The Othman Family Scholarship Fund at the Center for Arab American Philanthropy (CAAP) is in honor and a tribute to the remarkable life of Fatimah Lutfi Othman, who passed away on November 28th, 2001. Donations to this fund will support scholarship support for college-bound students at Riverside Academy in Dearborn, Michigan.
Give to this fundFatimah’s Life and Legacy
Born in the town of Abu Dis, Palestine in 1927, Fatimah’s journey was one of resilience. Despite facing the challenges of living under occupation, she raised her six children, instilling in them the values of perseverance and the belief in the power of education. Among her children was Dr. Mohammad Othman, the fundholder of this scholarship fund.
Dr. Othman recalls his mother’s insistence to dream big. Fatimah, though never given the opportunity to receive a formal education herself, was a huge advocate and supporter in her children’s pursuit for one.
The value of persistence was certainly put to the test throughout Dr. Othman’s upbringing. The Six-Day War erupted during his formative years, yet with his mother’s encouragement and support, he went to Jordan for his high school education and later pursued his undergraduate and master studies in biology at the University of Jordan. Returning to Palestine, Dr. Othman taught at Al-Najah University in Nablus, before he got accepted to the University of Michigan in the United States, where he earned his Ph.D. at the School of Public Health. Inspired by his mother’s spirit of giving back, Dr. Othman has also served Riverside Academy board as treasurer for over 18 years.
Fatimah was a pillar of her community, known for her open-door policy in Palestine, welcoming any guests into her home and showering them with her hospitality.
Mission of this Fund
The Othamn Family Scholarship Fund is a testament to the legacy of a remarkable woman whose love, resilience and belief in the power of education continue to inspire generations. A donation to this fund allows her legacy to live on by supporting scholarships for graduating seniors at Riverside Academy in Dearborn, Michigan.
Give to this fund