Carl and Ann Bothman Scholarship

Scholarship Criteria: At the time of the award, eligible student recipients shall be enrolled as full-time students. Students should be from Oregon, maintain a GPA of 3.25 or higher, and represent and demonstrate the high ideals of the Mission, Vision, and Values of the University of Northwestern.

Scholarship Story:

The Carl and Ann Bothman Scholarship was established in 1999 by Carl and Ann Bothman, whose lives were shaped by faith, service, family, and a deep appreciation for the impact of Christian higher education. Through this scholarship, they sought to create opportunities for students from their home state of Oregon to attend the University of Northwestern and grow both academically and spiritually.

Carl Bothman was born in Portland, Oregon, in 1935 and grew up in Portland and Salem. After graduating from Salem High School, he attended the University of Northwestern, where he studied Bible and business. He graduated from UNW in 1963, and his years at Northwestern helped prepare him for a lifetime of leadership, service, and Christian ministry in both his professional and personal life.

Carl met his wife, Ann, while working at a vocational school, camp, and conference center on Thetis Island in British Columbia. Together they built a strong family, raising four children and later enjoying the blessing of numerous grandchildren. Throughout their marriage, Carl and Ann remained committed to their faith and to serving others.

Although many people in the Eugene area knew Carl as “Mr. Dairy Queen,” his influence extended far beyond the business community. After returning to Oregon in 1972, he became a respected business leader and eventually purchased the Coburg Road Dairy Queen in Eugene, OR. He played an important role in strengthening the Dairy Queen brand throughout the Pacific Northwest and was known for his leadership, work ethic, and commitment to excellence.

Carl also devoted himself to serving in his local church. Whether through leadership, mentoring, or encouragement, he invested in people and sought to reflect Christ in every area of life. Family members remember him as a loving husband, father, grandfather, and faithful Christian whose life demonstrated consistent service to others.

The Bothmans desired that this scholarship should support students from Oregon. By helping students from their home state attend the University of Northwestern, they hoped to encourage future generations to pursue academic excellence while growing in their relationship with Christ. Today, the Carl and Ann Bothman Scholarship continues that legacy. Through this investment, Carl and Ann’s commitment to faith, education, and service continues to impact students for years to come.