D. Bruce Wharton (1954-2026) will be remembered as a hero of impact in Zimbabwe and internationally. Without Bruce's guidance, mentorship and support, the original USAP program, Education Matters and USAP Community School would not exist. As our inaugural Chair of the Education Matters Africa Foundation Board of Directors and continued guiding light until recently when he grew ill, Bruce’s leadership allowed us to grow and deepen our mission. We will miss his compassion, clarity of thought and sharp wit dearly.
Bruce Wharton served as a U.S. foreign service officer from 1985-2017, working at U.S. Embassies in Argentina, Bolivia, Chile, Guatemala, South Africa and Zimbabwe. He also served in high level public diplomacy posts in Washington. Bruce had a deep affection for the people of Zimbabwe, including a love for Tuku music and a commitment to the future of Zimbabwean youth.
We are proud to launch a scholarship for USAP Community School in Bruce’s memory and honor, to further the belief he demonstrated in the potential of Zimbabwean youth to change their families, communities and the nation. It costs $5000 a year for each student we are able to bring to experience the transformative education at USAP Community School. Your support of this scholarship fund will continue Bruce’s legacy with USAP and Education Matters, enabling us to work with more remarkable young people in Zimbabwe.
