Following the nation's emotional outpouring after the killing of George Floyd in May 2020, BSU alumni Betty (Fulton) Novotney '79 felt a call to show her love and support for students of color at Bemidji State University.
In response, Novotney, along with her three daughters, created the George Floyd Memorial Scholarship to promote hope and encourage healing for students of color at BSU.
The George Floyd Memorial Scholarship was selected as one of several specific campus priorities available for donors to support during BSU's Day of Giving in February. The online campaign drew donors from around the country who shared Novotney's commitment to social justice and equality by donating over $9,000 to the endowment.
With this additional financial support, BSU Alumni & Foundation anticipates awarding $5,000 scholarships to deserving BSU students this coming academic year.
"My hope is that this scholarship serves as a catalyst to promote leadership in our student body," Novotney said in a previous interview. "The experiences that this scholarship rewards will hopefully encourage hope, empathy and peaceful resolution to issues within the Bemidji State University community and beyond."
The George Floyd Memorial Scholarship will be awarded to underrepresented minority students who have demonstrated a commitment to community service.
To learn more about the George Floyd Memorial Scholarship or to make a gift, visit bsualumni.org/george-floyd-memorial-scholarship or call (218) 755-3989.
