Stories of Impact
Stories of Impact is a video series that highlights the people, research, and real-world outcomes made possible through the support of The Becky Valentine Foundation. Through firsthand conversations with students, fellows, and researchers, the series explores how access to education and resources fuels innovation, environmental stewardship, and lasting change. Each episode offers a closer look at the individuals behind the work and the impact that thoughtful philanthropy can create.
Eliana is a Mechanical Engineering major at Kettering University whose passion for HVAC engineering began long before college. Inspired by her father, a car enthusiast and HVAC repairman for 40 years, she discovered Kettering through a high school college prep program and knew it was the right fit. Today, she’s gaining hands-on experience through her co-op at Goyette Mechanical, focusing on HVAC engineering and building a strong foundation for her career. Coming from an under-resourced community, the cost of attending a top engineering school once felt out of reach. Thanks to the Becky Valentine Scholarship, Eliana was able to pursue her passion, step confidently into STEM, and begin shaping a future where she hopes to give back and support students from similar backgrounds.
James is a Valentine Fellow and Ph.D. candidate at the University of Miami’s Rosenstiel School of Marine, Atmospheric and Earth Sciences. His research focuses on how primary pollutants transform into secondary pollutants, impacting air quality and climate. He recently conducted a 6-week field study in Salt Lake City, focusing on understanding the sources of fine particulate matter and how pollution events evolve—vital work which with help policymakers prioritize mitigation efforts. The Valentine Fellowship covered a year of his Ph.D. expenses, which enabled more scientific work and investment in the future of environmental science. James emphasizes the importance of understanding the “why” behind scientific concepts when mentoring students and remains hopeful for a future with cleaner air.
These Stories of Impact highlight just a handful of the lives and projects touched by our grants. Much of our impact happens quietly—through sustained support for education, research, and opportunity that shapes the future over time. With your involvement, we can continue building a legacy of meaningful, long-term impact.