The Eaton Rapids Medical Center (ERMC) Foundation is proud to announce Robert Noyes and Ella Reaves as the recipients of its 2026 scholarships. Each student has been awarded $2,000 to support their continued education in the healthcare field.
Robert Noyes is currently attending Grand Valley State University, where he is pursuing a dual major in Biomedical Sciences and Behavioral Neuroscience, along with a minor in Psychology.
“My passion for science and the healthcare field began at a young age, shaped by numerous hospital visits due to soccer injuries,” said Robert. “While these experiences were physically challenging, they also exposed me to the healthcare system and, more importantly, to the kind of physician I aspire to become.”
Robert shared that one healthcare professional, Dr. Norris of MSU Sports Medicine, had a lasting impact on him. “At every visit, he made a deliberate effort to kneel to my eye level and speak directly to me rather than my parents. In doing so, he made me feel heard, respected, and valued, not just as a patient, but as an individual,” he explained.
He hopes to become a physician who prioritizes empathy, connection, and patient-centered care. “I aspire to be the kind of doctor who makes a meaningful difference in patients’ lives, just as Dr. Norris did in mine,” Robert added. “With this support, I will continue striving to become not only a skilled physician, but one who creates a lasting, positive impact within my community.”
Robert believes healthcare must evolve, beginning at the front lines with compassionate and respectful patient interactions. He said his desire to become a doctor is not simply the result of his academic journey, but the continuation of a long-held purpose centered on making patients feel seen, heard, and valued.
In addition to his academic pursuits, Robert is involved in the Grand Valley State University Pre-Med Club and is a member of the Michigan State University College of Human Medicine Pathways Program, experiences that continue to strengthen his preparation for a future career in medicine.
Ella Reaves is a freshman nursing student at Cedarville University and is pursuing her long-term goal of becoming a Pediatric Nurse Practitioner.
“I chose nursing because it is the first step in becoming a Pediatric Nurse Practitioner,” said Ella. “My desire to pursue this path stems from experiences working with children in various capacities such as babysitting, volunteering at church community outreach events, coaching a soccer team of first graders, and job shadowing for a Pediatric Nurse Practitioner.”
Ella said her interest in healthcare first developed through classes such as AP Biology and Health Occupations, where she discovered a passion for learning about the human body. “Combining these two passions, along with participating in the job shadow, solidified my decision to pursue nursing,” she said. “In this field I want to not only provide nursing care, but also advocate for children and families, ensuring they have the resources and support they need.”
During high school, Ella graduated in the top ten of her class with a 4.00 unweighted GPA while participating in honors and Advanced Placement coursework. She has also volunteered extensively through her church and participated in athletics including soccer, cross country, and track, while also holding leadership roles in National Honor Society and student council.
Ella said she hopes to make a meaningful difference in the lives of children and families through her academic dedication, service experiences, and passion for pediatric nursing.
Each year, the ERMC Foundation awards scholarships to students pursuing degrees in healthcare-related fields. The scholarship aims to support local students in their journey toward a career in healthcare.