When P. A. Mack was diagnosed with prostate cancer in 2004, he knew his life would be forever changed. What he didn't realize, however, was how this experience would lead him to change the lives of others as well.

After his diagnosis, Mack spent nine weeks as a patient at the Midwest Proton Radiotherapy Institute (MPRI), a state-of-the-art facility in Bloomington that offers a highly specialized form of cancer treatment. During his time at MPRI, he grew close to the staff and developed an appreciation for their work. "They were like family," Mack says.

In addition to appreciating the quality of care he received at MPRI, Mack also felt fortunate to have access to such a unique facility. MPRI is one of only four

Proton Therapy treatment centers of any kind in the United States, and one of only three full-service centers. Proton Radiotherapy is a highly specialized form of treatment for benign and malignant cancerous tumors. Physicians use a beam of protons to target tumors more accurately than other types of radiation therapy. The facility treats both children and adults, specializing in those with tumors adjacent to vital organs.

In recognition of the facility and those who cared for him, Mack - along with Ivy Tech Community College Bloomington Chancellor John Whikehart and MPRI Medical Director Allan Thornton, MD, DABR - established the Midwest Proton Radiotherapy Institute Scholarship in Radiation Therapy. The scholarship is awarded to Ivy Tech Community College students pursuing an Associate of Science degree in Radiation Therapy. It is awarded to a student who maintains at least a 3.0 grade point average and demonstrates a commitment to pursuing a career in the field. Ivy Tech's chair of the Radiation Therapy Program, in consultation with MPRI staff, selects the honoree. Successful scholarship students may be considered for internship opportunities and, after graduating from Ivy Tech, may be given the opportunity to interview for a permanent position with MPRI.

Mack says he was motivated by a desire to give back to those who helped him recover, and to encourage more students to consider careers in healthcare. "You can't do anything better than offer a scholarship to a student," he explains. "It was a natural fit."

Jason Dixon is one student who has benefitted from the scholarship, and after graduation, he was offered a position at MPRI. It's an opportunity, he says, that has transformed his future. "I have found my calling, and not merely a career," Dixon states.

Chancellor Whikehart is also among those who appreciate the tremendous difference made by gifts like Mack's. "The generosity of individuals like P.A. Mack is as important to us as financial gifts we receive from large corporations," Chancellor Whikehart says. "Mr. Mack's gift clearly supports our community College workforce development role; more importantly, it will change the life of a student."