Dr. James and Betsy Stoddard Scholarship

James F. Stoddard is a native of Michigan, born in Alpena, Michigan. After high school, he attended the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor, graduating with a Bachelor of Science Degree in 1962. He entered medical school at the University of Michigan, graduating in 1966 with a Doctor of Medicine Degree. Internship and surgical training was interrupted by two years in the military service, followed by three additional years of training in ears, nose and throat (ENT).

In 1973, the Stoddards moved to Bay City and Dr. Stoddard practiced ENT from 1973 until his retirement in 2005. During those years, the family thrived and learned the basics of life – do your best, help others whenever you can, and be thankful for what you have.

Mrs. Stoddard, who was a nurse by training and a humanitarian by nature, became a pilot. She owned her own plane and to use her skills, she joined Wings of Mercy, an organization that takes individuals to medical centers for care that may not be available in the local area (organ transplants, etc.). This service was provided at no charge. Mrs. Stoddard led an incredibly active life and, unfortunately, she died unexpectedly on May 3, 2011.

The Stoddards wish to extend the opportunity to help defray the cost of getting someone educated so that the person can be more productive and, perhaps sometime in the future, the deed can be returned.