Joey Denison

Major: Mechanical Engineering, with a concurrent master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering
Minor: Language and Literature
Hometown: Nashville, Indiana

For Joey Denison, Rose-Hulman and the Noblitt Scholars program are all about building pathways and breaking down barriers - literally.

During the summer after his first year at Rose, Denison started his own construction company doing residential exterior carpentry projects such as decks, fences, and shelter houses.

"This was a passion project of mine because I love using my skills as a problem solver and creator to help people," Denison said. During the school year, Denison is still able to pursue that passion with The Will Center, a Terre Haute nonprofit that seeks to empower people with disabilities to utilize community resources for their independence.

"I've helped put together and lead groups of volunteers to build ramps and other accessibility solutions for community members who couldn't otherwise afford them," he said.

Denison also strives to break down barriers for other Rose-Hulman students, serving as a Sophomore Adviser and as the president of Make It Happen. He is also involved in the Alpha Phi Omega Service fraternity and the Lilly Scholars Network. 

"The Noblitt Scholars program has been very good at connecting me with resources that I need to succeed and breaking down barriers for me to become a more successful leader," he said. "I've received funding to attend leadership development conferences, as well as been connected with other like-minded scholars and advisors to pursue service opportunities." 

"The Noblitt Scholars has given me access to many exceptional mentors that have guided me through tough situations and have given me the resources that I have needed to reach success on my own," he added.

Denison is building his own path to success, empowering others to follow in his footsteps.