Joe, Trish, and Matthew Duncan Bronz

This scholarship is established by Trish and Joe Bronz in honor of their son, Matthew, who was born with Down Syndrome. When they learned their son had special needs, Mr. and Mrs. Bronz immediately researched the services available to help Matt grow and develop to his fullest potential. He was enrolled in the Early-On program at 3 months old with visiting teachers who advised the family on exercises, interaction, and stimulation. Matt was born with a hole in his heart that healed on its own over time, and has had occupational therapy, physical therapy to develop muscle tone, and speech therapy.

His parents are very proud of all Matt has accomplished. He graduated from Heritage High School, and continues his education at the Transition Center where he attends a work site area daily. He began playing basketball through Special Olympics in high school, and continues to play on that team. He has a wonderful smile and is very kind and focused on helping others. He has a positive self-image and good sense of self-esteem, and a sense of pride in himself and his accomplishments. Matt has a large circle of friends who love him, including police officers, fire fighters, and paramedics in Saginaw County, and State Police officers in Bay City. His parents say, “When we take him out, people don’t say ‘hi’ to us, but say ‘hi’ to Matthew!”

Mr. and Mrs. Bronz deeply value the dedication of caring, talented professionals in the special education field who make meaningful contributions to the lives of bright, promising young people with special needs, like Matthew. Through this scholarship, they hope to assist students seeking degrees in special education.