Thomas Chelliah Receives the Dean’s Award for Excellence in Service

People use words like thoughtful, respectful, innovative and caring when they describe Thomas. We are very lucky to have him as a colleague.

Thomas has been instrumental in establishing state-of-the-art teaching and research labs for ECE. His ability to coordinate with colleagues inside the department and out has been an important factor in bringing large projects to fruition, but it is Thomas’ commitment to students that really stands out.

Here are just a few things ECE students and colleagues have to say about Thomas:

Thomas has made enormous contributions to the development of the Department and to the well-being of undergraduates’ academic life. Thomas is also warm and understanding and shows great caring for his students. He often goes out of his way to help those in need, giving professional guidance and ensures the safety and well-being of the students. Despite his busy schedule, Thomas always stays in touch with students, offering us much-needed help and support, enriching our learning experience.

Dexter Lin, graduate of the Electrical Engineering, Energy Systems program in 2013

Thomas realizes that, in a university environment, what he does really impacts the educational experience of many undergraduate and graduate students, and he  enjoys seeing the results of his work being used and appreciated by the students every day. He takes fun in his work and in his interactions with students and co-workers. 
Dr. Juri Jatskevich

Thomas is committed to mentoring our undergraduate students as they encounter technical challenges. Thomas works with students completing their final project (EECE 496). Thomas’s success can be seen in the success of our students. I am never surprised when I hear he has come by over the weekend to help students troubleshoot a problem.

Dr. André Ivanov, ECE Department Head