A Lasting Gift for Future Caregivers
LAFAYETTE, La. — A remarkable legacy of faith, education, and compassion continues to bless future generations of nurses at the University of Louisiana at Lafayette. Through the generosity of the late Dolores C. Bess and her husband, William, nursing students are receiving critical support as they prepare to answer God’s call to care for others.
Dolores Bess devoted 25 years to teaching in UL Lafayette’s College of Nursing & Health Sciences, helping shape the lives and careers of countless healthcare professionals. With degrees from Vanderbilt University, Tulane University, and Louisiana State University, Bess viewed nursing not simply as a career but as a ministry of service. Her life reflected the biblical principle found in Galatians 5:13, “Serve one another humbly in love.”
A Scholarship Built on Purpose
In 2012, Dolores and William Bess established the Dolores C. Bess Endowed Scholarship in Nursing to assist upper-level nursing students during the challenging clinical phase of their education. Following her passing in 2024 at the age of 91, her estate significantly increased the scholarship endowment, ensuring that her passion for education would continue to impact students for years to come.
According to Dr. Lisa Broussard, Dean of the College of Nursing & Health Sciences, Bess desired to leave a meaningful legacy that would strengthen students during one of the most demanding seasons of their academic journey. The scholarship has already supported more than 100 students, and its expanded funding now provides substantial tuition assistance to a select group of future nurses during their final four semesters.
Beginning this fall, recipients will proudly carry the title of Dolores Bess Scholars.
Meet the Inaugural Dolores Bess Scholars
The first students to receive this distinguished honor are Maria Moya and Alyssa Theriot, two young women whose personal experiences inspired them to pursue lives of service through nursing.
Moya, a Lafayette native and the oldest of six children, credits her hardworking parents as her greatest inspiration. Her desire to become a nurse grew while caring for her grandmother, who faced significant language barriers during a nursing home transition.
Witnessing nurses extend compassion, patience, and dignity to her grandmother left a lasting impression. As a bilingual caregiver, Moya hopes to bridge communication gaps and provide comfort to patients who may feel isolated or afraid. Her vision reflects Proverbs 31:8, which encourages believers to “speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves.”
Answering God’s Call Through Care
For Theriot, who grew up in Catahoula, the calling to nursing became clear while watching her grandmother battle ALS. During that difficult season, a hospice nurse demonstrated extraordinary kindness and compassion.
Theriot recalls how the nurse faithfully sat with her grandmother, offering comfort, conversation, and peace during her final days. Through that experience, she learned the profound importance of caregiving and discovered a desire to help others during life’s most vulnerable moments. Her story reflects Matthew 25:40, where Jesus teaches that caring for those in need is an act of service to Him.
Both women describe being named Dolores Bess Scholars as one of the greatest honors of their academic careers. The financial assistance allows them to focus on their studies and clinical responsibilities while preparing to serve future patients with excellence and compassion.
A Legacy That Reflects Christ’s Love
As the Dolores Bess Scholarship continues to transform lives, it serves as a powerful reminder that one faithful life can impact generations. Through her generosity and dedication, Dolores Bess continues to encourage future nurses to serve others with skill, humility, and Christ-like compassion.
Prayer for the Community
Heavenly Father, we thank You for the life and legacy of Dolores Bess and for the opportunities being provided to future nurses through her generosity. Bless Maria Moya, Alyssa Theriot, and all nursing students as they prepare to care for those who are hurting and in need. Grant them wisdom, strength, compassion, and perseverance. Comfort families facing illness and loss, and guide healthcare workers as they serve our communities. May Your love shine through every act of care and kindness. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
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