New scholarship established at Marion Technical College for healthcare students

Longtime Marion Technical College supporters and community leaders Dr. James and Ellen Bazzoli have established a new scholarship for students from Marion County who are studying to go into the healthcare field. The first scholarship will be awarded in the Fall 2025 semester.

According to an article on Marion Technical College’s website, Mike Stuckey, who serves as the director of the Marion Tech Foundation, was quoted as saying of the new scholarship, “We are so grateful for the Bazzolis for investing in our students. We want to connect students with the right training to get those in-demand jobs we all depend on for our health. We value his continued investment in our students.”

Dr. James Bazzoli, who became an obstetrician and gynecologist, has been in the Marion community for decades. He founded his own practice in Marion, while his wife, Ellen, an artist, taught geology and owns an art studio. The two have had an enormous impact on the Marion community over the years, having founded the Marion Area Pregnancy Program in 1980, which helped reduce unplanned pregnancies, and having been involved in the community via participation with the Marion Rotary Club, the Marion Community Foundation, the local United Way, and the Palace Theatre.

Dr. Bazzoli has always been fond of Marion Technical College. He said, “You can’t work in health care at Smith Clinic in Marion, Ohio, without a lot of Marion Tech grads. We couldn’t run the office without the right people. You realize that people who go to Marion Tech are quality. I’ve been sold on Marion Tech for decades. If you’re investing Marion dollars, I like to see a return on that investment here in Marion. I choose projects that will have the biggest impact on the Marion community. People who go to Marion Tech are likely to stay in the community. Our hope is this will enhance the community by giving scholarships to people who want to stay. It’s always been a jewel to this community, but I don’t think it’s always been recognized. They have great programs in a lot of different fields. The anatomy lab is top-notch.”

Speaking specifically of his desire to assist people looking to work in healthcare in Marion, Dr. Bazzoli said, “Health care is a huge, growing field. Our goal is to encourage Marion County residents who are already interested in the field to continue their education. It’s not just nursing – it’s radiography, office staff, and others who want to continue their education. Marion Tech is a perfect avenue for people to advance.”

For more information about Marion Technical College, visit the school’s website.