Advancing the Future of Medical Engineering in Honor of Dr. Richard J. Connolly
Established by professors, colleagues, and friends in the USF Department of Medical Engineering, this endowed scholarship honors a scholar, researcher, and innovator whose work reflected intellectual rigor, entrepreneurial spirit, and a deep commitment to improving human health.
Honoring His Journey
Richard J. Connolly was a proud three-time graduate of the University of South Florida, earning his BS in Chemical Engineering in 2005, his MS in Biomedical Engineering in 2007, and his PhD in Biomedical Engineering in 2010, graduating magna cum laude.
Celebrating His Work
His career included roles at AnalAtom, OncoSec, Fred Hutch Cancer Center, and Pulse BioSciences, where he served as Director of Biomedical Research and helped translate advanced engineering concepts into clinically relevant medical products.
Extending His Legacy
This endowed scholarship supports biomedical engineering students who reflect the same qualities that defined Richard’s life: intellectual excellence, practical innovation, collaboration, and a desire to improve patient care through engineering.
“This scholarship is a meaningful way to honor Dr. Connolly’s life and contributions while investing in the future of medical engineering at USF.”
Supporting Students Who Build Clinically Relevant Solutions
The Dr. Richard J. Connolly Memorial Endowed Scholarship Fund is awarded to a biomedical engineering student at USF who demonstrates the same qualities that defined Richard’s career: intellectual excellence, a drive to develop clinically relevant solutions, and an entrepreneurial spirit aimed at translating ideas into meaningful medical advancements.
Tragically, Richard passed away suddenly on November 1, 2021. This endowed scholarship ensures that his passion for education, innovation, and mentorship lives on.
Each gift strengthens the fund in perpetuity, helping it grow toward its long-term goal of $100,000 so future awards can have an even greater impact on students pursuing careers in medical innovation, translational research, and patient-focused discovery.
- Intellectual Excellence Supporting students with the academic strength and curiosity to advance the field.
- Innovation With Purpose Investing in scholars who develop practical solutions with real clinical relevance.
- Mentorship and Community Carrying forward Richard’s collaborative spirit and commitment to helping others grow.
Every Gift Helps Continue Dr. Connolly’s Legacy
With your gift of any size, you are continuing the impact Dr. Richard Connolly made within the Department of Medical Engineering at USF by supporting current and future students who share his passion for innovation and service. Each contribution helps sustain this fund in perpetuity and support biomedical engineering students as they pursue careers in research, innovation, and patient-focused solutions.
Meaningful Recognition
Honor Dr. Connolly’s life and contributions while investing in the future of medical engineering at USF.
Share the Campaign
Please consider sharing your support of this scholarship campaign using the social media tools at the top of the page.
Lasting Opportunity
Increase the annual scholarship awarded to deserving students as the endowment grows.
Faculty and Staff Giving
USF faculty and staff may give online through this site or by completing a payroll deduction form using the designated fund number and fund name.
Make a Gift to the Dr. Richard J. Connolly Memorial Endowed Scholarship Fund
Your contribution helps ensure that Dr. Connolly’s passion for education, innovation, and service continues to shape the future of biomedical engineering at USF.
Support the Scholarship Fund