The S. Reid Warren, Jr. Award

Dr. Alejandro Ribeiro, assistant professor in the department of electrical and systems engineering, has been awarded the S. Reid Warren, Jr. Award, which is presented annually by the undergraduate student body and the Engineering Alumni Society in recognition of outstanding service in stimulating and guiding the intellectual and professional development of undergraduate students. Dr. Ribeiro received MSc and PhD degrees in electrical and computer engineering from the University of Minnesota in 2005 and 2007, respectively, and earned his BSc degree in electrical engineering from the Universidad de la Republica in Uruguay in 1998.

One student stated, “In my four years, I have not met a more motivated professor who strives to make the classroom an engaging experience. Dr. Ribeiro shows outstanding concern for the academic development of every student.”

Ford Motor Company Award for Faculty Advising

Dr. Jan Van der Spiegel, professor in the department of electrical and systems engineering and associate dean for education, has been awarded the Ford Motor Company Award for Faculty Advising. The award recognizes his dedication to helping students realize their educational, career and personal goals. Dr. Van der Spiegel earned a PhD in electrical engineering in 1979, a ME in electro-mechanics in 1974, and an undergraduate degree in engineering in 1971, all from the University of Leuven in Belgium.

One student noted, “Dr. Van der Spiegel really knows the curriculum and is the embodiment of a true scholar. He wants to help students learn all they can, to the best of their abilities.”

Hatfield Award for Excellence in Teaching in the Lecturer and Practice Professor Track

The Hatfield Award for Excellence in Teaching in the Lecturer and Practice Professor Track has been awarded to Jonathan Fiene, senior lecturer and director of laboratory programs in the department of mechanical engineering and applied mechanics.  Dr. Fiene received his BS in mechanical engineering from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas in 2001 and his master’s and PhD degrees in mechanical engineering from Stanford University in 2003 and 2007, respectively.

A student wrote that, “Dr. Fiene’s presentation is intuitive, clear and interesting, and his unconventional assignment descriptions go straight to the essence of learning, focusing on real and meaningful features. He simultaneously guides and challenges his students in a way that makes his classes monumentally satisfying and exhilarating.”