I’d like to mentor students and try to open as many doors as possible for those future researchers and scientists.
Erik Marchant
The Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences accepts around 120 students each fall, preparing the next generation of researchers and science specialists. Among them is Erik Marchant, a fourth-year PhD student whose first step into a lab as an undergraduate reshaped his path from medical school to a career in research.
Marchant never expected research to become his calling. What started as a way to stand out in medical school applications quickly grew into a love for discovery and a search for the right place to pursue his passion. His search ultimately led him to the Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, where he studies muscle physiology and the biology of aging under Professor Blake Rasmussen, PhD.
A passion for research
Today, Marchant pursues his career in research with passion, and the support of the Presidential Ambassador Scholar Award has deepened his gratitude for being part of something larger than himself.
“Anytime I’ve received a scholarship, it has meant a lot," said Marchant. "I know donations are a sacrifice, and donors may not immediately see the benefit of their donation, but for the person on the receiving end, it makes a world of difference.”
The Presidential Ambassador Scholar Award has recognized student leaders in the health professional schools since 1988. Supported by the generosity of members of the President’s Council, the program honors students who demonstrate academic excellence, leadership and a commitment to service. At first, Marchant was surprised by his nomination, but the feeling quickly gave way to pride as he received the award alongside a remarkable group of peers, representing the Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences as a 2025 scholar recipient.
“I know donations are a sacrifice, and donors may not immediately see the benefit of their donation, but for the person on the receiving end, it makes a world of difference.”
Erik Marchant
The President’s Council has awarded more than $11 million to advance the health of the region, helping to make countless lives better across the country through therapies, patient care and scholarships. For Marchant, the scholarship has done more than provide financial assistance. It has allowed Marchant to step into leadership roles, focus on research and embrace opportunities that might otherwise have remained out of reach.
Hope to pay it forward
Marchant describes the university as a place where professors open doors of opportunity, and colleagues and donors see potential in students. Reflecting on his mentors and the donors who make this scholarship possible, he added, “I feel so lucky to be in a place where I feel supported. I just want to be able to do the same. Eventually, I’d like to run the lab, and I’d like to mentor students and try to open as many doors as possible for those future researchers and scientists.”
What began as a stepping stone in an undergraduate lab sparked a deep passion and sense of purpose. Marchant credits his mentors and the opportunities he received for helping him grow as a leader and contribute to a journey rooted in compassion and health.
Empowered by the Presidential Ambassadors Scholars Award program, students in the health professional schools are poised to lead the next breakthroughs in health care — driving innovation, compassion and progress for future generations.
Be a part of healing for countless tomorrows by joining the President’s Council today.
