November 16, 2020
The Central Susquehanna Community Foundation is pleased to announce the creation of a new scholarship fund in honor of local surgeon and Berwick native Dr. Mark C. Pyles. While looking for a way to honor Dr. Pyles and his work, Helen F. Pyles (Fort Wayne, Indiana) realized that starting a fund at the Foundation was the perfect way to recognize her nephew’s service in the community while benefitting future professionals.
“I am very proud of Mark – the commitments he has made to his community and the goals he has reached in his medical profession,” explains Ms. Pyles. “I have no idea how many people have been served by his knowledge and skill, but I know each patient was able to enjoy better health as a result. If this scholarship can help students reach their life goals through medicine, we are all winners.”
The Dr. Mark C. Pyles Scholarship Fund was established by Ms. Pyles on her birthday in September, and will provide an annual scholarship to a graduating senior from Berwick Area High School pursuing a certification, associate, or undergraduate degree in a health-related or medical field.
Dr. Pyles was a graduate of Berwick High School and demonstrated interest in the Community through volunteerism and extracurricular activities lie the Boy Scouts. After completing his medical education and training, Dr. Pyles returned to his hometown and established a medical practice as a general surgeon serving the greater Berwick area.
“When I went to college, I was awarded a local scholarship through the Berwick High School. That support helped propel me forward, and I knew I wanted to return to my hometown and give back to the community through my professional career. I hope that this scholarship will have the same effect for a deserving student, and maybe even influence them to come back to benefit the community in the future,” comments Dr. Pyles.
Contributions can be made to the Dr. Mark C. Pyles Scholarship Fund online, or mail to the Central Susquehanna Community Foundation, Attn: Pyles Scholarship Fund, 725 West Front Street, Berwick, PA 18603. The Central Susquehanna Community Foundation is a 501(c)(3) organization which manages nearly 300 charitable funds and makes grant investments throughout the region to improve the quality of life in the Central Susquehanna area. For more information, visit csgiving.org or call the Foundation at 570-752-3930.