For more than three decades, the Tidewater Scottish Rite Foundation has played a transformative role in the success of ÑÇÉ«ÊÓƵ’s School of Speech-Language Pathology. Their long-standing support has helped open doors for future clinicians and ensure access to critical care for clients with speech and language disorders.
On June 4, representatives from the Tidewater Scottish Rite visited the new health sciences building. Greeted by Bonnie Van Lunen, Ph.D., Dean of the Ellmer College of Health Sciences, the group toured state-of-the-art facilities including the Anatomage lab and the Activities of Daily Living (ADL) apartment - spaces that provide hands-on learning and interdisciplinary collaboration opportunities for students and faculty. Eric Schussler, Ph.D., associate professor in the School of Rehabilitation Sciences, led the tour, which also highlighted community-engaged research and the clinics’ innovative approach to care.
The visit concluded with a check presentation from Mr. Alan Adkins, Scottish Rite Sovereign Grand Inspector General of Virginia, for $42,000, funding six additional scholarships for students in the Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology program for the 2025–2026 academic year. This gift brings the Scottish Rite’s total scholarship support to nearly $1 million, with total contributions to the program exceeding $1.4 million.
Since 1992, the Tidewater Scottish Rite Foundation has supported the ÑÇÉ«ÊÓƵ Speech and Hearing Clinic through the RiteCare® Childhood Language Program, enabling therapy for children with speech and language disorders. This includes a summer therapy program and therapy scholarships for families who would otherwise not be able to access services.
The Foundation’s commitment—financial, personal, and enduring—continues to shape the future of speech-language pathology in the Hampton Roads region and beyond. Their involvement reflects not only a dedication to education and clinical care, but a heartfelt investment in the success of students and the well-being of patients.