The Dr. William M. Scholl College of Podiatric Medicine at Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science has named Robert Charles Barton II as the first recipient of the Bako Medical Education Foundation Scholarship.

“This gift is much more than a financial one,” said Barton, a member of the Scholl College Class of 2020. “It gets me one step closer to becoming a physician. It gives me faith in humanity and the knowledge that a career in podiatric medicine, dedicated to the service of others, is the right one for me.”

Barton serves as a student trustee on the Rosalind Franklin University Board of Trustees and as a student mentor helping to guide others who are interested in future careers in podiatric medicine. He is the recipient of the Designated Student Leader Award and the Diamond Volunteer Service Award, which recognizes students who perform more than 100 volunteer hours.

The Bako Medical Education Foundation, a non-profit organization that seeks to advance diagnostic excellence in the field of podiatry, created the scholarship through a grant of up to $100,000, to be paid over four years, subject to certain conditions. The scholarship provides annual recognition and financial assistance to top accepted and/or enrolled Scholl College students.

“We are grateful for the funding of the Bako Medical Education Foundation Scholarship,” said Chad Ruback, the university’s vice president for institutional advancement. “It will enable Scholl College to enroll and/or recognize future clinicians who will uphold the values of both the foundation and Rosalind Franklin University.”

Barton became interested in the field of podiatric medicine because he aspires to improve the lives of others. His long-term goals include advocacy and shaping healthcare policy at the national level. He plans to use the scholarship to help cover the costs of books, resources and tuition.

“The Foundation is pleased to provide this grant to Rosalind Franklin University,” said Steven J. Berlin, DPM, FACFAS, a foundation board and grants committee member. “We recognize the important role that Scholl College plays in educating and training our future clinicians and we are honored to play a small role to further this important endeavor.”