For students pursuing a degree in engineering, a scholarship can mean more than just financial assistance. At the College of Engineering's 2026 Fall Scholarship Reception, student scholarship recipients had the opportunity to connect one-on-one with their donors whose generosity supports their education. They had the chance to share conversations about their experiences and aspirations and share the impact that the scholarships had on their journey.
Ulrick "Rico" Joseph, Pauline Joseph and Trae Byrd
For Ulrick "Rico" Joseph, the inspiration behind the Ulrick Joseph Engineering Scholarship is rooted in his own experience at Temple University as a student. While preparing for the new semester in July of 1979, Joseph suffered a spinal cord injury that left him paralyzed on his right side for more than a month. With the support of the Temple community, family, and friends, against all odds, he was able to power through his pain and return to campus to continue his studies.
That experience changed Joseph's perspective on the importance of community and the lasting impact of generosity. Guided by principles such as “to whom much is given, much is expected,” “treat others like you like to be treated,” and “be a man for others,” he established his scholarship as a way to pay forward the kindness and support he received nearly five decades ago.
Today, that legacy continues through students like Trae Byrd, mechanical engineering student, and the recipient of the Ulrick Joseph Engineering Scholarship.
"Receiving the Ulrick Joseph Engineering Scholarship means a lot to me because pursuing engineering takes more than just showing up to class; it takes persistence, sacrifice, and a commitment to keep pushing forward even when things get difficult," Byrd said.
Greg Kelly, Angela Varughese and Dean Chris Hansen
Their connection reflects the lasting impact of scholarship giving. The support one person receives can be life-changing and create a legacy for change.
That type of encouragement is true to the experience of Angela Varughese, a mechanical engineering student who serves as the safety coordinator for Temple Formula Racing. She is the recipient of the "Keep Going" Scholarship established by Greg and Michele Kelly.
"The Keep Going scholarship enables me to focus on my academic pursuits, but more importantly serves as a meaningful reminder to persevere through difficulties," Varughese said.
Through her connection with Greg Kelly, Varughese has the opportunity to share how that support makes a difference as she balances her academic pursuits with hands-on engineering experience.
"Like a lot of Temple students, we had to grind at times. That’s what I admire in Temple students—they’re going to work hard no matter what obstacles they face,” said Greg Kelly.
Ella Brasten (scholar), Marco Arnone, Debbie Arnone and Farhad Moheby
For other donors, supporting Temple engineering students is also a way to preserve a family's legacy and invest in the next generation. That commitment is especially meaningful to the Arnone family, whose connection to Temple’s College of Engineering spans multiple generations.
Farhad Moheby, a mechanical engineering student, received support through the Arnone Foundation Scholarship. His journey has been shaped by gratitude for those who have helped him along the way.
“I’ve learned that success isn’t defined by hard work alone, but also by the people who support us, the challenges that shape us, and the purpose that keeps us moving forward,” Moheby said. “Knowing that others believe in my potential pushes me to keep going and reminds me how much generosity can shape someone’s future,” he said.
For Marco Arnone, President of ENSER Corporation, the opportunity to meet scholarship recipients and hear their stories is an essential part of giving. "What makes this scholarship meaningful is getting to know the students behind it and seeing where their determination can take them,” Arnone said.
By bringing scholarship recipients together with their respective donors, the Fall Scholarship Reception creates space for conversations that extend far beyond academic achievement and basic financial support. Students can share their goals and express their gratitude while donors gain a firsthand understanding of the individuals whose future they are helping to shape.
Whether inspired by personal experiences, a commitment to family legacy, or a desire to help students overcome challenges, these scholarships all share the common belief in the potential of a future engineer.
To learn more about giving or establishing a scholarship, please contact Amanda Collett, Assistant Dean of Development at amanda.collett@temple.edu