Adam Ferrari, the CEO of Phoenix Capital Group, understands the impact healthcare professionals can have on the lives of patients—particularly those facing physical disabilities. In 2020, Ferrari launched the Adam Ferrari Health Science Scholarship with a mission: to support the next generation of healthcare professionals who are committed to improving the quality of life for individuals with physical disabilities.
With the relaunch of this scholarship, Ferrari is reaffirming his commitment to fostering a more compassionate and inclusive healthcare community. The scholarship will now award $20,000 to one deserving student, doubling the previous scholarship amount.
A Personal Inspiration Behind the Scholarship
For the Ferrari family, health sciences hold deep personal meaning. Adam’s father, Dan Ferrari, a former police officer, spent his life serving others and encouraging his family to honor their faith, cherish one another, and care for those around them. In 2016, Dan was diagnosed with transverse myelitis, a rare neurological disorder that left him quadriplegic. This experience profoundly shaped the family’s perspective on healthcare and the importance of compassionate professionals.
In honor of Dan’s service and the care he has received, the Ferrari family launched the Adam Ferrari Health Science Scholarship to support the next generation of healthcare professionals, particularly those dedicated to caring for individuals with physical disabilities.
“I’ve always believed that education and empathy are the foundation of healthcare,” says Adam Ferrari. “I wanted to create something that supports students who not only excel academically but also have a genuine passion for making a difference in the lives of those who need it most.”
Through this scholarship, the Ferraris aim to expand awareness and support for healthcare professionals while honoring Dan’s legacy of compassion, faith, and service.
Who the Scholarship Supports
The Adam Ferrari Health Science Scholarship is open to first-year college students across the U.S. pursuing degrees in health sciences. Applicants must demonstrate academic excellence with a minimum GPA of 3.5, but Ferrari emphasizes that the scholarship is about more than grades.
The ideal candidate is someone deeply committed to helping individuals with physical disabilities—someone who understands the complexities of patient care and aims to make a lasting impact. To apply, students must submit a 1,000-word essay reflecting on their experiences or motivations for focusing on this area of healthcare.
“We’re not just looking for high achievers,” Ferrari explains. “We’re looking for students who will use their knowledge to improve the lives of others.”
Past Scholarship Recipients: Inspiring Stories of Dedication
In 2021, Katherine Schoen, a senior at Alma College, became the first recipient of the Adam Ferrari Health Science Scholarship. Katherine was selected for her academic achievements and commitment to supporting individuals with disabilities, which she demonstrated through her volunteer work at Okemos Special Needs Day Camp and Sparrow Hospital’s Mary Free Bed Unit.
Katherine expressed how the scholarship helped her pursue her dream of becoming an occupational therapist. “This scholarship relieved the financial burden of graduate school and allowed me to continue helping those with physical disabilities,” she shared.
In 2022, the scholarship was awarded to Jordan Spangenberg, a pre-occupational therapy student. Jordan’s essay reflected on her study abroad experience in Sweden, where she met a young man who had suffered a spinal cord injury. The encounter deepened her understanding of the challenges faced by individuals with disabilities and the value of empathy in patient care.
“While I can never fully understand what it’s like to live with a disability, each encounter has shaped the empathy I hold and continues to grow within me,” Jordan shared.
She was awarded $10,000 to continue her studies at Texas Woman’s University, where she aims to lead in improving patient care.
A Vision for the Future
Adam Ferrari’s vision for the scholarship goes beyond financial support. He hopes to create a community of healthcare professionals who drive change, innovate solutions, and elevate the quality of care for those who need it most. By supporting students early in their careers, Ferrari envisions building a network of leaders who will break barriers and advocate for the underserved in the healthcare system.
“We want to encourage students to dream big and push boundaries,” Ferrari says. “In 10 years, I hope we’ll have a network of past recipients who are not only making a difference on the frontlines of patient care but also conducting research or leading healthcare initiatives that impact millions.”
The Application Process
The Adam Ferrari Health Science Scholarship will award $20,000 to a deserving student who demonstrates academic excellence and a genuine commitment to patient care for individuals with physical disabilities. Applicants must submit an essay highlighting their motivation and experiences in the health sciences field.
The application deadline is December 15, 2024, and the winner will be announced after a thorough review by the scholarship committee. The selection process considers academic performance, volunteer work, and career aspirations, identifying candidates with the potential to make a lasting impact in healthcare.
Continuing to Make a Difference
As CEO of Phoenix Capital Group, Adam Ferrari believes that success in business comes with the responsibility to give back. With nearly two decades of experience in the oil and gas industry, Ferrari has always championed the idea that business leaders should leverage their platforms to create positive change. Under his leadership, Phoenix Capital Group has earned a reputation for integrity and strong partnerships, not only in mineral acquisitions but also in community involvement.
Ferrari’s philanthropic efforts include supporting organizations such as St. Jude Children’s Hospital, Freedom Service Dogs, Denver Rescue Mission, Coats for Colorado, and Next Steps of Chicago. Through both Phoenix Capital Group’s success and personal initiatives like the Adam Ferrari Health Science Scholarship, Ferrari demonstrates how business leaders can make a lasting impact on healthcare and the broader community.
“The scholarship is just one way to give back,” Ferrari says. “My hope is that it inspires others to do the same—to use their resources and platforms to help those in need.”
For more information on how to apply, eligibility criteria, and the selection process, visit the Adam Ferrari Health Science Scholarship website.
