Barbara J. Bilger ’62 makes transformational gift to Columbia College Nursing Program

Columbia College announced today a transformational gift from Barbara J. Bilger, Class of 1962, in support of the college’s nursing program and the next generation of healthcare professionals while advancing awareness of Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS).

To honor one of the most significant philanthropic investments in school history, Columbia College’s nursing program will now be known as the Barbara J. Bilger Family Nursing Program.

The gift, which was given in memory of Barbara Bilger’s parents, Albert Paul Bilger Sr. and Marjorie Reddick Bilger, will create an endowed fund supporting the growth and long-term success of the nursing program and fund scholarships for nursing students, including support for students impacted by ME/CFS, first-generation college students, out-of-state students and students demonstrating financial need.

“I chose to make this gift to Columbia College because I know the College will use it to create lasting impact for students and the communities they will serve,” said Bilger. “Columbia College has a long history of growth, innovation and changing lives, and I am honored to be part of that legacy. It is particularly meaningful to me that this gift will support future nursing students while also helping raise awareness and understanding of ME/CFS, a condition that has deeply influenced my own journey.”

“I chose to make this gift to Columbia College because I know the College will use it to create lasting impact for students and the communities they will serve”

Barbara J. Bilger ’62

For more than four decades, Bilger has lived with ME/CFS, a complex chronic illness that has profoundly shaped her life and inspired her vision for this gift. Through the nursing program and related educational initiatives, Bilger hopes to help future healthcare professionals better understand the experiences of patients living with chronic and often misunderstood conditions.

Her gift will support the continued expansion of Columbia College’s nursing program, which is now housed in Federal Hall in downtown Columbia and currently enrolls more than 160 students. A dedication of the Barbara J. Bilger Family Nursing Program at Federal Hall (608 E. Cherry St.) is planned for 11 a.m. on Thursday, Sept. 24.

“Barbara’s extraordinary generosity is a powerful investment in the future of Columbia College, our nursing program and the communities our graduates will serve,” said Anita Abbott Timmons ’58, Chair of the Columbia College Board of Trustees. “Her gift reflects the very best of our College: a commitment to education and service to others.”

Bilger has been a devout supporter of Columbia (Christian) College for many years. Her previous philanthropy includes the Barbara Jean Bilger ’62 Scholarship, support for scholarships honoring her grandparents, contributions to the Columbia College Fund and the naming of the BJ Bilger Wing in New Hall.

“We are deeply grateful for Ms. Bilger’s trust in Columbia College and for the momentum she is creating through this remarkable gift,” said Dr. Toby Arquette, President of Columbia College. “Her investment in our students will help prepare compassionate, highly skilled nurses for generations to come.”