Press Releases

The Lighting Research Center (LRC) at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute has announced the recipient of the 2005 Lutron Scholarship. The funds are used to offset the cost of tuition for a graduate student in the LRC's Master of Science in lighting program who demonstrates outstanding academic performance and strong leadership abilities, as well as a commitment to research in advanced lighting technologies or lighting controls.

The scholarship is generously supported by a $20,000 grant from Lutron Electronics Co., Inc and has been awarded annually since 1996.

"Lutron has demonstrated a strong commitment to leadership development within the lighting industry, and the Lighting Research Center is pleased to work with Lutron to help cultivate future industry leaders," said Mark Rea, Ph.D., LRC director.

This year's scholarship recipient is Kenneth Appleman of Green Island, New York, a second year student in the program. His research will merge lighting automation technology with the study of light and health, developing advanced methods for applying light that are effective to the body's circadian system. Applications for Appleman's research include treatments for sleep disorders and seasonal affective disorder (SAD).

"I am honored to have been selected from such a strong group of candidates," said Appleman.

He describes himself as an inventor with a fascination with lighting innovation, and he hopes to one day develop a company that stems from his work at the Lighting Research Center.

Appleman was one the key architects of the Prodigy Internet service and founding chief technology officer of About.com. He earned a master's degree in computer science from Pace University and a bachelor's degree in English from the University at Albany, State University of New York.

About Lutron Electronics Co., Inc.

Lutron, headquartered in Coopersburg, Pennsylvania, is the world's leading designer and manufacturer of lighting controls, architectural lighting control systems and shading solutions for residential, commercial and institutional applications.