Gurski, a biology major during his time at Catawba, is an assistant professor of psychiatry at Drexel University College of Medicine. His gift reflects the Gurski family’s belief in access to education and the profound difference healthcare professionals can make in the lives of others.
For Gurski, the scholarship is deeply personal. As a student, he benefited from scholarship support that helped make his Catawba education possible and placed him on a path toward a career in medicine. Now, after completing his medical training, he wanted to create a similar opportunity for students who are pursuing pre-medical studies and preparing for lives of service through healthcare.
“Catawba gave me the foundation and support I needed to pursue medicine,” Gurski said. “I know what it means to receive help at a pivotal time. The generosity of others made a lasting difference in my life, and I hope this scholarship will do the same for future students.”
When Gurski arrived at Catawba, he knew he was interested in medicine but had not yet determined the direction his career would take. He credits the College’s small, supportive environment, strong advisers, and personalized attention with helping him recognize and pursue his calling.
He especially remembers the influence of faculty members who guided him during that important time. Dr. Constance Lowry, professor of biology, encouraged him to consider medical school and helped direct him toward that future. Dr. Kenn Clapp, chaplain emeritus, also made a lasting impression through the values and sense of purpose he modeled at Catawba.
“John’s gift is a meaningful expression of gratitude and a clear investment in students who will carry Catawba’s commitment to service into the field of medicine,” said Meg Dees, vice president of advancement at Catawba College. “Scholarships like this open doors for students and allow them to see possibilities for their own futures. We are grateful to John and the Gurski family for creating this lasting source of support.”
The Gurski Family Endowed Scholarship will provide ongoing support for Catawba students who are preparing for medical school, helping reduce financial barriers as they pursue rigorous academic and professional goals.
Gurski said he continues to remember the name of the donor whose scholarship support helped him attend Catawba, and that memory helped shape his decision to give back. He encourages others who are considering a gift to reflect on the people and opportunities that helped shape their own lives.
“The support I received mattered,” Gurski said. “I owe a great deal to Catawba and to the people who gave so students like me could have that opportunity. Giving back is one way to honor that and help the next generation move forward.”
Through the Gurski Family Endowed Scholarship, Catawba College students pursuing medicine will have access to new support as they prepare for careers grounded in knowledge, empathy, and service.
To learn more about how to support Catawba College or establish a new endowed fund or scholarship, please contact Catawba’s Office of Advancement at 704.637.4394.
About Where Our Good Goes
Where Our Good Goes is Catawba College’s comprehensive fundraising campaign, designed to expand opportunities for students, enhance academic and campus life, and strengthen the College’s impact on communities near and far. Grounded in Catawba’s mission of scholarship with character and culture for service, the campaign reflects the College’s enduring belief that when we invest in students today, their good will go far tomorrow. For more information about the Where Our Good Goes campaign, visit catawba.edu/whereourgoodgoes.
