The Southwest Tech Foundation is pleased to announce a generous donation from Altus Masonic Lodge #62, made in memory of the late Bedford "Jr" and Marcia Rowland. This donation honors the lifelong commitment Jr had to Southwest Tech and the Southwest Tech Foundation.
After retiring from a distinguished career at Southwest Tech, Jr served on the Foundation's board, bringing his deep passion for education and dedication to helping adults and youth succeed. Both he and Marcia were esteemed educators, leaving a lasting impact on the community.
The donation will provide financial assistance scholarships to adults enrolled at Southwest Tech, supporting students as they work towards completing their workforce certifications. This initiative continues Jr's legacy of fostering educational opportunities and career advancement in the district.
Jr dedicated over half his life to the Career Tech system, serving as an instructor, advisor, and administrator. He was instrumental in developing the Grow Your Own Mechanic program and played a pivotal role in launching the Aviation Maintenance program at Southwest Tech in 1997. By collaborating with Altus Air Force Base and the Federal Aviation Administration, Jr's efforts have enabled hundreds of students to secure high-wage, in-demand careers.
David Braddock, Chair of Southwest Tech Foundation, attended the presentation ceremony at the Masonic Lodge and expressed his gratitude, stating, "Jr was Southwest Tech. His leadership and drive have shaped Southwest Tech into what it is today. We will utilize these funds to assist even more students with memorial scholarships. It only seems fitting that Jr and Marcia are still giving back after their unfortunate passing."
Steve Tuttle of Altus Masonic Lodge #62 spearheaded the donation effort and was thrilled that the Lodge could honor the Rowlands' legacy in such a meaningful way. "We are proud to remember and celebrate Jr and Marcia's dedication to education and their community," Tuttle remarked.
The presentation, held at the Altus Masonic Lodge, featured members of the Lodge alongside Tuttle and Braddock, symbolizing the continued partnership and shared mission to support local education and workforce development.