Remembering Dr. Colleen Rundell

The Dr. Colleen Rundell Memorial Scholarship

The Dr. Colleen Rundell Memorial Scholarship honors the life of a consummate public health advocate, leader, and assistant teaching professor at Northern Arizona University. 

In Dr. Rundell's honor, please join us in establishing this memorial scholarship, which will be awarded to exemplary students who embrace the ethos of Colleen’s life and strive to make a difference as health professionals.

A Legacy of Compassionate Care

Throughout her career, Colleen served patients in nursing homes, rehabilitation centers, and home health settings. She became the first female non-veteran administrator of the Vermont State Veterans Home, where she passionately advocated for and assisted those who honorably served their country. As a result of her impactful work, Colleen was asked to lead the National Association of State Veterans Homes, where she guided this group in revising federal and state policies protecting and promoting the health of America's veterans.

Being an assistant teaching professor at Northern Arizona University was the culmination of Colleen’s affection and care built over a lifetime. Every experience, every patient she protected, all prepared her for the most sacred work: preparing healthcare professionals to serve with conviction, compassion, and commitment to patient-centered practice. She was an educator because care, when held right, becomes wisdom meant to be shared. That was her way of life.

Give in Honor of Dr. Rundell’s Life of Service

Please join us in celebrating Dr. Rundell’s legacy at NAU by making a gift in her honor.

Our ultimate goal is to raise $25,000 to establish an endowed scholarship that will benefit students for years to come. Until we reach that goal, we are committed to awarding the scholarship annually to deserving Health and Human Services students, ensuring Dr. Rundell's legacy continues to impact our community right away.

Those Who Carry Her Memory Forward

She is survived by her husband, Dan, her sons, Jake and Nick, and a wide circle of students, colleagues, and loved ones who knew her kindness, clarity, and strength.