Mwangaza Scholarship Program Celebrates 25 Years
The IU House dining room filled with the laughter of future doctors, Moi University faculty and staff and longtime mentors all gathered to celebrate the 25th anniversary of the Mwangaza Scholarship program.
The February 7 celebration brought together 67 attendees to both reflect on the past and reaffirm the program’s future.
The Mwangaza program began in December 2000 with a gift from Indianapolis philanthropist Ellie Thurston to honor her late husband, Max. Initially, 12 Moi University School of Medicine students received support as Thurston Scholars. As the program grew and support expanded, it took on the name Mwangaza, a Swahili word meaning “light.”
Over time, that light has extended beyond tuition support. Leaders added work study opportunities, an emergency fund and a food program to address the realities students face while pursuing medical training.
Tal and Betsy Bosin of Bloomington, Indiana, have played a central role in guiding that growth. Serving as liaisons between donors and the scholarship committee in Kenya, they have made annual trips to support students and collaborate with faculty.
“This program has always been about more than scholarships. It is about investing in people who will go on to serve their communities,” said Tal Bosin.
Their commitment has been both practical and personal, shaped by years of connection with students navigating significant challenges.
“When you meet the students and hear their stories, you understand how critical even small interventions can be,” said Betsy Bosin. “These are future physicians who might not otherwise have had the chance to complete their training.”
The anniversary event reflected that sense of shared purpose. Students helped prepare food, including cupcakes and popcorn, while IU House staff organized the celebration. Remarks from Acting Dean Professor Arthur Kwena, committee chair Dr. Irene Cheshire and committee member Dr. Teresa Lototo highlighted the program’s lasting importance. Students also spoke, offering firsthand accounts of how the support has changed their paths.
A video of the Bosin’s Tusker Tale about the history of the program was shown at the celebration. The program supports 76 current scholars and continues to evolve alongside student needs.
“Sustainability has always been our guiding principle,” Tal Bosin said. “It is not just about helping students today, but ensuring the program continues for future generations.”
As the event concluded, the 25th anniversary milestone carried a clear message. A program that began with one gift has grown into a durable source of opportunity, driven in large part by the steady leadership of the scholarship committee and the Bosins with a shared commitment to building the next generation of physicians who will serve their fellow Kenyans.
To support the Mwangaza Scholarship program visit the Indiana University Foundation.