A Brief History of the Scholarship Fund

The Brigadier General Donald B. Wagner Perpetual Scholarship Fund was established in Texas in 1982 as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Created to honor Brig Gen Wagner—the first United States Air Force Medical Service Corps Officer to achieve the rank of general officer—the Fund was spearheaded by Colonel (Ret.) James T. Pearce and five fellow senior MSC officers. Their vision: to recognize General Wagner’s trailblazing service and provide meaningful support to the MSC family through higher education.

Over the past four decades, the Fund has awarded scholarships to deserving students pursuing careers in healthcare and related fields. With a strong tradition of service and philanthropy, it continues to thrive through the dedication of its Board of Directors, the generosity of MSC alumni and supporters, and the drive of students whose futures are shaped by its support.

In recent years, the Fund has reinvigorated its efforts, revived its nonprofit status and expanded its Board to ensure long-term sustainability. As it celebrates over 40 years of impact, the Wagner Fund remains steadfast in its mission—to support and inspire the next generation of leaders.