Donna L. Whitney established the Thomas M. Whitney Professorship in Electrical and Computer Engineering in 1999, in memory of her late husband. The professorship supports retention and recruitment of a faculty member who provides leadership in developing ECpE academic and research programs, promotes communication and interaction with industry and the academia, and maintains high standards of excellence for building an innovative academic and research program.
Thomas (BSEE ’61; MSEE ’62; PhDEE ’64) joined Hewlett-Packard in 1967, where he helped develop the world’s first hand-held scientific calculator. In 1978, he became executive vice president of engineering for Apple Computer, and in 1981 he became a venture capitalist. He has received Iowa State’s Outstanding Young Alumnus Award (1973) and the College of Engineering’s Professional Achievement Citation in Engineering (1982). He passed away in 1986 at age 47.
Donna also has provided support for the Engineering Teaching Research Complex, student scholarships, and faculty development opportunities. She is a member of the ISU Foundation’s Board of Governors and has served on the ISU Foundation’s Board of Directors.
PROFESSORSHIP RECIPIENTS:
- Venkataramana Ajjarapu (2020-present)
- Vikram Dalal (2002-2020)
- Satish Udpa (2001-2002)