IRG 2025 Scholarship Winners
We are excited to present our 2025 Scholarship winners!
Thanks to Baen Books for sponsoring the Tim Bolgeo Memorial Scholarship, for our Undergraduate Scholarship, and Robert and Ruann Hampson for sponsoring our PhD and Masters Scholarships.
The IRG is honored to award three merit-based scholarships to outstanding students pursuing degrees in fields that advance the dream of interstellar exploration. These awards recognize students who exemplify academic excellence, scientific curiosity, and commitment to expanding humanity’s reach into the cosmos.
Priya Devi
Tim Bolgeo Memorial Scholarship Winner
Name: Sanmathi Priya Abiram Lakshmi Devi
University: Cornell University
Degree Program: Mechanical – Aerospace Engineering, BS
“It was my first visit to NASA at the age of seven when my dad said, ‘Rockets are the hardest thing man has ever built, and it is even harder to fly in one.’ That day sparked an idea I have never lost track of—an idea that strengthened the purpose of my life.
I am an aspiring Mars walker and aerospace entrepreneur, committed to pushing the boundaries of human knowledge and exploration. My background, shaped by tradition, resilience, and exploration, has prepared me to embrace the challenges ahead and contribute to the next frontier of human exploration.”
-Priya Devi
Congratulations from the team at IRG!
Michael P. Wozniak
Master’s Scholarship Winner
Name: Michael P. Wozniak
University: Purdue University
Degree Program: Aeronautical & Astronautical Engineering
“My adventures in the world of aerospace began with becoming a private pilot, subsequently serving in Army Aviation and following in my father’s and grandfather’s footsteps through military service. However, as I appreciated the incredible advancements in the world of flight ever since the Wright brothers’ first successful flight in Kitty Hawk, I started to realize that interstellar spaceflight is another exciting chapter in the world of flying. As Jerry Ross once said, ‘we humans weren’t born to fly, but that doesn’t mean we weren’t meant to fly’.”
– Michael P. Wozniac
Congratulations Michael!
Pranavkumar D. Gajjar
Ph.D Scholarship Winner
Name: Pranavkumar D. Gajjar
University: Florida A&M University
Degree Program: Environmental Science
Dissertation Title: Identify physiological aspects of molecular mechanisms underlying salt resistance in grapevine rootstocks
“My career aspiration is to be a visionary leader within environmental science, particularly in the fields of biotechnology and sustainable agriculture. Guided by the vision of streets that do not need streetlights because trees themselves will light up our world, I am called to be an innovator for pressing global concerns on climate change, food security, and renewable energy. I try with my capabilities to develop technologies that will enable our ecosystems to not only thrive but also to make life on Earth better.”
– Pranavkumar D. Gajar
Congratulations Pranavkumar!