Graduate education prepares students to make significant contributions to society. It is a time of apprenticeship, when individuals work with some of the nation's best engineers, researchers, and educators. They learn to pass on their skills and knowledge as they work with younger students in team-oriented laboratories. They learn to communicate their expertise in classroom lectures where their enthusiasm helps to engage the next generation. The ability to offer support is often pivotal in attracting high-achieving, dedicated graduate students.
Fellowships honor the student's prior achievements.
Most importantly, perhaps, a named graduate fellowship carries the message that there are successful engineers who value a student's achievements and potential. Endowed Graduate Fellowships Offer recognition, reward, and encouragement for a student's initiative and hard work. Allow gifted students to take a long view of their education and concentrate on their education rather than funding. Help attract highly recruited, outstanding minority and female students who provide the role models for those who follow. Encourage and support future engineering faculty members.