Scholarships totaling over $880K awarded to ECE students

The University of Wisconsin–Madison Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering (ECE) recently celebrated nearly 200 outstanding and high-achieving students during the annual undergraduate scholarship reception. This event honored 191 exceptional students who received a total of 237 scholarships, collectively amounting to an impressive $885,675. The scholarships were funded by both the ECE department and the College of Engineering from generous alumni and partners. This financial commitment reflects the strong support for student success and academic excellence across the entire engineering program.

Department Chair Susan Hagness addressed the scholarship recipients, emphasizing the impact that these scholarships have on students’ lives, “I encourage you to think of your scholarship award as not just a financial gift but also as a vote of confidence, a sign of encouragement, a gentle push forward.  These awards come from people who want you to succeed.  Their gifts are a testament to the strong ECE Badger network that supports you now and in the years ahead.”

Joshika Nachiappan, a junior majoring in electrical engineering and a scholarship recipient, gave a student’s perspective on being an awardee. She shared how receiving scholarship support encourages her, “Every day, I feel more motivated to wake up with purpose, to learn as much as I can, and to make the most of each opportunity, all with the hope of giving back to society one day. I believe that education is the foundation for building a better future—not only for myself but also for those around me. The continued support from my beneficiaries has reinforced my commitment to creating a positive future for my community and to transforming those problems into opportunities.” Nachiappan received a Teresa Louise Strickland Scholarship as well as an Earnest W. Reynolds Scholarship.

Junior Xinyue Chen who is studying electrical engineering and data science reflected on the event, “I’m incredibly honored to have been part of this event and to receive this scholarship. It was a wonderful experience to connect with others who share my passion and to be inspired by the many talented individuals I met. This opportunity motivates me to continue pursuing my goals with even more determination and enthusiasm.” Chen received an Earnest W. Reynolds Scholarship.

The reception served as a reminder of the department’s dedication to fostering a supportive and enriching environment for students. Scholarships are a testament to the belief in the potential of the next generation of Badger engineers, encouraging students to aim high and pursue their passions within the ever-evolving fields of electrical and computer engineering. With the continued support of the department and the College of Engineering by alumni and other partners, these students are well-positioned to make meaningful contributions to the world as innovators and leaders.

Interested in contributing to scholarships with in the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering? Please reach out to Development Director Valerie Chesnik, valerie.chesnik@supportuw.org.

Photo at top of page: Alison Thompson, Julia Gibson, Tessa Campbell

Images by Todd Brown UW-Madison School of Medicine and Public Health – Media Solutions