On December 12, ������Ƶ celebrated the outstanding achievements of its faculty and staff at the 2024 Celebration of Excellence. The event recognized individuals who exemplify the University’s core values of respect, integrity, creativity, collaboration, and excellence.

“Living our values isn’t evident in just one person or one department — it is in all of us,” said Dr. Robert K. McMahan, President of ������Ƶ. “Today, we celebrate and honor the collective contributions of our faculty and staff who work tirelessly — and without fanfare.” 

Charles F. Kettering III Bulldog Award

Named in honor of Charles F. Kettering III, grandson of the University’s founder, the Bulldog Award recognizes employees who go above and beyond in their roles. Recipients demonstrate tenacity, resilience, and a commitment to the University’s mission, embodying the determined spirit of Kettering’s bulldog mascot.

• Myra Lumpkin, Director of Student Life Student Affairs — Honored for her student-first approach and unwavering dedication to student well-being, fostering an environment where students feel supported and valued.
• Cheri Taylor, Welcome Center Associate Director — Celebrated for her meticulous attention to detail and passion for ensuring the success of recruitment and campus events, along with her steadfast support of University initiatives.
• Jeremy Sanders, University Events Planner — Recognized for his exceptional creativity and collaborative spirit, consistently exceeding expectations in his execution of events and enhancing the overall campus experience.

Research Awards

These awards honor groundbreaking research and innovation that enhance Kettering’s reputation as a leader in engineering, science, and applied research.

• Faculty Fellowships: Awarded to faculty members conducting innovative projects across diverse fields, including advanced manufacturing, AI, sustainable materials, and biomedical engineering. Recipients include Drs. Yufi Li, Javad Baqersad, Osama Aljarrah, Changxi Bai, Demet Usanmaz, and a collaborative team led by Drs. Asanga Manamperi and Sihe Zhang.
• Outstanding New Researcher Award: Dr. Seyed Jamaleddin Mostafavi Yazdi was honored for his pioneering work in mechanics of materials and scientific machine learning.
• Outstanding Researcher Award: Dr. Diane Peters was recognized for her sustained excellence in modeling and controls, reflecting years of dedicated inquiry and application.
• Outstanding Applied Researcher Award: Dr. Jungme Park was celebrated for impactful work in AI, autonomous driving, and intelligent systems, with results that directly benefit industry and society.
• Distinguished Researcher Award: Dr. Theresa Atkinson was commended for over a decade of contributions to biomedical engineering and injury prevention, advancing healthcare and safety.
• Rodes Professorship: Awarded to Dr. Michael Callahan for his profound research on chemical weapons and international policy, reflecting scholarly achievement and leadership.

True Kettering Staff Awards

The True Kettering Staff Awards honor individuals who live the University’s core values of respect, integrity, creativity, collaboration, and excellence. These employees consistently exceed expectations and inspire others.

• Michele Williams, Admissions Communication Plan Specialist — Recognized for her collaborative efforts and dedication to driving innovative projects, often overcoming challenges to achieve exceptional results.
• Heidi Arvin, Industrial and Manufacturing Engineering Laboratory Technician — Celebrated for her inclusive leadership, commitment to fostering a welcoming environment, and significant contributions to cross-disciplinary initiatives.
• Drew Kirtek, Natural Sciences Laboratory Manager — Honored for his reliability, creativity, and ability to inspire through research collaborations, educational outreach, and tireless support for University programs.

������Ƶ Online Instructor of the Year

The ������Ƶ Online Instructor of the Year Award celebrates educators who demonstrate excellence in virtual learning environments, going beyond to inspire and guide their students.

• Dr. Joy Gianakura-Allen was recognized for her impactful teaching and leadership, fostering personal connections with students, and offering valuable insights that shape future leaders.

Teaching Awards

The Center for Excellence in Teaching and Learning (CETL) acknowledges faculty members who excel in pedagogy, student engagement, and educational innovation:

• CETL Distinguished Faculty Service Award: Dr. Diane Peters, for her leadership in student success initiatives and active engagement with professional organizations.
• Outstanding Teaching Awards:
  • Mr. Alan Maestri — Commended for his enthusiasm, adaptability, and ability to inspire a love for mathematics among students.
  • Dr. Corneliu Rablau — Celebrated for his engaging teaching methods and innovative use of technology in physics education.
  • Dr. Mehrdad Zadeh — Honored for fostering intellectual curiosity and critical thinking in computer engineering.
• Terrell Teaching Innovation Grant: Dr. Torsten Maier, for exploring the use of AI to create dynamic and personalized learning experiences.

High Five Awards

Newly added in 2024, the High Five Awards recognize employees who exemplify exceptional teamwork, positive energy, and a commitment to fostering a collaborative campus culture. This year’s recipients, chosen for their outstanding contributions to the University’s recognition program, are:

• Joe Bellor, Senior Shipping/Receiving Clerk
• Leighton Chappell, University Events & Ceremonies Coordinator
• Dotti Gouine, Digital Marketing Manager
• Chris Nelson, Computer Science Administrative Specialist
• Jeremy Sanders, University Events & Ceremonies Planner 

Staff Recognition Awards

������Ƶ recognized the dedication of employees who have reached significant career milestones. Starting with the longest-serving members, honorees included:

• 40 years: Dr. Joe Salacuse.
• 35 years: Scott Cohoon and Irene Putnam.
• 30 years: Patricia Brown, Brady Fair, Dr. Leszek Gawarecki, Michelle Gebhardt, Dr. Jeffrey Hargrove, Kelly Holmquist, Gerald Kozlowski, and Dr. Lihua Wang.
• 25 years: Dr. Ezekiel Gebissa, Dr. Craig Hoff, Susan Lafeldt, and Dr. Arnaldo Mazzei Jr.
• 20 years: Erin Bolton, Kevin Isom, and Dr. Nozar Tabrizi.
• 15 years: Bonnie Switzer and Dr. Mehrdad Zadeh.
• 10 years: Pam Batra, Douglas Bourassa, Dr. Farnaz Ghazi Nezami, Dr. Ronald Tackett, and Dr. James Zhang.
• 5 years: Lauren Arant, Anjali Barnick, Lindsey Baxter, Melanie Bazil, Professor Kristy Brinker Brouwer, Courtney Cooney, Sharrie Creasey Thorpe, Harold Dumanois, Dr. Babak Elahi, Dr. David Foster, Scott Gray, Professor John Grether, Dr. Janie Jacobs, Scott Laforest, Matthew Mead, Craig Niswonger, S.E. Pavlica, Shaeanne Riedel, Laurie Schaibly, Kimberly Shumaker, and Eric Szczepanski.

Additionally, the University welcomed 31 new employees who began their careers at Kettering in the past year.

In closing, Dr. McMahan reiterated the importance of the work being done at the University: “Your collective work, your belief in our Kettering educational process, and your commitment to our students, alumni, and our community truly make a difference.” 

Not everyone can say they’ve left a legacy that aligns directly with the institution’s future, but Dr. Kingsley Joel Berry ’79 ME has. For almost 50 years — first as a driven student, then as the youngest Mechanical Engineering professor and eventual department head — Dr. Berry set the standard for innovation, education, and community impact at ������Ƶ. His recent $200,000 endowment to launch the Kingsberry Sustainability Lab exemplifies Dr. Berry’s deep commitment to the generations who will follow.

From Student to Professor

Dr. Berry’s journey began in the 1970s when he enrolled at General Motors Institute (GMI), where his curiosity and tenacity quickly set him apart. As one of the first African American students at GMI, he knew this opportunity could define his life’s path. “Coming to GMI was the best decision I made,” he says. After earning his degree in Mechanical Engineering with a minor in Automotive Engineering, Dr. Berry pursued a master’s in Engineering Mechanics at Michigan State University and later a Ph.D. at Carnegie Mellon University. By 1986, he was back at Kettering, stepping into a faculty career that would influence generations of future engineers.

A Trailblazing Educator

Dr. Berry became the youngest faculty member in Mechanical Engineering and embraced the challenges of being a trailblazer as the only person of color in the department. “I had never taught a full class before,” he admits, but he quickly developed his teaching methods and significantly impacted his students. Over the years, he rose through the ranks to the department head. In his nearly two decades in that role, he helped build new labs, restructured the curriculum, and secured over $5.7 million in funding to ensure Kettering students gained hands-on experience with cutting-edge technology. 

Throughout his career, Dr. Berry published more than 50 articles related to his research and stamped his name on four patents. Fuel cells and related work became central to his research. The Flint Journal dubbed Dr. Berry “Flint’s Fuel Cell Father” for his dedicated efforts to ensure that the Vehicle City would play a key role in shaping the future of automotive transportation. In 1993, he earned the Charles L. Tutt Award for Innovative Teaching, an honor named for former GMI Dean of Engineering Dr. Charles L. Tutt. A year later, Dr. Berry was named GMI Outstanding Professor of the Year. In 2021, he was honored with Kettering's prestigious Rodes Professorship award, which recognizes faculty for outstanding scholarly achievement, and a $5,000 grant to support continued research. Then, in 2024, Dr. Berry made the decision to retire from the classroom — but not before ensuring his legacy with a significant gift to the University.  

A Vision for the Future: The Kingsberry Sustainability Lab

In an impressive gesture, Dr. Berry and his wife Linette recently announced a generous $200,000 endowment to establish the Kingsberry Sustainability Lab at ������Ƶ. This gift is not just a one-time donation; it’s an investment in the future. He envisions a space where students can explore fuel cells, alternative energy, and technologies that will shape a sustainable world. Dr. Berry’s decision to fund this laboratory is rooted in a belief he must “pay it forward” to honor the opportunities he received. “I want this laboratory to allow future students to benefit from innovative technology,” he explains, pointing to the importance of fuel cell technology and alternative energy in addressing climate change.

With his endowment, Dr. Berry aims to inspire others to invest in the future of education, setting a challenge for fellow faculty members and alumni to contribute as well. “I want this to be an example for other faculty ... even if it’s just like $20,000, $10,000 ... to inspire,” he says, highlighting community support's critical role in sustaining educational excellence.

“This endowment will be here for centuries after I’m gone,” he states firmly, underscoring that his contributions are not solely about personal accolades but about enriching the lives of future generations.

Although Dr. Berry is no longer teaching at the University, he is educating a new audience: federal lawmakers. Dr. Berry’s latest role is in Washington, D.C., as an ASME Congressional Fellow, working in the office of Sen. Mark Kelly of Arizona, focusing on technology policy development, particularly in artificial intelligence and energy initiatives. Reflecting on this new chapter, he expresses excitement about the opportunity to influence policy at the national level. “It’s great ... this is the perfect transition for me ... the staff is so positive, so encouraging,” he says. His experience at Kettering has equipped him with the skills to address pressing issues like STEM education, Artificial Intelligence and energy, and workforce development — critical concerns as new facilities emerge as a result of significant investments in semiconductor manufacturing.

 A Lasting Legacy

As Dr. Berry steps into the next phase of his life, he does so with the intention of motivating others — faculty members, students, and the broader community — to engage, contribute, and make a difference. “Excellence is achieved by people, passion, and purpose, not policy,” Dr. Berry says, encapsulating his belief in the transformative power of education and community.

Dr. Berry's close-knit family shares his commitment to education and environmental sustainability. He and his wife Linette share four adult children, all of them involved in scientific fields. His daughters, Ashley ’08, M’13, and Sydney ’12, M’12, are ������Ƶ alumni, and his youngest daughter, Kimberly, holds a Ph.D. in neuroscience from the University of Pittsburgh. His son Jonathon is earning a master’s degree in mechanical engineering from Johns Hopkins University and expects to graduate in May 2025.  

Dr. Berry’s faith plays a central role in his journey, shaping his belief that everything he has achieved is part of a divine plan. “I fundamentally believe this has been God’s plan for me,” he says. “ ... It’s my way of paying it forward and backward, and it's my way of thanking God for all my blessings in my life.” 

Today, ������Ƶ announces that Associate Professor of Mechanical Engineering Dr. Diane Peters has earned the prestigious 2024 SWE Distinguished Engineering Educator Award from the Society of Women Engineers (SWE). This honor celebrates her dedicated contributions to engineering education over the past two decades.

The Distinguished Engineering Educator Award recognizes individuals who excel in engineering education and have made significant contributions for at least 20 years. Dr. Peters, a seasoned educator and longtime member of SWE, has demonstrated an exceptional commitment to advancing engineering knowledge and fostering the next generation of engineers.

“This award is such an honor since it recognizes that my work has made an impact, particularly on students — especially women students — and their future careers as engineers and leaders,” Dr. Peters said. “I’d also like to extend my congratulations to the other winners of this award and all the other amazing people receiving various awards from the Society of Women Engineers.”

Dr. Peters is known as a central figure within the Mechanical Engineering department at ������Ƶ who is dedicated to students and advises several organizations. She is the faculty advisor to the ������Ƶ chapter of the Society of Women Engineers (SWE) and co-advisor to the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) chapter, including the AutoDrive Challenge team. Dr. Peters also serves as the advisor to ������Ƶ’s chapter of Tau Beta Pi, a national engineering honor society that recognizes undergraduate engineering students for distinguished scholarship and exemplary character.

Dr. Peters has also made significant contributions with her engineering research. Her work has enhanced the learning atmosphere to drive excellence and set a higher standard for engineering education. Recently, she led a team responsible for a $465,000 National Science Foundation (NSF) grant to establish a new Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) site at Kettering.  She also led another team of faculty members that received an NSF grant of more than $398,000 for the Enabling Meaningful External Research Growth in Emergent Technologies (EMERGE) project. EMERGE is meant to build meaningful partnerships among faculty and industry to help students target their research to industry needs.

"Dr. Peters’s exceptional commitment to her students and the University shines through her innovative teaching and unwavering support,” said Dr. Scott Grasman, ������Ƶ Dean of the College of Engineering. “Her profound impact on engineering education and her dedication to empowering future engineers make her a standout recipient of the Society of Women Engineers Distinguished Educator Award.”  

“I am incredibly proud to celebrate Dr. Diane Peters for receiving the prestigious SWE Distinguished Engineering Educator Award,” said ������Ƶ Provost Dr. James Zhang. “This honor not only reflects her exceptional commitment to fostering excellence in engineering education but also underscores our institution’s dedication to empowering the next generation of innovators. Diane’s passion for teaching and mentorship has left an indelible mark on both students and colleagues alike. Congratulations to Dr. Peters for this well-deserved recognition.”

Dr. Peters holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Notre Dame, a Master’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Illinois Chicago, and a Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Michigan. She also has years of industry experience with manufacturers such as A. B. Dick Company (ABDick), Mid-West Automation Systems, Western Printing Machinery, and  LMS International. She has also taught at Oakton Community College and Eastern Michigan University and worked as a postdoctoral research fellow at the University of Michigan. Dr. Peters joined the ������Ƶ faculty in 2013 and is now an Associate Professor of Mechanical Engineering. 

Dr. Peters has been the Principal Investigator on several grants, including three from the National Science Foundation, and has authored over 90 scholarly papers and publications. She also holds two patents. Her service to SWE includes a variety of positions at all levels. She currently serves on the SWE Research Advisory Council.

In October, Dr. Peters was recognized at WE24, the Society of Women Engineers’ annual conference and career fair in Chicago. WE24 is the world’s largest event dedicated to women engineers and technologists, offering a platform for professional development, networking, and inspiration. Several current Kettering students were in attendance for the event, including Monali Baker ’26 (ME), Dahlie Rose Canalita ’26 (EE), Danielle Ciokajlo ’27 (ME), Adria Dixon ’25 (EE), Tanisha Francis ’25 (CE), Kaia Hospodarsky ’27 (CS), Kayla Hughes ’26 (EE), Meadow Loukmas ’26 (ME), Gabrielle Miller ’25 (ME), Abi Shinoj ’25 (ME), and Sabrina York ’25 (ME). Shelley Knust ’92 (EE), Vice President of Product Compliance and Regulatory Affairs (PCRA) Cummins Inc., also served as one of the keynote speakers for the event. The SWE Distinguished Engineering Educator Award is one of several honors presented by SWE to acknowledge the outstanding achievements of individuals in the engineering field. Congratulations to Dr. Diane Peters for this well-deserved recognition!

 (Photo Credit SWE)

 (Photo Credit SWE)

In December 2023, Dr. Ronald Kumon, ������Ƶ Associate Professor of Natural Sciences, was awarded the Center for Excellence in Teaching & Learning (CETL) Terrell Teaching Innovation Grant, a $6,000 investment to transform his Physics 224 course into a cutting-edge learning experience. Dr. Kumon’s goal is to integrate wireless technology and amateur radio in ways that excite students and prepare them for future careers in STEM fields. Through the CETL grant, he’s redefining how hands-on learning meets the future of communication technology.

To prepare for the redesigned course, Dr. Kumon attended national conferences, connected with other universities, and collaborated with Kettering alumni to shape a program that sets students up for success. As part of his outreach, Dr. Kumon participated in key amateur radio events and research initiatives, including a solar eclipse radio experiment that gathered critical scientific data.

“My work on the ‘Electricity and Magnetism’ course is focused on placing the traditional content of the course into the context of a topic of contemporary interest, namely wireless technology,” Dr. Kumon said. “I am planning to use amateur radio licensing as an entry point into wireless technology because it will enable students to gain practical skills and a credential that can potentially last a lifetime.”

Students who take the new course will have the chance to earn an amateur radio license — adding a professional credential to their portfolio. With the course set to launch in Fall 2024, Dr. Kumon is already preparing future coursework, labs, and materials, ensuring students don’t just learn — they lead.

������Ƶ proudly marked the 30th anniversary of its partnership with four Universities of Applied Sciences in Baden-Wuerttemberg, Germany. A weeklong series of events celebrating this milestone culminated in a symposium on Artificial Intelligence and Autonomous Driving hosted by our partners in Konstanz, Germany, on July 10, 2024. The symposium showcased the innovative research conducted by faculty members from all participating institutions and fostered new partnerships and collaborations.

The symposium featured distinguished speakers from ������Ƶ, including:

• Dr. Jungme Park, Associate Professor of Computer Engineering, who discussed "Enhancing Environmental Perception for Autonomous Driving using DNN and Sensor Fusion Technologies."
• Dr. Girma Tewolde, Professor of Computer Engineering, who presented "Autonomous Mobility Teaching and Research Activities at ������Ƶ."
• Dr. Lisa Gandy, Associate Professor of Computer Science, who explored "Using Large Language Models in Medical Technology."
• Dr. Seyed Jamaleddin Mostafavi Yazdi, Assistant Professor of Mechanical Engineering, who spoke  about "Leveraging Physics-Informed Neural Networks for Advanced Mechanical Characterization and Optimization of Lattice Structures."

In July 1994, a delegation of educators from Baden-Wurttemberg traveled to Flint, Michigan, and visited ������Ƶ, then called GMI Engineering and Management Institute or GMI/EMI, to sign the first agreement with then-University President Dr. Jim John. The first semester-long exchanges began in 1996, allowing ������Ƶ students to experience life in Germany while earning college credit and bringing German students into the Kettering community. It was the first exchange program of its kind in ������Ƶ's history. Today, the program is the University’s largest and most active exchange program. 

More than 3,400 students and faculty members have participated during the program’s 30-year existence. These exchanges have fostered collaborative research and innovations that have enriched learning for students and faculty on both sides of the Atlantic. The program has allowed Kettering students, who have rigid schedules due to Co-op and rigorous 11-week academic terms, to enjoy a study abroad experience, as the Baden-Wurttemberg universities modified their schedules to match Kettering’s term calendar and length.

“Studying abroad encourages our students to develop the skills needed to succeed in the workplace, such as intercultural communication, problem-solving, and adaptability,” said Laura Allen, Director of the ������Ƶ Office of International Programs. “Experiencing an academic program in another country also encourages our students to engage in new ways of learning and, when students return home, apply these new skills and experiences to their academic program and Co-op.” 

The enduring collaboration with Reutlingen University, Esslingen University, Ulm University, and Konstanz University is supported by the Ministry of Science, Research, and Arts of Baden-Wurttemberg and the Baden-Wurttemberg Foundation.

In July 2024, ������Ƶ President Dr. Robert McMahan, Provost and Senior Vice President of Academic Affairs Dr. James Zhang, and a delegation from Kettering traveled to Germany to celebrate the milestone anniversary with some of the people responsible for creating the partnership 30 years ago. During the celebration dinner, Dr. McMahan paid tribute to Dr. Ron Greenwood, who was instrumental in organizing the first delegation from Flint to Germany; Prof. Gerhard Walliser, who coordinated the program from 1994 until 2010; and Prof. Baldur Veit, who has coordinated the program in partnership with the Ministry of Science, Research, and the Arts of Baden-Wuerttemberg since 2011. The celebration also saw the signing of a new Memorandum of Understanding, renewing the commitment to the international partnership and laying the groundwork for future collaborations.

"As we look to the future, we are committed to exploring new opportunities for growth and innovation," Dr. McMahan said. "As we sign the new Memorandum of Understanding, we do so with a renewed sense of purpose and enthusiasm. Together, we will strive to enhance our programs, expand our research collaborations, and create even more opportunities for our students and faculty."

This anniversary commemorates three decades of academic and cultural exchange and highlights the ongoing commitment to innovation, collaboration, and excellence that ������Ƶ and its German partners share. Current Kettering faculty member Dr. Mo Torfeh has been a part of the exchange program from the beginning. Dr. Torfeh is a professor of electrical and computer engineering specializing in automotive electronic control systems, electric vehicle propulsion, and solar photovoltaic energy systems. Torfeh has also served as the faculty coordinator for the Baden-Wuerttemberg program. “Kettering students who participate in the exchange learn skills that are very beneficial for when everything's getting global. We have to work with all kinds of cultures,” said Torfeh. “The German students benefit from the opportunity to strengthen their English skills. And all of the students build strong connections and friendships with one another.” Torfeh has also served as the faculty coordinator for the Baden-Wuerttemberg program. In that role, he advises Kettering ECE students who want to participate in the exchange. Dr. Torfeh also coordinates research projects for German students who wish to complete their master's thesis while at Kettering.

Another Kettering faculty member, Dr. Jungme Park, associate professor of electrical and computer engineering, specializes in environmental perception for autonomous driving and the optimization of deep neural networks for artificial intelligence and serves as a research advisor for German students.

As we look to the future, the symposium in Konstanz symbolizes the continued dedication to pushing the boundaries of research and fostering global academic relationships. It is thanks to the hard work and commitment of everyone involved that the collaboration has become a shining example of what can be achieved through international cooperation.

from the week of events in Germany.

The inaugural Industry Research Summit — the first occasion to bring collaborators together at ������Ƶ under the U.S. National Science Foundation (NSF) Enabling Partnerships to Increase Innovation Capacity (EPIIC) program's Enabling Meaningful External Research Growth in Emergent Technologies (EMERGE) grant — was held on May 17, 2024. 

The EMERGE Cohort includes ������Ƶ, University of the Incarnate Word, University of Northern Colorado, and Western Carolina University. Cohort members share a common vision to EMERGE as recognized partners in research and development, translating research into practice, and in talent development in emerging technology. The U.S. NSF awards EPIIC grants of three years in length to up to 50 institutions each year. Each award is worth up to $400,000 per recipient institution. 

In line with the EMERGE goals, the Industry Research Summit featured distinguished speakers and engaging discussions to enhance partnerships between ������Ƶ and industry stakeholders. Representing General Motors, Dr. Jeff Abell ’85 delivered the keynote address, emphasizing successful collaboration models. 

“The phrase, ‘Necessity is the mother of invention,’ is really the starting point for industry. We will not work on projects or research or partnerships that do not fulfill one of our needs,” said Dr. Abell, a former member of the Kettering faculty. “And from my own university experience, it's very difficult to know what these needs are unless you are very close to an industry partner.”

During the daylong Summit, attendees engaged in interactive discussions and breakout sessions to enhance ������Ƶ's industry collaborations through classroom-based and cutting-edge research. The event culminated in a poster exhibit where faculty showcased their research goals, identifying opportunities for future partnerships.

Dr. Diane Peters, ������Ƶ Associate Professor of Mechanical Engineering, is the principal investigator of the EMERGE project. “The Industry Research Summit is a key part of our activities since it serves as a springboard for all the other things we want to achieve,” Dr. Peters said. “It's enabled us to get input from multiple voices on how to accomplish our goals and given us some great new ideas to add to the activities we set forth in the original plans.” 

Dr. Scott Grasman, Dean of Kettering’s College of Engineering, and Dr. Javad Baqersad, Associate Professor of Mechanical Engineering, are co-principal investigators. 

The insights and recommendations from all Summit participants will be compiled into a report that will be a blueprint for ������Ƶ's Year 2 plans for the NSF EPIIC grant. Proposed initiatives include establishing a graduate internship program and developing opportunities for faculty to engage in industry-focused research during non-teaching periods.

One example of what is possible through the NSF EPIIC program is ������Ƶ’s OpenRoad partnership. Inside ������Ƶ’s AMPED Lab, OpenRoad, a manufacturer of portable range boosters for electric vehicles, collaborates with Kettering students and professors to break new ground in EVs. To learn more about the OpenRoad partnership, visit .

This Spring, the Kettering community embraced a new challenge again, achieving a record-setting 89% participation rate for the 2024 FUNd Drive. A remarkable 307 faculty and staff members contributed financially to this year’s campaign.

“The generosity of Kettering’s faculty and staff is astounding,” said Jennifer Patterson, Vice President of University Advancement & External Affairs. “It illustrates deep commitment to our students, but also to each other as we collaborate to make the Kettering experience transformational and profound for our entire community.”

The impressive rate of giving by Kettering employees positively impacts the University in many ways. Faculty/staff giving often boosts the overall alumni giving rate as well. Industry rankings, such as those from US News & World Report, consider faculty giving rates when ranking institutions- and by extension, those rankings can impact a student’s choice to enroll. High internal giving rates also exemplify employee confidence in ������Ƶ’s mission and leadership. This endorsement enhances the University’s reputation among external stakeholders, including potential donors and funding organizations. By encouraging faculty and staff to give, ������Ƶ also helps to foster a culture of philanthropy that extends beyond the campus.

The 2024 FUNd Drive campaign, led by co-chairs Sam Klaskow, Director of the Academic Success Center, and Dr. Reem Alzahabi, Assistant Professor of Psychology, ran from April 18 to May 17. The funds raised will support various campus initiatives, with donations directed to 39 different funds, including current student programs, scholarships, and departmental support.

Nearly 20% of all contributions were allocated to the Keep Me Kettering scholarship, which assists students facing financial challenges. Another significant recipient was the Kettering Gift Fund, which enables the University to seize unplanned and unpredictable opportunities throughout the school year. This fund enhances the campus experience by supporting academic programs, on-campus activities, research equipment, and general facilities.

Dr. Reem Alzahabi, Assistant Professor of Psychology and Faculty Co-chair, said, “I give back to Kettering because I am deeply invested in my community's growth. When Kettering thrives, its students thrive, its faculty and staff thrive, and so does the community. I like to give to the Kettering Gift Fund because my donation directly benefits students and their ability to advance in their education and careers.”

On May 21, staff and faculty gathered in the Learning Commons to celebrate the success of the 2024 FUNd Drive. President Robert McMahan expressed his gratitude during the celebration: "Your participation in the FUNd Drive demonstrates a belief in Kettering, and that belief attracts additional support from alumni, friends, corporations, and foundations.”

Over the past 11 years, the FUNd Drive has raised more than $650,000 to support students in fulfilling their educational opportunities at ������Ƶ.

������Ƶ is proud to announce the appointment of Coach Dan Nowaczyk as Director of Esports. Nowaczyk’s appointment comes after five years of leadership and dedication, during which he has been instrumental in expanding the program's scope and impact. This move illustrates the University's commitment to the growing Esports program.

Leveling up from its early days when it included three game titles and 20 participants, the Esports program has rapidly grown under Nowaczyk's skillful leadership. It now hosts six major game titles and nearly 100 players. His style emphasizes succeeding competitively and creating educational and community engagement opportunities. “The growth of everything is 1,000% a team effort,” Nowaczyk said. “It’s a ‘we’ or ‘us’ thing for sure, not just with myself and our Esports athletes, but working with academic departments, University events, admissions, financial aid, and everyone else on campus.”

Under Nowaczyk's leadership, the program has introduced Esports scholarships and summer camps, boosting the team’s student enrollment and engagement. “Esports scholarships have helped grow the organization; they have allowed students to come here knowing they’re getting a fantastic education while also being able to compete in something they are incredibly passionate about,” Nowaczyk explained.

Nowaczyk’s commitment extends beyond Kettering’s campus; his work includes community partnerships and mentorship programs, notably in local high schools and with the Sylvester Broome Empowerment Village. “The Esports summer camp we run has shown prospective students what working in a collegiate environment is like,” he said, highlighting the program's role in educating future generations about the potential of Esports participation in college.

Miranda Martin ’25 (Computer Science) joined the Esports team as a freshman and currently plays “Overwatch 2.”  “Coach Dan has been an absolutely amazing influence on my development as an Esports player, a leader, and as a student in general at Kettering,” Martin said. “He has taught me the importance of different teaching styles with different personality types, how to encourage others, and how to cultivate a healthy team environment.”

Nowaczyk has expanded the Esports program to include community partnerships and mentoring for high school students, significantly elevating the culture within Kettering's Esports community. “Student acknowledgment and respect for Esports has steadily grown within Kettering itself,” Martin said. “Coach Dan has been integral in the program. Honestly, joining the team is one of the best decisions I have made at Kettering.”

Looking to the future, Nowaczyk is enthusiastic about further enhancing Kettering’s Esports landscape. “We will be more involved with the K-12 Esports scene this next year,” he said. “We’re excited for our 24-hour ExtraLife event in November to raise money for Hurley Children’s Hospital. If we hit our donation goal, I’ll get a tattoo designed by the kids at the hospital.”

Nowaczyk's new position as Director of Esports at ������Ƶ is not just a role; it's a commitment to his vision and the collaborative efforts of the Kettering community. His leadership inspires a culture of excellence, inclusion, and growth, ensuring Kettering remains at the forefront of the collegiate Esports movement.

������Ƶ’s African American Alumni Network members gathered Saturday, May 18, to celebrate the outstanding contributions of retired professor Dr. Petros “Pete” Gheresus and current faculty member Dr. K. Joel Berry.

Dr. Gheresus (also known affectionately as Professor Pete) is a native of Eritrea, East Africa. With an 8th-grade education, he emigrated to the United States, settling in Minnesota when he was 19. His determined spirit pushed him to earn a high school diploma and continue his journey into higher education - eventually earning a doctorate in Industrial Engineering from Iowa State University.

Dr. Gheresus joined General Motors Institute (GMI), now ������Ƶ, in 1980. Over his tenure, he held several pivotal roles, including Director of the Industrial Engineering Program and the Director of the Computer Center. In 1984, he co-founded the Academically Interested Minds (AIM) program, which continues to provide high school students with a taste of the rigorous, hands-on Kettering experience by exposing them to college-level math, science, and business courses.

While Dr. Gheresus retired from Kettering in 2022 after more than 40 years of service, he continues to serve the University outside the classroom by promoting robotics education to Genesee County area teachers and students.

Rahel Medhanie ‘16, M’21 shared her thoughts on how Dr. Gheresus embodies the Kettering spirit, “Pete exemplifies what it means to be a great person, teacher, and engineer and continues to be a staple in fostering engineering and technology education in his local community, as well as in his home country.”

Dr. K. Joel Berry is a current ������Ƶ faculty member and an alumnus. Dr. Berry earned a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering in 1979 from GMI. Since joining the faculty in 1987, he has inspired more than 4,000 young minds. Ella Reevers ‘80, counts Dr. Berry as a constant positive influence in her life, “He is focused on the prize and is very much like the mascot of our alma mater, the Bulldog,” she said. “Once he commits to a plan, he sees it through. Something he encourages others to do as well.”

Dr. Berry was the first person of color to join ������Ƶ’s Mechanical Engineering faculty and became the longest-serving Head of an Engineering Department in the history of the University. Dr. Berry is also the founder and Director of the Kettering Center for Fuel Cell Systems Integration. He lists his priorities as God, family, academics, and basketball -- in that order.

Ricky Brown, Director of Multicultural Student Affairs, said both Dr. Berry and Dr. Gheresus have made a huge impact on Kettering, “They have taught thousands of students in the fields of engineering and computer programming. Through their dedication and passion, they have educated and touched the lives of so many successful professionals worldwide. Drs. Berry and Gheresus have been a positive force for Kettering's students of color. They have gone over and beyond their call of duty to mentor the students. Kettering is one of the top-ranked universities in the country when it comes to retention for students of color in  engineering, and these two gentlemen are part of that legacy of success.” 

About ������Ƶ’s African American Alumni Network

The AAAN was founded in 2019 by 35 of Kettering’s African American alums who wanted to make a difference. The ������Ƶ African American Alumni Scholarship Endowment was born through donations from those original members. While providing financial assistance through scholarships is the mission of the Network, mentoring remains a top priority. The hope is that all who are touched by the African American Alumni Network and Scholarship Endowment will follow their mentors’ lead and continue the tradition of support.

������Ƶ announced today that Dr. Lisa Gandy, an Associate Professor of Computer Science, Her study focuses on the market migration trends of women medical researchers leaving academia.

Dr. Gandy’s study addresses the critical underrepresentation of women as Principal Investigators in clinical trials, which she links to a corresponding reduction in women participating in these trials, ultimately affecting the quality of cancer care delivered to female patients. Leveraging her expertise in data science, particularly in natural language processing and machine learning, Dr. Gandy utilized LinkedIn data to trace the career movements of women in the field.

“Social sciences and data analysis really work hand in hand. For instance, in this paper, we explore statistical differences in grants received, papers published, and whether women stay in the clinical research space,” Dr. Gandy said. “Now that we have shown there is a statistically significant difference, a social scientist can do interviews, etc, and really tease apart why these disparities exist.”

Dr. Gandy’s publication in "Cancer Cell" signifies a significant advancement in addressing critical issues in the oncology field and illustrates ������Ƶ's ongoing dedication to cutting-edge research and societal betterment.

About “Cancer Cell”

"Cancer Cell" is a preeminent journal within the scientific community dedicated to publishing pivotal advances in cancer research and oncology. The journal is committed to advancing our understanding of naturally occurring cancers, primarily focusing on manuscripts that offer significant insights into pressing questions in the field. It is known for its emphasis on translational research that bridges experimental science with clinical applications.

Maintaining a rigorous selection process and upholding high scientific standards, "Cancer Cell" contributes profoundly to advancing cancer research, ensuring that each publication enhances our collective capability to fight cancer more effectively.