The Dowdles established this scholarship to help undergraduates in the College of Computer, Mathematical, and Natural Sciences from underserved communities in Maryland and the District of Columbia gain access to an excellent education and rewarding career opportunities.
Walter R. Dowdle received his undergraduate and master’s degrees from the University of Alabama and completed his Ph.D. in microbiology at the University of Maryland. He worked for 35 years at the United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and 18 years with the Task Force for Global Health. Within these roles, Dowdle collaborated with the World Health Organization on global initiatives to eradicate smallpox and poliomyelitis.
As a Korean War veteran, Walter’s education and career would not have been possible without the loving partnership and sacrifices of his wife, Mabel I. Dowdle. The Dowdles came from caring families who struggled to provide financial support for their children’s college education. They appreciate the value of science education as the foundation for discovering the wonders of the world.