President Obama spotlighted Temple’s Project Shine, which helps older immigrants adapt to their new culture, when he awarded the Citizens Medal to its Director, Patience Lehrman. Byak Lien Tong is one of thousands of refugees that Project Shine has helped, using Temple students to provide not just English lessons but connections to the community. “So many, coming with nothing but hope and faith in their hearts that America is a place where if they work hard and put their talents to the test, they can earn a better life,” said Lehrman.