Thomas E. Desjardins Memorial Scholarship

Award Information

The Thomas E. Desjardins Memorial Scholarship is given to undergraduate and graduate college student(s) of high moral character and with high academic achievement who also has involvement in extracurricular activities. All qualified engineering students, including those in graduate programs, are encouraged to apply. Applicants should demonstrate a strong commitment to the discipline of Transportation Engineering in their coursework and outside activities. The scholarship award shall be for a single academic year. There shall be no restriction as to the location of residence and high school attendance, but the recipient must be a student at an accredited Civil Engineering school in one of the New England States.

Application Process

Applications for the 2006 scholarship are now available. The submittal deadline is June 1, 2006. Two scholarships, one each for an undergraduate and graduate student, are presented in September.

The process includes a standard two-page form. In addition, a faculty member at an accredited Civil Engineering school in New England, or a Member or Affiliate Member of the New England Section of ITE, must sign the application form.

Past Recipients

Past recipients include:

• 2005 Nick Scenna from Merrimack College and David Hurwitz from UMass Amherst
• 2004 Michael Seluga from Northeastern University
• 2003 Emily Knapp from Northeastern University
• 2002 Michelle Langone from Northeastern University
• 2001 Jeff Gaeta from Northeastern University
• 2000 Michael Knodler, Jr. from UMass Amherst

About Thomas E. Desjardins

The Thomas E. Desjardins Memorial Scholarship was established in December 1999. Tom was an active member of the Section and was particularly involved in the Young Professionals Group. His spirit and dedication extended to all aspects of his life. Tom loved his family, his friends, and engineering, and truly lived life to the fullest. His competitive spirit and sportsmanship were evident in his approach to most everything: Tom always wanted to be the best. Tom was from Westminster, Massachusetts.

Annual Golf Tournament

Golf was one of Tom's avocations. The New England Section felt that hosting an annual golf tournament was the most fitting way to pay tribute to him while helping to build the scholarship fund. The tournament is held annually in May and attracts nearly 100 golfers. Funds are also raised through donations.