Drew SchiltzWinona State University Alumnus Drew Schiltz ’12, of Winona, has been awarded the National Science Foundation (NSF) Graduate Fellowship.

Schiltz, who majored in composite engineering and physics at WSU, is pursuing graduate studies in electrical engineering at Colorado State University and conduct research in the area of photonics materials.

“I have always been fascinated with the nature of light and its interaction with matter,” said Schiltz, “and feel my undergraduate degrees at Winona State University have truly prepared me with a broad knowledge base to carry over into this field.”

The National Science Foundation Graduate Research Foundation (GRFP) aims to “ensure the vitality and diversity of the scientific and engineering workforce in the United States.” The program recognizes and supports outstanding graduate students who are pursuing research-based master’s and doctoral degrees.

The GRFP is recognized as one of the most competitive and prestigious fellowships in the United States. Recipients are selected based on intellectual merit and also the broader impacts of their research and activities. Out of roughly 12,000 annual applicants, only 2,000 are offered awards.

“I am fortunate and extremely grateful to be offered an award in my first year applying to the NSF GRFP and would like to thank all those at Winona State University who have helped me get to this point in my research career,” said Schiltz.

For more information, call the WSU Communications Office at 507-457-5024.