Penn Engineering Launches Michael and Jennifer Ternoey Glassman Penn Scholars Program

Penn Engineering will establish the Michael and Jennifer Ternoey Glassman Penn Scholars (GPS) program, a pre-college initiative for academically gifted rising high-school seniors in the School District of Philadelphia interested in science, technology and mathematics (STEM).

Jennifer Ternoey Glassman (W’92), and Michael A. Glassman (CHE’85), a member of Penn Engineering’s Technical Advisory Board.

The program, part of Inveniam Outreach, which provides local K-12 youth with high-quality STEM training and enrichment opportunities, is made possible through a gift from Michael A. Glassman (CHE’85), a member of Penn Engineering’s Technical Advisory Board, and Jennifer Ternoey Glassman (W’92). “We believe in the potential of Philadelphia’s students,” they say. “By providing advanced STEM preparation, we hope to open doors for young people who have the talent and drive to excel in science and engineering.”

Participants will experience a rigorous curriculum designed by Penn Engineering faculty and veteran high-school STEM educators, featuring advanced instruction in math, physics, artificial intelligence and computer science. Administered by the Cora Ingrum Center (CIC) for Community Engagement and Outreach, the program will welcome its inaugural cohort this summer.

“This generous gift will enable Penn Engineering to provide talented Philadelphia students with the academic foundation, mentorship and confidence they need to succeed in STEM,” says Vijay Kumar, Nemirovsky Family Dean. “By investing in these students before they start college, Penn Engineering is empowering them to see themselves as future engineers.”

Participants will experience a rigorous curriculum designed by Penn Engineering faculty and veteran high-school STEM educators.

“Strong preparation in math, science and AI can change the course of a young person’s life,” adds Robert Ghrist, Andrea Mitchell University Professor and Associate Dean for Undergraduate Education. “We are deeply grateful for the Glassmans’ partnership.”

In addition to advanced STEM education, the program will offer a robust support system to guide students through post-secondary school decision-making, including resume building, leadership development and the college application process.

“Programs like this change what students believe is possible for themselves,” says Chanda Jefferson, Penn Engineering’s Director of Community Engagement and Outreach. “By giving Philadelphia students access to rigorous STEM instruction and a supportive academic community, we’re helping them build the skills and confidence needed to thrive in the next stage of their education.”

To learn more about the Glassman STEM Scholars, please visit the program’s webpage.

The application for the first cohort closes March 31, 2026.