MARION, OH (MARION COUNTY NOW)—A Marion couple with deep roots in the community has established a new scholarship fund at Marion Technical College, aiming to support local students pursuing careers in information technology. The Tammi and Rob Cowell Scholarship Fund will be awarded annually to a second-year IT student who is a graduate of Harding High School.
Tammi Cowell, a distinguished alumna of Harding High School and a member of Marion Tech’s Alumni Hall of Fame, emphasized the couple’s desire to give back to the community that fostered their own success. “We were surprised that there wasn’t a scholarship for Harding students yet,” Rob Cowell said. “It’s exciting to be able to do. I love Marion Tech.”
Tammi, who currently serves as the Treasurer and Chief Financial Officer of Tri-Rivers Career Center, credits scholarships and tuition reimbursement for allowing her to graduate from Marion Tech debt-free. “We are pleased to do it,” Tammi said. “I’m proud of the close-knit community. I grew up here. I got an education here. I want to give back here.”
Rob, a Ridgedale graduate, served as a firefighter for 38 years and as a safety director. The couple has witnessed Marion’s significant growth and resilience. “It was awesome. I love my job,” Rob said. “Marion is resilient.” Tammi added, “We have a lot of good things in Marion. So many businesses have popped up in downtown. We love Marion!”
Tammi’s own educational journey began at Marion Tech as a young, working mother. Encouraged by coworkers, she utilized a transfer program to earn her bachelor’s degree from Mount Vernon Nazarene University (MVNU) after two years at Marion Tech, and later her master’s degree from MVNU. She has received multiple statewide awards for excellence in financial stewardship.
“Marion Tech was a great place to start!” Tammi exclaimed. “You don’t have to stop. It was easy to transfer and it was a great cost.”
Dr. Ryan McCall, president of Marion Technical College, echoed this sentiment, stating, “Marion Tech is a springboard. It has flexible, convenient options to meet your needs, especially for working parents. Our average student age is 27.”
With among the lowest tuition rates in Ohio, new scholarships like the Cowells’ make higher education even more accessible. “Parents should think about that,” Tammi advised. “Both of our children graduated debt-free. That’s a great gift.” The Cowells’ children are now back in Marion, one as a teacher, and their grandchildren are being raised in the community.
Tammi has also been actively involved with Marion Tech post-graduation, serving on the advisory committee for the business program for many years. She believes in the importance of giving back and community pride. “I carry the values of resilience, respect, and small-town strength in everything I do,” Cowell said.
Ellen Messenger, Vice President of the Marion Tech Foundation Board of Directors, has known the Cowells for over 30 years. “They always have a heart for students and want them to succeed,” Messenger said. “Tammi’s always trying to make things work for students. This is another way for her to help students. I hope this scholarship fund grows!” Messenger highlighted Marion Tech’s diverse pathways to success, including short-term certificates, associate’s degrees, and a new Bachelor of Science in Nursing program. “I’ve taught here. I believe student should look at Marion Tech first,” Messenger added.
Mike Stuckey, director of the Marion Technical College Foundation, expressed his appreciation for the couple’s dedication. “I appreciate Tammi and Rob’s advocacy for Marion Tech,” Stuckey said. “It’s genuine and from the heart. This is a generous way to help students in need succeed.”
The first Tammi and Rob Cowell Scholarship will be awarded this fall. For more information on donating or learning about available scholarships at Marion Tech, visit the MTC Foundation website.