SCIS Student awarded 2023 R. Gene Richter Scholarship

Garrett Callenberger, a supply chain and information systems junior, has been selected as one of six 2023 R. Gene Richter Scholarship recipients. Supported by the R. Gene and Nancy Richter Foundation, the scholarship is offered to students enrolled in an accredited supply chain management program and offers tuition assistance, mentoring, and networking opportunities.

Callenberger discovered the prominent scholarship program through Dr. Bob Novack, Associate Professor in Supply Chain and Information Systems and CSCR Director of Student Research and Student Outreach.

“The program’s prestige and notability in the supply chain industry interested me and I decided to apply because of the opportunity it provides to expand your professional network with all of the previous scholars as well as countless industry professionals,” said Callenberger.

The foundation and the award, established in 2004, are named after the late R. Gene Richter. To date, the scholarship has grown into the largest national scholarship program in the field of supply chain and has been awarded to over 130 students from 25 different universities across the country.

The program aims to fund students’ final year of college, with eligible recipients graduating in December 2023 or May 2024. Tuition assistance in the amount of $5,000 is available to the winter graduates, whereas the spring graduates receive $10,000 in scholarship funding.

“The scholarship will provide me with opportunities for supplemental experiences beyond what’s in the classroom,” shared Callenberger. “It’ll also provide the opportunity for a very positive first step into my career.”

Callenberger notes that the Smeal College of Business and the supply chain department were foundational to his success in building a professional network, providing challenges within the classroom, and highlighting pathways to pursue his passions. “The faculty and staff in the SCIS Department and Center for Supply Chain Research display their commitment to student success by providing the tools necessary to excel; they are incomparable,” he stated.

Callenberger’s networking skills will be put to good use with the Richter Scholarship, given a large component of the scholarship involves mentorship. Richter Scholars are paired with an Executive Mentor who is a leader in the field of supply chain management and a Junior Mentor, who was a previous recipient of the award.

“I’m most looking forward to getting to know both of my executive and junior mentors. The mentorship program that accompanies this scholarship not only allows for the traditional benefits of a professional mentor, but it can also aid in your personal network. In this, I hope to simply learn about other’s experiences, gain new perspectives, and build mutually beneficial relationships, professionally and personally,” said Callenberger.

The winners are celebrated at the ISM World Annual Conference at an exclusive dinner and recognized at the ISM Awards Gala.

Callenberger hopes to capitalize on the many benefits of the Richter Scholarship during his final year at Penn State. Upon graduation next spring, Callenberger plans to start his career in a rotational program and continue his journey as a lifelong learner.