Memorial Scholarship in International Studies
Dr. Dante Thurairatnam
Memorial Scholarship in International Studies
Bowling Green State University
With the passing of Dr. Dante Thurairatnam in November 1999, Bowling Green State University lost one of its most beloved administrators. The family, colleagues and friends of Dante have established the Dr. Dante Thurairatnam Memorial Scholarship to honor his achievements and to continue the cause to which he dedicated his life—helping students succeed. The scholarship will provide an annual award to a full-time undergraduate Bowling Green State University student with financial need who is majoring in the International Studies Program. The scholarship recipient will be an active and involved member of community or campus organizations with a strong academic record and an overall grade point average of 3.0 or better.
Dr. Dante Thurairatnam
Dante arrived at Bowling Green State University from Sri Lanka in 1969. After earning a Master of Education degree in health, physical education and recreation, Dante returned to Sri Lanka and served as Director of Health and Physical Education, coach, teacher and dorm director at Jaffna College. But Bowling Green had stolen his heart and Dante came back to BGSU in 1974, never to leave again. He entered the doctoral program and received a Ph.D. in educational administration and supervision. From his first position as assistant to the Vice Provost to his last as Associate Dean of (the former) Continuing Education, International & Summer Programs and Director of Off-Campus Programs, Dante was devoted to the University. Since he assumed full responsibility in 1981, Off-Campus Programs has grown phenomenally, developing a previously untapped population and generating much-needed revenue for the University. Dante was instrumental in securing many major grants for the University and for local schools. He worked closely with area superintendents and principals to make teacher continuing education accessible and convenient. Dante was always ready to lend a helping hand to students, especially international students. His associates considered him a compassionate friend and mentor. In recognition of his accomplishments, Dante received the prestigious Michael Ferrari Award, the University’s top honor for administrative staff, in 1991. He was inducted into the Omicron Delta Kappa honor society in 1995. The Dr. Dante Thurairatnam Memorial Scholarship is a fitting tribute to a distinguished career and lasting legacy to the students he served so well.
Criteria for Application
- Full-time sophomores, juniors, and seniors majoring in International Studies.
- GPA of 3.0 or better.
- Evidence of involvement in campus or community organizations.
- Financial need.
Selection Process
A Selection Committee will review applications and contact the students in the Spring
Amount of the Award
Awards contingent upon available funds
Scholarship Adminstration
The Executive Director of International Programs and Partnerships
Awards will be announced in May
Complete applications must be received by March 22.
If you have any additional questions regarding the application, please contact the Selection Committee Chair at (419) 372-8181
Updated: 02/22/2018 09:06AM