Temple University’s representation within the Fulbright U.S. Student Program has historically been strong. On four occasions, the university has been recognized by the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs as a Fulbright U.S. Student Program Top Producing Institution, and Temple’s latest class of 11 Fulbright recipients further illustrates the university’s commitment to this flagship international educational exchange program. 

“I want to congratulate the Fulbright recipients this year on their achievements,” said Provost Gregory N. Mandel. “These students are exemplary global ambassadors for Temple. Their contributions to educational, scientific and creative endeavors are directly connected to the university’s mission, and I applaud their hard work and dedication.” 

The Fulbright U.S. Student Program provides funding to conduct research for creative projects, pursue graduate study or teach English abroad. During their grants, Fulbright recipients meet, work, live with and learn from the people of the host country, sharing daily experiences. 

“The Fulbright program is one of the most prestigious international exchange programs, and it is incredibly rewarding to see so many Temple students earn this honor,” President Richard M. Englert said. “We are grateful to our faculty and administrative staff members who provide mentorship to our students, and we pride ourselves on how many of our students graduate and then go on to excel as global citizens. The Fulbright program is just one example of the outstanding programs that help our students succeed in this way.” 

One year after receiving the prestigious Goldwater scholarship, Diana Tiburcio has also been named a Fulbright recipient. (Contributed photo)

In addition to the 11 students who have been named Fulbright recipients, an additional four Temple students and alumni have been named Fulbright alternates.  

The Director of Fellowships Advising Barbara Gorka stressed the multidisciplinary nature of this year’s Fulbright grants.  

“The variety of disciplines represented by this year’s recipients—including dance, engineering, secondary education, philosophy, communications and environmental science—shows how flexible the Fulbright is,” Gorka said. “If you have an idea, and can make a case for it, Fulbright wants you to apply! I feel proud of all the students and alumni who applied—they did a great job developing compelling and important projects for their Fulbright year.” 

Fulbright scholarships have taken Temple students and alumni to locations that include Canada, the United Kingdom, Germany, Mexico and Spain. This year’s Fulbright recipients include the following. 

• Isabella Smith, CST ’23, Canada, graduate study (declined award) 
• Ava Arteaga, KLN ’24, United Kingdom, graduate study 
• Samhitha Balaji, CST ’24, United Kingdom, graduate study 
• Jason Cutmore, CLA PhD candidate in philosophy, Germany, research 
• Adrianna Licari, EDU ’24, Germany, English teaching assistantship 
• Madeline Shuron, BYR ’26, Germany, arts 
• Diana Tiburcio, ENG ’24, Germany, research  
• Sophia Calabrese, CLA ’24, Spain, English teaching assistantship 
• Chloe Sayeg, EDU ’24, Spain, English teaching assistantship 
• Angela Alquiros, EDU ’22, Mexico, English teaching assistantship
• Liam Szymanski, EDU '24, Tajikistan, English teaching assistantship

This year’s Fulbright alternates include the following students. 

• Lauren Wilson, TYL PhD candidate in art history, Greece research 
• Caroline George, CLA ’24, Finland graduate study 
• Maserai Bah, KLN ’19, U.K. graduate study 

The Fulbright competition is administered at Temple through Scholar Development and Fellowships Advising. Learn more about how Temple’s Scholar Development and Fellowships Advising helps students apply for Fulbright scholarships and other external awards. 

EDITOR'S NOTE: This story was updated on May 16 and July 23, 2024.