Both Dennis and Smith started pursuing their goals of making a difference in the world while earning their undergraduate degrees at Temple. And, both were awarded Truman scholarships for their commitment to public service.

In March, Kylie Patterson, a junior and double major in African American studies and political science, joined the list of Temple scholars selected to receive the $30,000 award, which will help support her graduate studies.


Rooted in President Harry S. Truman's belief that education promotes the general welfare of the country, the Truman scholarship is awarded to college juniors with exceptional leadership potential who are committed to careers in government, the nonprofit or advocacy sectors, education and public service.

Like her predecessors, Patterson said she is committed to taking what she’s learned as a Temple student in to the world.

With the assistance of the Truman scholarship, Patterson will pursue a master’s degree in public administration with a specialization in policy analysis from New York University. She hopes to go on to earn a law degree.

“As a public servant, and more specifically an elected official, I would like to anticipate policy and constitutional issues and ensure that I propose bills that will never require a Supreme Court decision,” Patterson, who is also an Honor’s student, wrote in her Truman application.”

Patterson’s passion for politics and social justice began as a student at East Stroudsburg North High School, where she served at student body president.

“I knew that I wanted to go into politics,” Patterson said. “I hope to continue on this track and have the opportunity to shape and enact policies that help improve the communities that I’ve been elected to serve.”


Each year, hundreds of students compete for roughly 60 awards. The rigorous selection process requires that good candidates have a strong record of public service, as well as a policy proposal that addresses a particular issue in society.


“Kylie is an outstanding student who has the potential to make great accomplishments on Temple’s campus and in the world of politics,” said Ruth Ost, director of the Temple University’s Honors Program.