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Future Scholars of America is a program of the Jerome J. Lohr College of Engineering. Created in fiscal year 2025, it is intended to enhance the experience of doctoral students who are aiming for a career in academia.

“This program is designed to cultivate the next generation of full scholars, individuals who are equally prepared to advance research frontiers and contribute meaningfully to undergraduate education,” according to Rajesh Kavasseri, associate dean for research in the college. 

In fiscal year 2025, there were 13 participants with the college contributing $118,000 in funding to the program. In fiscal year 2026, the numbers grew to 17 participants and $149,000. The July-June fiscal year roughly coincides with the August to May school year.

The program’s statement proclaims, “At its core, Future Scholars of America recognizes that doctoral training must do more than produce research outputs. It must purposefully develop scholars who can create new knowledge, better disseminate existing knowledge (i.e. teach effectively) and engage the broader academic and civic community. 

“The program provides structured support to help graduate students build both their capabilities as researchers and their capacity as instructors, while also exposing them to professional development and outreach opportunities that prepare them for a variety of academic careers.”

Kavasseri said the program’s takeaway statement succinctly summarizes its purpose:

“Future Scholars of America is an investment in scholarly completeness. It formalizes the concept that the future of higher education depends on scholars who can discover, teach and engage with equal intention. Future Scholars of America ensures that doctoral education produces not just specialists, but scholars prepared to lead in research-intensive, student-centered academic environments.