The donations of $1.5 million from nearly 200 ECpE alumni and support from Texas Instruments created the endowed Jerry R. Junkins Chair position in 1996. Junkins (BSEE ’59), who rose to become the CEO and president of Texas Instruments, passed away suddenly while traveling on business in 1996. Texas Instruments employees and Iowa State alumni organized the Jerry R. Junkins Memorial Fund Campaign to honor their boss and his alma mater.
The chair position is awarded to a professor who demonstrates understanding of the theory and application of digital signal processing and information technologies, provides leadership in developing digital signal processing and information technology courses and research programs, maintains high standards of excellence to build a program rich in innovation and educational effectiveness, and promotes communication and interaction with industry, especially with Texas Instruments.
CHAIR RECIPIENTS:
- Degang J. Chen (2014-present)
- Arun K. Somani (2002-2014)