Allison Boyd, a first-generation college student in the Polytechnic Institute majoring in aerospace engineering technology, has received the highly prestigious Truman Scholarship. The Truman Scholarship is defined as the premier graduate fellowship program for students pursuing careers in public service leadership. They are chosen based on their demonstration of leadership, academic excellence, and commitment to public service. Boyd plans to use the Truman Scholarship to pursue multiple grad school degrees in computational analysis and public policy.
Upon becoming Truman Scholars, students join a diverse network of leaders in public service across the world. Previous recipients include Secretary of Homeland Security Janet Napolitano, Supreme Court Associate Justice Neil Gorsuch and former National Security advisor Susan Rice.
Boyd’s impact at Purdue and aspirations beyond graduation
As a former Lockheed Martin and NASA intern, Boyd’s accomplishments stand tall. Her portfolio of research projects is equally impressive, notably including a New Technology Report (NTR) published through the NASA space program.
Don Barnes, clinical assistant professor in the Polytechnic Institute, said Boyd’s experiences in professional industries are noteworthy.
“Allison’s dedication to aviation is exemplified by her continuous pursuit of knowledge and interest in advancing technology in her field. I believe her creativity, intellectual drive and commitment to community will pave new accessible paths in the aviation industry.”
In addition to her professional work, Boyd is a deeply involved member of the Purdue community, holding positions in multiple organizations including her role as the director of activities for Purdue Aviation Day. In her efforts to bring students from lower-income households and those historically underrepresented in aviation, for Purdue Aviation Day she is spearheading a new scholarship program, bringing in prominent and diverse speakers and the FAA to recruit for jobs. Boyd is 100% behind supporting her peers.
“We're a very close-knit community out here, particularly in polytech, which I love,” Boyd remarks. “The hands-on opportunities and small class sizes help me learn applicable skills to take into the aerospace industry.”
She aspires to high-level roles in aerospace, “because I think working in public service to improve regulations and policies is ultimately what’s going to help make the aerospace industry better,” says Boyd. “We can encourage so many more people to go into aviation and aerospace — hopefully, we'll see those positive changes over time.”
National and International Scholarships Office
The National and International Scholarships Office (NISO) is housed in the John Martinson Honors College and coordinates the process of applying for scholarships and grants that require a university nomination. Purdue students applying for prestigious awards (including the Truman Scholarship) receive support and guidance through this office.
“I cannot speak more highly of NISO and its leadership – I don't think I'd be where I am today without their advice and guidance. Even before receiving the scholarship, I felt like I had already won since the process helped me in defining my grad school path and gave me a better idea of what I wanted to accomplish with my career,” says Boyd.
Earning a scholarship can change the trajectory of a Purdue student's academic and professional career. The resources provided by NISO continue to enable Purdue students to apply themselves in environments where they can develop into the best versions of themselves.
To learn more about the other 2024 Truman Scholars, visit the 2024 Truman Scholars page.
Owen Hughes
Student Communication Assistant for Teaching and Learning, hughe357@purdue.edu