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In the fall of 2020, Hans Peter Bodvarsson came to UCLA from his hometown of St. Cloud, Minnesota. A multi-sport athlete, hiker and cognitive science major, Hans was planning to graduate in 2024 but passed away unexpectedly during his first year on campus.
That same year, Örn and Mary Bodvarsson, Hans’ parents, established the Hans Peter Bodvarsson Memorial Scholarship. Their goal is to help other cognitive science students who share his dream of earning a bachelor’s degree from UCLA.
“Hans cared a lot about the futures and livelihoods of his fellow Gen Zers and would have so appreciated knowing that we — and others who also cared for him — would support his generation,” said Mary.
The first recipient of the scholarship is Gisselle F. of Riverside, California.
“I have a lot of interests and wanted a major that covers many aspects of the mind,” she explained about her decision to focus on cognitive science. “The combination of psychology, neuroscience, philosophy and linguistics provides a comprehensive understanding of cognition. I find it fascinating. I’ve always wanted to study psychology but was also interested in a broader view of how our brains work.”
A first-generation college student, Gisselle noted that the four-year scholarship has made it possible for her to attend UCLA and focus on earning her degree rather than on earning a living. The Bodvarsson scholarship also carries added meaning for her.
“Learning about the donors’ story and motivations has truly touched my heart and given me a deeper appreciation for the impact of scholarship donations. Receiving this particular scholarship from donors who seem genuinely interested in getting to know me and my educational goals is a good feeling,” she said.
The Bodvarssons are not alone in funding the scholarship that honors their son. Even in the short time Hans was a UCLA student, he touched the lives of the people around him and made an indelible impression.
And so it is no surprise that additional donations have come from a fundraising source that pays tribute to Hans’ love of people and bringing them together — a powderpuff football tournament organized by his fraternity, Sigma Phi Epsilon. The Bruin chapter held the first competition in 2021, drawing the participation of 15 teams from UCLA sororities. The fraternity has continued to host the event each year since.
Jacob S., one of Hans’ fellow fraternity members, said, “I’ll never forget the way Hans took a genuine interest in others. Hans was always looking to hear — or tell — a good story and enjoyed meeting new and interesting people. He stood out because of his kindness, interest in life and love of adventure.”
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During his time on campus, Hans impressed those around him with his interest in people and his love of adventure.
On Hans’ 18th birthday, he and his brother Gunnar, shown here on his right, celebrated his acceptance to UCLA — his dream school.
