Temple University Rome Introduces Global Citizen Scholarship for Incoming Students
Temple University Rome has announced a new scholarship aimed at supporting students who demonstrate a strong commitment to global engagement and intercultural dialogue.
The DeNicola Family Foundation Global Citizen Award, unveiled this week, will provide two merit-based scholarships of $10,000 each to entry-year students enrolling at the university’s Rome campus. The one-time awards will help cover the cost of the first year of study and are open to applicants of all nationalities.
The initiative is designed to recognize students who show interest in global issues and who aspire to contribute to international cooperation, diplomacy and cross-cultural understanding.
“We are extremely grateful to the DeNicola Family Foundation for their generosity and for this opportunity,” said Emilia Zankina, dean of Temple University Rome and vice provost for global engagement at Temple University. “This award will enable more students to benefit from the transformative experience at Temple Rome.”
A Longstanding Connection
The scholarship reflects the long relationship between Temple University and Cosmo DeNicola, a member of the Temple University Rome Board of Visitors who co-founded the DeNicola Family Foundation with his wife Janet.
DeNicola’s connection to the university dates back decades. “I have a long relationship with Temple dating back to 1972,” he said. The son of Italian immigrants, he often describes his personal story through the phrase “an acre of diamonds,” a reference to the idea that opportunity can often be found close to home.
Through the foundation, DeNicola says he hopes to support students who want to engage with global challenges and cultural exchange. The foundation, he explained, focuses on values such as inclusion and what he calls “global goodness.”
Studying in Rome
For DeNicola, the Rome campus itself plays an important role in the experience offered to students.
“The location in the Eternal City and the arts, culture and history that surround the campus” make Temple Rome a unique place to study, he said.
Situated in the historic center of the city, the campus allows students to experience Rome as a living classroom shaped by centuries of artistic, political and cultural development.
How to Apply
Students applying for the scholarship must submit a 500-word essay addressing a global issue, a statement of purpose explaining their interest in the award and a curriculum vitae. Applications can be uploaded through the university’s official admissions website.
Recipients will be notified by email.
A Focus on Impact
DeNicola said he hopes the scholarship will have a lasting effect beyond the university itself.
Quoting Mother Teresa, he noted that “small gestures can have a huge impact.” The goal, he added, is to help students turn global awareness into meaningful action.
