USD Student Lila Fowler Becomes University’s First Marshall Scholar

The University of San Diego is celebrating a historic achievement as fourth-year student Lila Fowler has been named a 2026 Marshall Scholar. This highly prestigious award, which fully funds up to three years of graduate study in the United Kingdom, marks the first time a USD student has received the honor since the scholarship’s inception in 1953.

Fowler's selection places her among a small, elite cohort of scholars chosen this year from an applicant pool of more than 1,000 candidates representing top institutions nationwide. Only 43 scholarships were awarded this cycle.

Fowler studies mathematics and physics in the College of Arts and Sciences and is part of the Honors Program at USD. She is interested in mathematical modeling, and her research centers on mathematical and computational tools to balance speed and accuracy in physical simulations.

"I am profoundly grateful to my professors at USD, who have engaged my curiosity, held me to the highest standards, and championed my every goal," Fowler said. "In particular, the support of my mentors Drs. Kishimoto and Pruski, and professors Drs. Boocher and Shulman, has been invaluable in opening my horizons with opportunities like the Marshall Scholarship."

The Marshall Scholarship will fully fund Fowler’s two years of graduate study at the University of Cambridge in the United Kingdom. At Cambridge, Fowler plans to pursue a taught MPhil (master of philosophy) in scientific computing, followed by a research MPhil in physics.

“Lila Fowler’s selection as our first Marshall Scholar is a truly historic and defining moment for the University of San Diego,” said James T. Harris III, DEd, president of USD. “Her incredible academic drive is exactly what this prestigious scholarship seeks to recognize. Lila embodies the best of USD, and we are proud that her dedication to science, math, and research will be supported by this great opportunity at the University of Cambridge.”

The Marshall Scholarship was established by the British Parliament as an expression of gratitude for American aid after World War II, specifically honoring former U.S. Secretary of State George C. Marshall. More than 2,300 Americans have received advanced UK degrees through the program since its inaugural class more than 70 years ago.

This is not the first national honor for the rising researcher. Fowler was also named a 2024 Goldwater Scholar, which supports students with outstanding academic records, demonstrated research experience, and commitment and potential to make a significant contribution to the fields of mathematics, natural sciences and engineering.