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Extended hospital stay leads to appreciation for nurses and Dzikielewski scholarship

When Joe Dzikielewski was a patient in the hospital for seven weeks in 2019, he was impressed with the care provided by his nurses, most of whom were Itawamba Community College graduates.

            “He enjoyed asking them where they went to school and learning more about them,” his wife, Wanda, said.

            That appreciation has led to her establishing the Dr. Joseph F. Dzikielewski Memorial Nursing Scholarship at Itawamba Community College to benefit full-time sophomores in the Associate Degree Nursing program.

            “This is my home and was Joe’s home for 30 years plus,” said the ICC alumnus. “I think ICC is a great place to start an education and a career. It gives our people not only a significant economic opportunity as well as an education that transfers out to the next stage in life. I think it’s extremely important to help younger people who may have to struggle to afford college.”

            Dr. Joe, as he was known, was a counselor at Itawamba Agricultural High School several years ago. For many years, he was a full professor of health and physical education at Cleveland (Tenn.) State Community College. He also taught nutrition, a core course in the nursing program there for 14 years, as well as first aid and health. His mother was a Licensed Practical Nurse, and his sister, a Registered Nurse. So, the health professional connection and appreciation ran deep.

            Born in Lorain County, Ohio, Dr. Joe grew up in a steel mill town, where he was told by a teacher, “You won’t be successful in school.” He went on to serve in the U.S. Navy and earned not only a college degree but also two master’s degrees, a specialist degree and a doctorate, which was in health, physical education and recreation from the University of Alabama.

            Although he died in 2019 following the lengthy hospital stay, Dr. Joe’s legacy will live on through this scholarship and his appreciation of healthcare providers.

            Recipients of the scholarship must be a resident of one of ICC’s supporting counties and have and maintain a 3.5 grade point average. “Potential for success in the nursing program, financial need and a desire to become a contributing medical professional will be considered in the selection process,” said Michael Upton, director of advancement.

            For more information about contributing to this scholarship or endowment opportunities, contact Upton at maupton@iccms.edu or call (662) 862-8035.



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