Chatham's Robert Haislip Achieves Scholastic Excellence at University of Delaware

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Robert Haislip

NEWARK, DE (09/29/2011)(readMedia)-- Robert Haislip, a graduate student in the University of Delaware Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering (ECE) has won honorable mention for the 2011 Eta Kappa Nu Outstanding Electrical and Computer Science Award.

The designation ties Haislip for second place in the national Eta Kappa Nu competition, which recognizes "outstanding scholastic excellence and high moral character, coupled with demonstrated exemplary service to classmates, university, community, and country."

Eta Kappa Nu (HKN) is a 107-year-old honor society for electrical and computer engineering students and professionals who have demonstrated exceptional academic and professional accomplishments. The society has more than 250,000 members and nearly 200 university chapters.

Today, Haislip, who earned his bachelor's degree in electrical engineering at UD in spring 2011, is studying circuit design in the department.

Since 2009, he has served as a research assistant in a group called CVORG - CMOS VLSI Optimization Research Group, under Fouad Kiamilev, professor of electrical engineering. His research focuses on infrared microchip design, with heavy emphasis on hardware and firmware development.

Haislip's work on the WiiAssist, a modified Nintendo Wii remote and balance board that helps people with disabilities use computers, was featured last summer on G4TV, an American cable and satellite television channel based on the world of video games and newest technology.

"What sets Robert apart from others at UD is his ability to succeed academically while actively participating in other activities," said Leonard J. Cimini, professor of electrical and computer engineering, who serves as adviser to the University's HKN chapter, Epsilon Omicron. "This is an indication of his intellectual capabilities, as well as his diligence, discipline and hard work."

In addition to academics, Haislip is also very active musically, participating in the UD Jazz, Steel Drum and Pep Band ensembles, and performing locally with various jazz groups.

Haislip is a member of Tau Beta Pi, the National Society of Collegiate Scholars and Alpha Lambda Delta. He is also an Eagle Scout, the highest rank attainable in the Boy Scouts of America.

This is the third year in a row that electrical engineering students have earned recognition in the Eta Kappa Nu competition. Jill Desmond won honorable mention in 2009 and Matthew Churgin was selected as a finalist in 2010.

Article by Gabriella Chiera

Photo by Ambre Alexander