names the University as a beneficiary for her retirement account.

"It's easy. You don't have to go to an attorney or change a will. You go online, and it took me five minutes to do it," Boelhower said. "It doesn't have to be a huge percentage. A small percentage can make a big difference."

The scholarship - named in honor of her parents- will benefit UL Lafayette students majoring in environmental science. Her undergraduate studies spurred the decision to establish the scholarship in environmental science. After trying out several majors and nixing plans to become a veterinarian, Boelhower discovered a new path: wildlife management. The classes fascinated her and set her on a path to land conservation and heightening awareness of the natural world.

Although the wildlife management program is no longer offered at the University, Boelhower's decision to establish an environmental sciences scholarship speaks to her continued passion for land conservation and the natural world. Her love of wildlife endures today as she volunteers at a nature center at a state park near her home.

As a second career, Boelhower became a university fundraiser. In that role, she saw first-hand the impact of scholarships on students and how it alleviates the financial obligation they may feel as they work toward their degrees.

"The money is important, but what's almost as important is knowing that someone believes in them and that they're worthy of the scholarship," she said.

With the establishment of the endowed scholarship, Boelhower offered advice for others who may be considering giving back to UL Lafayette.

"Little actions can make a big difference," she said. "You may think what you're doing is small and just a drop in the pond. But with others in concert with your contribution, you can make a difference."