Knight-Hennessy Scholars at Stanford University has announced its newest cohort of 90 exceptional scholars from 30 countries who will pursue degrees in 45 graduate degree programs across all seven of Stanford’s graduate schools. Among this year's cohort is Velin "Venny" Kojouharov, a standout Georgia Tech student from Mansfield, Texas, whose dedication to robotics, ecology, and sustainability has earned him recognition as a future leader in engineering and innovation. 

Inspiring Leaders

Knight-Hennessy Scholars is renowned for fostering a vibrant community of graduate students from around the world, empowering them to become visionary leaders equipped to address complex global issues. Candidates are evaluated using a set of three criteria: Independence of thought, purposeful leadership, and civic mindset. The 2024 cohort is the seventh since the fellowship’s founding and comprises individuals from various countries and fields of study, united by their shared commitment to making a meaningful impact on society. Through the King Global Leadership Program and generous financial support, scholars like Kojouharov receive the resources and opportunities to pursue their graduate studies at Stanford's prestigious schools. 

“With each new cohort of scholars I am even more encouraged about the future,” said John L. Hennessy, Stanford University president emeritus and the Shriram Family Director of Knight-Hennessy Scholars. “The challenges our world faces are only growing more complex, which validates the importance of our mission here.”

Innovating for a Sustainable Future

Venny Kojouharov is graduating from the Georgia Institute of Technology with a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering and a minor in computer science, a testament to his multidisciplinary approach to problem-solving. His passion lies at the intersection of robotics and ecology, where he aims to develop innovative solutions for disaster relief and environmental conservation. Throughout his undergraduate career, Kojouharov has conducted groundbreaking research in bio-inspired robotics at esteemed institutions such as Georgia Tech, Harvard University, and ETH Zurich, resulting in publications in esteemed journals including Science Robotics and the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences. 

Beyond his academic achievements, Kojouharov is committed to fostering the next generation of innovators through education and outreach. He has played an instrumental role in organizing outreach programs for Atlanta middle schools and the Atlanta Zoo, demonstrating his dedication to making STEM education accessible and engaging for all. As a recipient of prestigious scholarships and awards including the Stamps President's Scholarship, Goldwater Scholarship, Astronaut Scholarship, ThinkSwiss Research Scholarship, and 2024 Love Family Foundation Award, Kojouharov has been recognized for his exemplary academic achievements and leadership potential. 

Becoming a Change-Maker 

The Knight-Hennessy Scholars program continues to expand its global reach and impact, empowering future leaders to address the world's most pressing challenges with creativity, compassion, and collaboration. As the application process for the 2025 cohort approaches (applications open June 1, 2024, and are due October 9, 2024), prospective scholars are encouraged to explore the program's opportunities, attend an information session, and consider joining this dynamic community of change-makers. 

“Each scholar brings a unique perspective to our growing community,” said Tina Seelig, executive director of Knight-Hennessy Scholars. “It is inspiring to see them build ties and gain knowledge across disciplines, cultures, and ideologies, contributing to their ability to address the world’s biggest challenges.”

Georgia Tech students who are interested in applying for fellowships should visit the Office of Undergraduate Education Prestigious Fellowships website and reach out to Prestigious Fellowships Advising for more information.  

About Knight-Hennessy Scholars

Established in 2016, Knight-Hennessy Scholars is the largest fully endowed graduate fellowship in the world. Named in honor of Phil Knight, MBA '62, philanthropist and co-founder of Nike Inc., and John Hennessy, chairman of Alphabet Inc. and president of Stanford (2000-2016), the program is dedicated to developing visionary leaders who possess a strong multidisciplinary perspective and a commitment to driving positive change in the world. Through a transformative experience at Stanford University, Knight-Hennessy Scholars empowers scholars to become courageous, collaborative, and compassionate leaders equipped to tackle complex global challenges.