Mengistu selected as a Fulbright Scholar

May 10, 2023

ASHLAND, Ky. – Ashland Community and Technical College professor of biology, Dr. Aschalew Mengistu, was recently selected as a Fulbright U.S. Scholar for 2023-2024 for Ethiopia. 

While in Ethiopia, Mengistu will be conducting research on enteroviruses, a group of viruses causing several mild infectious illnesses and can cause serious illnesses if infecting the central nervous system. 

According to their website, the Fulbright U.S. Scholar Program offers over 400 awards in more than 135 countries for U.S. citizens to teach, conduct research and carry out professional projects around the world.  

The Fulbright Program was established by Congress in 1946 with the goal of increasing mutual understanding and support friendly and peaceful relations between the people of the United States and the people of other countries.   

“ACTC is so proud of Dr. Mengistu’s selection as a Fulbright Scholar,” said Dr. Larry Ferguson, ACTC President/CEO. “He epitomizes world-class instruction, and we are grateful he is being recognized.”

Mengistu joined the ACTC faculty in August 2007 and will be celebrating his 16th work anniversary this year.

He earned his Ph. D in Medical Microbiology from the University of Wales College of Medicine in Great Britain in 2002. He also completed a postdoctoral fellowship at Johns Hopkins University upon completion of his Ph. D. 

A reception celebrating Mengistu’s selection into the program was held on Monday.