William "Bill" Ahlborn Memorial Scholarship - Crafton Hills College
William "Bill" Ahlborn
 

Honoring a Life of Service, Learning & Exploration

William Owen “Bill” Ahlborn (March 6, 1925 – July 3, 2025) was a WWII veteran, Purple Heart recipient, author, journalist, globe-trotter, and beloved educator whose boundless curiosity and generosity enriched Crafton Hills College and the wider community.

The Bill Ahlborn Memorial Earth Science Scholarship supports Crafton Hills College students majoring in Earth Science, enabling recipients to:

  • Pursue research projects in geology, geography, and related fields
  • Attend and present at regional or national academic conferences
  • Participate in field trips and education-enrichment experiences

This scholarship continues Bill’s lifelong passion for Earth Science and exploration, helping inspire the next generation of geoscientists .

Bill’s Legacy at Crafton Hills College

Outstanding Alumnus of 2020: Recognized for his contributions to CHC’s educational mission 
Bill & Paula Ahlborn Courtyard: Dedicated at Crafton Hills in April 2022 to honor the couple’s enduring support

Why Your Support Matters

  • Invests in student success: Assists Earth Science majors with essential funds to advance their academic and professional journeys.
  • Promotes research & discovery: Funds allow students to engage in meaningful hands-on research and share their work on higher platforms.
  • Preserves Bill Ahlborn’s legacy: Every donation honors the adventurous, curious, and educational spirit that defined Bill’s 100‑year life.

In Memory of Bill Ahlborn

Bill passed away peacefully on July 3, 2025, at the age of 100. His life—defined by service in WWII (Battle of the Bulge), global exploration of 150+ countries, teaching at CHC and other colleges, and a decade of cruise ship lectures—served as a model of lifelong learning. Inspired by CHC courses in 1980, Bill went on to earn a master’s in Geography and later taught field trips and lectures well into his 90s.

Be Part of the Journey

Your contribution ensures that future Earth Science students can follow in Bill’s footsteps—discovering the natural world, presenting their research, and fostering curiosity for decades to come.