Scott A. Gunder, MD, DCMS Presidential Scholarship

Scott A. Gunder, MD, was a person with a vision of returning something to the community that had given him so much. Early in his term as the 125th president of the Dauphin County Medical Society (DCMS), he wanted to establish a scholarship for a deserving medical student. As a clinical assistant professor of medicine, and from his own experience, he knew the tremendous commitment it takes to earn a medical degree—and the high cost.

Dr. Gunder's wish became a reality in October of 2000. The DCMS established the Scott A. Gunder, MD, DCMS Presidential Scholarship Fund within The Foundation of the Pennsylvania Medical Society. Through this scholarship, the memory of the 39-year-old Harrisburg gastroenterologist will continue.

Dr. Gunder's gentle and compassionate spirit was worlds apart from the aggressive cancer that took his life. The vast number of condolence cards and letters his widow, Doreen, received was a testament to his character. His family remembers him as a loving husband, caring son, and thoughtful brother. His compassionate nature brought much joy and comfort to his patient, family, and friends.

In honor of Dr. Gunder, the DCMS is committed to the perpetuation of this fund. It will serve as recognition of all DCMS presidents who dedicate their time to the betterment of the society—as Dr. Gunder had done.

In fulfilling Dr. Gunder's wish, this special scholarship will be awarded annually to one deserving second-year medical student from Penn State College of Medicine at the Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, where Dr. Gunder taught. A part of Dr. Gunder's spirit of medicine will reside in each future physician who receives this award.

A $5,200 scholarship will be awarded to a second-year medical student at Penn State College of Medicine.

Eligibility for scholarship applicants includes the following:

• Applicant must be a United States citizen.
• Applicant must be a bona fide resident of Pennsylvania for at least 12 months before registering as a medical student (not including time spent attending an undergraduate/graduate school in Pennsylvania).
• Applicant must be a second-year medical student.
• Applicant must be enrolled full-time at Penn State College of Medicine.
• Member of the Pennsylvania Medical Society and county medical society.

Applicant must use the Scholarship Application Portal to submit the following:

1. A completed scholarship application.
2. Two reference letters, from persons other than family members, documenting the applicant’s integrity, interpersonal skills, and potential as a future physician.
3. A letter, on school letterhead, from Penn State College of Medicine verifying that he/she is enrolled full-time and is a second-year medical student.
4. An essay (within the application) describing the person or event that most influenced you to become a physician and how you see yourself leading others into medicine. (750 words or less)

A PERSONAL INTERVIEW IS NOT REQUIRED; HOWEVER, IT MAY BE REQUESTED.

Online applications open July 1