The Illuminating Engineering Society Philadelphia Section (IES-PHL) recognized four outstanding students during its annual Philaments Awards Dinner, held this year at Philadelphia’s historic Franklin Institute.

Founded in honor of Benjamin Franklin, the Franklin Institute is one of the nation’s oldest and most respected science museums, continuing its mission of inspiring curiosity and advancing science education through interactive exhibits and innovative programming.

Each year, the IES Philadelphia Lighting Education Scholarships support students pursuing careers in architectural lighting, interior design lighting, industrial design, landscape lighting, and theatrical lighting. The merit-based, single-year scholarships recognize students who demonstrate academic excellence and the potential to become future contributors to the lighting industry. As part of the application process, candidates are asked to reflect on how they plan to give back to the lighting community throughout their careers.

This year’s two $5,000 scholarship recipients are:

Ava Orobello-Stretch, a student in Drexel University’s Bachelor of Architecture program.

Jessica-Foster Nwaigbo, a student in Thomas Jefferson University’s Ph.D. in Architecture and Design Research program.

The section also presented two Honorable Mention Awards. Each recipient received a $500 scholarship, a complimentary one-year student membership to the Illuminating Engineering Society, and a one-year subscription to the IES Library.

This year’s Honorable Mention recipients are:

• Christopher Cavender, Thomas Jefferson University’s Industrial Design program.
• Sarah Filler, Thomas Jefferson University’s Interior Design program.

Through its annual scholarship program, IES Philadelphia continues to invest in the next generation of lighting professionals by recognizing students whose academic achievements and commitment to the industry position them for future success.

Cover Image: Honorable Mention Recipients