In honor of Matthew Hamilton, who was a Physical Therapist Assistant student at OCCC, the Matthew David Hamilton Memorial Scholarship has been established by his PTA classmates, faculty and friends at OCCC.

Matthew Hamilton lost his life in a car accident last Dec. 16.

“This scholarship was created to keep his spirit alive and to honor his passion for the profession,” said Kim Holding, Public Relations Specialist.

At OCCC, Hamilton had successfully completed the PTA program academic requirements and was awaiting full-time clinical internships before graduation.

“He was gifted at many things — especially encouraging, motivating and truly caring about patients and co-workers,” Holding said.

Matt also worked as a physical therapy aide with the geriatric population.

Holding said the scholarship will be helpful to those following in Hamilton’s footsteps.

“The annual scholarship will help reduce the financial burden on a PTA student as he or she prepares to join the physical therapy profession,” she said.

Money for the scholarship will be raised in a number of ways.

Holding said many students and friends will run in the 2014 Oklahoma City Memorial Marathon in Matt’s honor to help raise money for the scholarship fund.

T-Shirts also can be purchased for $30 until April 10.

“Funds that are raised will go directly to the Matthew David Hamilton Scholarship fund,” Holding said.

To donate to the Matthew Hamilton Memorial Schlorship Fund, visit www.occc.edu/foundation/donation-form or send your donation to the Oklahoma City Community College Foundation. For more information, contact Holding at 405-682-1611, ext.7257.