Physics Department Receives $75,000 Estate Gift to Establish Endowed Scholarship Honoring Dale and Jenny Shellhorn

The Department of Physics is proud to announce the establishment of a new endowed scholarship, made possible by a generous $75,000 estate gift from the late Dale Shellhorn and his first wife, Jenny Shellhorn. This enduring legacy will support graduate students in physics for generations to come.
 

Dale Shellhorn, who earned his Master of Science in Physics from the University of Arizona, passed away on October 31, 2024. Jenny Shellhorn preceded him in death in 2010. Their estate plan to fund this endowment was documented as early as 2005, reflecting their long-standing commitment to education and the sciences. In recognition of his achievements and contributions, Dale was honored as the College of Science Alumnus of the Year in 2018. His career included notable work in aerospace and defense. His iconic "first earthrise" photograph was cited in this feature article on Apollo 11.

The department has designated the annual interest from the endowment to fund graduate scholarships. These scholarships will be awarded to recipients of the Department’s three major graduate honors: the Graduate Service Award, the Graduate Teaching Award, and the Graduate Scholarship Award.

This gift not only celebrates the lives and legacy of Dale and Jenny Shellhorn but also strengthens the department’s mission to support and recognize outstanding graduate students in physics.