Charles W. Davidson College of Engineering · Established March 2026 · Tower Foundation of SJSU
The Pham Foundation Scholarship is a current-use fund established to support undergraduate students pursuing engineering degrees within the Charles W. Davidson College of Engineering at San José State University. Established on March 15, 2026, the scholarship marks the retirement of the Foundation Founder from San José State University—an institution that served as both alma mater and professional home for over three decades.
The Foundation Founder began as a student assistant in the College of Engineering, later serving as a web designer after graduation, and eventually as a Systems Administrator until retirement. This long-standing journey reflects a deep and continuous connection to the University and its mission.
This scholarship is established in gratitude to honor that journey and to invest in the next generation of engineering students. It represents both a meaningful milestone and the Foundation’s commitment to supporting students who demonstrate dedication, discipline, and potential in the field of engineering.
Eligibility Requirements
All funding decisions are made in compliance with applicable university policies and federal and state nondiscrimination laws. Selection is based on individual qualifications and contributions.
The fund is established and managed under the policies of the Board of Directors of the Tower Foundation and all policies of San José State University.
This program is governed by the Pham Foundation's Restated Bylaws and an executed Gift Agreement on file with the Foundation. See Governance for the full framework.
Management of funds and acceptance of agreement terms are the sole responsibility of the Board of Directors of the Tower Foundation. In the event circumstances prevent use of the gift as originally intended, it shall be the responsibility of the Board of Directors and the Dean of the Davidson College of Engineering to apply the gift to the purpose which most nearly meets the Foundation's original intention. This Gift Agreement is governed by the laws of the State of California.
The Pham Foundation has committed $25,000 in the form of a five-year pledge to the Tower Foundation of San José State University.
| Payment | Due Date | Amount | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| Year 1 | On or before June 30, 2026 | $5,000 | Funded |
| Year 2 | On or before June 30, 2027 | $5,000 | Scheduled |
| Year 3 | On or before June 30, 2028 | $5,000 | Scheduled |
| Year 4 | On or before June 30, 2029 | $5,000 | Scheduled |
| Year 5 | On or before June 30, 2030 | $5,000 | Scheduled |
| Total Pledge Commitment | $25,000 | ||
Additional contributions to this fund may be made at any time.
A record of Pham Foundation Scholarship recipients at San José State University.
On the Foundation's motivation to establish this scholarship.
The Pham Foundation Scholarship is intended as a simple helping hand to students who have demonstrated strong commitment to their engineering studies.
Engineering requires discipline, persistence, and a willingness to solve difficult problems. Through this scholarship, the Foundation hopes to recognize those efforts and help reduce some of the financial pressure that students often face while pursuing their education.
It is our hope that this support allows recipients to focus on their studies and continue building the skills needed to contribute to the engineering profession and the communities they will serve in the future.
Congratulations on your achievement and best wishes for your continued success.