F William Stephenson Excellence Scholarship

Overview

Description

This F William Stephenson Excellence Scholarship is provided by Professor Bill Stephenson BSc (Dunelm), PhD (Newcastle), DSc (Newcastle).

A native of North Tyneside, Bill Stephenson graduated in 1963 and emigrated to the US in 1978 on taking up a teaching appointment at Virginia Tech University, where he rose to become Dean of the College of Engineering and a Distinguished Professor of Electrical and Computer Engineering.

Bill comments on his upbringing, 'I was an only child from a very supportive, but relatively poor family living in a home with gas lighting and outdoor facilities. It is strange that I should study Electrical Engineering without ever having encountered its benefits in everyday domestic life.' 

Bill takes a keen interest in Newcastle matters, especially relating to his beloved Newcastle United. 'Unfortunately, following Newcastle often leads to very stressful Saturdays,' he says.

'King's College and Newcastle University transformed my life and gave me opportunities I never dreamed possible. The University has had a very special place in my heart for over 50 years. Without scholarships, I could not have afforded a university education without extreme financial sacrifice. By creating this scholarship, I hope to help foster excellence by contributing in some small way to the future success of a talented individual.'

Benefits

US-based graduate F William 'Bill' Stephenson has donated to Electrical and Electronic Engineering to allow the School of Engineering to offer a scholarship of £3,000 each year to the top student entering the University to begin their Stage 1 studies.