Fall 2024 Ted Rogers Scholarship recipients (L-R) Tristian Belardo, Alexander Harris and Davison Tsekeni at the FAMU-FSU College of Engineering in Tallahassee. (Scott Holstein/FAMU-FSU College of Engineering)
Three outstanding students from the FAMU-FSU College of Engineering have been awarded the prestigious Ted Rogers-Intuitive Scholars and Fellowship Program Award.
These Florida A&M University students are embarking on a journey fueled by a unique partnership between the college and the Intuitive Foundation. The program provides transformative opportunities for historically underrepresented and first-generation junior, senior, and graduate-level engineering students, including life-changing summer internships.
Alexander Harris
Hailing from Tampa and Miami, Alexander Harris is a senior in computer programming engineering within the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering. His research focuses on haptic technology for VR gloves, aiming to create realistic touch and sensation feedback.
“If we can make this technology work and affordable, it could lead to effective hands-on training options for various fields requiring intense focus and precision,” Harris explained.
Originally, Harris pursued an ambitious goal of developing a brainwave receptor that translates brain activity into code. “Dr. Jerris Hooker helped me realize the complexity of the steps I was skipping, guiding me toward haptics for VR gloves,” Harris said. “Dr. Hooker constantly challenges and pushes me forward in my research.”
Harris is enthusiastic about the new opportunities the scholarship will bring. “This recognition will really help me achieve my research goals,” he said.
Davison Tsekeni
Davison Tsekeni, a graduate student in industrial and manufacturing engineering, combines critical thinking with an eye for efficiency to drive the field forward. Originally from Harare, Zimbabwe, he is passionate about optimizing resource allocation in the face of infrastructure challenges.
“The main challenges stem from under-resourced public services, which often require operating under constraints,” Tsekeni explained. “This drove my interest in using mathematics, statistics, and data models to allocate resources effectively, leading me to industrial engineering.”
Tsekeni’s current research focuses on managing public health crises during natural disasters, particularly in Florida. By integrating mathematical and statistical models with hurricane evacuation scenarios, he aims to predict the spread of infectious diseases and optimize resources during emergencies.
“The goal is to develop decision-making frameworks for sheltering during pandemics and natural disasters, enhancing community resilience,” he said. Tsekeni works with Professor Arda Vanli on projects funded by the National Science Foundation.
“As a first-generation university student, this scholarship lightens my financial burden, allowing me to focus on my studies and research,” Tsekeni shared. “It motivates me to make a lasting impact in industrial engineering, especially in disaster management and public safety.”
Tristian Belardo
Tristian Belardo, a senior interested in mechanical engineering, is known for his ingenuity and problem-solving abilities. Growing up in Orlando, he discovered his passion for engineering through a high school program and an early exposure to manufacturing at the NPE Plastics Show.
“My high school engineering program opened my eyes to manufacturing,” Belardo said. “Seeing machines produce various items from plastics fueled my desire to contribute to the field.”
Belardo draws inspiration from his family, particularly his single mother, who encouraged him during difficult times. His brother, now the Director of Orchestral Activities at Furman University, also motivates him to pursue his goals.
“My favorite professor is Dr. Shayne McConomy, who taught me engineering design and senior design,” Belardo said. “He prepares us for careers in engineering and provides invaluable life lessons.”
The scholarship brings more than recognition for Belardo; it eases the financial strain of higher education. “The financial support will allow me to focus on my education, senior design projects, and potential research opportunities,” he explained. Belardo plans to pursue a career in renewable energy or the rail industry before eventually returning for his master’s degree
Each recipient will receive a $2,500 scholarship for the 2024-2025 academic year, recognizing their hard work and dedication to engineering.
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