Valparaiso University Alumna Named IEEE Fellow

Valparaiso University graduate Cheryl Schrader ’84 E.E., Ph.D., has been recognized as an IEEE Fellow for her leadership and contributions in engineering education. Schrader is a past president of the IEEE Control Systems Society and the current chancellor of the Missouri University of Science and Technology.

“It is a great honor to be included in this prestigious group of renowned engineers,” Schrader said. “I joined IEEE while an undergraduate at Valparaiso University, where I not only developed a strong technical and professional foundation complemented by a Christ College education, but also a sense of personal vocation.”

The IEEE, formally known as the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers, confers the grade of fellow upon a person with an outstanding record of accomplishments in any of the IEEE fields of interest. It is the highest grade of membership and is recognized by the technical community as a prestigious honor and an important career achievement.

“This is truly a fitting accomplishment for Cheryl, whose career as an engineer and an educator exemplifies the outstanding nature of Valpo’s College of Engineering alumni,” said Eric Johnson, Ph.D., dean of the College of Engineering.

An accomplished electrical engineer, Schrader has conducted award-winning research in systems and control. In addition to research, Schrader has a true passion for education. She has dedicated her life to mentoring students in the fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.

“I’m not certain I would be the chancellor of a technological research university today without the leadership opportunities afforded me at Valpo and beyond in IEEE,” Schrader said. “IEEE is all about advancing technology for humanity, and through this organization I am blessed to have had the opportunity to impact engineering education, technology, and society.”

Previously, Schrader has been recognized as one of “Idaho’s Women Making History” and one of the “150 Most Influential People of Valparaiso University.” She has received several best paper awards, authored 100 publications, delivered more than 100 invited presentations and keynote addresses, and secured grant and contract funding in excess of $11 million.

Schrader earned her bachelor of science in electrical engineering from Valparaiso University and went on to earn a master of science and a Ph.D. in electrical engineering from the University of Notre Dame.

The IEEE is the world’s leading professional organization for advancing technology for humanity. Through its 400,000 members in 160 countries, the organization is a leading authority on a wide variety of areas ranging from aerospace systems, computers, and telecommunications to biomedical engineering, electric power, and consumer electronics.