Testimonials 1

In the late ‘40s, Charles F. Noyes set up the foundation bearing his wife’s name to enable talented students to attend college and pursue careers in which they could improve the human condition. He made the decision then to allocate one-half of the scholarship to black students. The following testimonies are by a few of the many professionals – leading scientists, physicians, judges, oceanographers – who benefited from Jessie Smith Noyes Foundation scholarships. Today these talented men and women promote equitable justice, protect the oceans, advance public health, fight the spread of infectious disease and disseminate best practices in health care.

“I am writing to express my gratitude and appreciation for the opportunity I received through the [Jessie Smith Noyes] Foundation to attend Douglas College, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, N.J. Through that achievement, I was able to assist both my brother and sister in their goals to attend and graduate from college. [In 2003] I was elected to the Court of Common Pleas of Philadelphia County. I am now sitting in the Family Court. So, I thank you for your investment in my future, which is still delivering dividends.”

“Early in 1983 as a graduate student, I was finishing up my thesis and I needed funding to finish my work. Unfortunately in June of that year, I was in a serious motorcycle accident that left me paralyzed and in the hospital for 6 months. The Noyes Foundation put the fellowship on hold and kept the money saved, so that when I finally did return to my studies, the money was there so that I could proceed. I have been writing proposals, working with the government for many years and, looking back, that was incredibly enlightened thinking. The Noyes Foundation made a big difference. The open mindedness to keep the fellowship on hold while I recovered was very advanced thinking and made it possible for me to get my doctorate and go on to get a postdoctorate, and I have been at Woods Hole since.”