Jun 11, 2025
Ben M. Determan
IRON MOUNTAIN — The Bay College Foundation has established the Ben M. Determan Memorial Scholarship, honoring the life and legacy of Benjamin “Ben” Mathias Determan, a longtime Dickinson County resident and passionate lifelong learner.
The $1,000 scholarship will be awarded for the 2025-2026 academic year, with plans for continued support in future years.
The scholarship will be awarded to a Bay College student who meets these criteria: Dickinson County residency, either part-time or full-time enrollment, status as an adult — age 26 or older — learner and a declared interest in a health care-related program. The health care focus reflects the excellent and compassionate care Determan received later in life, a factor his family noted was deeply meaningful.
Born in Clinton, Iowa, in 1930, Determan’s journey through life was marked by perseverance, global career success and an enduring commitment to community. A proud U.S. Army veteran and University of Iowa graduate thanks to the G.I. Bill, Determan built a distinguished career in the water pump industry, eventually serving as president of The Water Systems Council and vice president of the National Groundwater Association. His work took him across North America and to Egypt and Saudi Arabia.
After retiring in 1997, Determan relocated to the Upper Peninsula, where he became an active member of the community. He was a leader in Bay College’s Lifelong Learning program, a board member of the Dickinson County Conservation District and a familiar face at local concerts and events. He was known for his boundless curiosity, generous spirit and signature phrase — “Why wouldn’t I?” — that encouraged others to embrace new experiences.
“Our dad believed deeply in education, personal growth and giving back to the community,” daughters Molly Griffin and Ginni Henke said in a statement. “We’re proud to honor his legacy by supporting students who are finding their own path — just as he always encouraged us to do.”
Bay College students can apply for scholarships online at www.baycollege.edu/scholarships.
Founded in 1972, the Bay College Foundation connects individuals and organizations with opportunities to transform lives through higher education. To learn more about the foundation or ways to give, go to www.baycollege.edu/foundation, email foundation@baycollege.edu, or call 906-217-1700.
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