2023–24 Trustees’ Award for Faculty Excellence

Henry Chen, professor of electrical engineering

Henry Chen, Ph.D., professor of electrical engineering at Wright State University, received the Trustees’ Award for Faculty Excellence for his excellent teaching abilities, extensive research and dedication to the College of Engineering and Computer Science.

Chen’s peers and students all commend him for his teaching abilities and dedication to his students. He teaches a variety of classes at all levels, ranging from undergraduate to doctoral-level research courses. He also volunteers at the Dayton Regional STEM School and educates students about electronic devices during its two-week STEM immersion program.

Yan Zhuang, Ph.D., chair of the Department of Electrical Engineering, said Chen shows incredibly positive qualities in his teaching.

“He exhibits qualities that distinguish a great teacher, total dedication to his teaching, continual vigilance of ways to incorporate emerging technologies and a personal concern for each student that motivates and inspires,” Zhuang said.

Chen’s students consistently give positive feedback, sharing that he is an effective teacher, a caring mentor and a dedicated advocate, regardless of class size or topic.

“As an educator, Dr. Chen stands out for his genuine care for the success of his students and his readiness to exceed expectations in assisting those who face challenges in his courses,” Zhuang said. “He dedicates himself to offering comprehensive support, within and beyond the classroom, to ensure his students’ success, even at the cost of his own time and energy.”

Chen has demonstrated dedication to the College of Engineering and Computer Science by serving on over a dozen committees, ranging from steering and strategic planning to dean and chair search committees.

Darryl Ahner, Ph.D., dean of the College of Engineering and Computer Science, said Chen’s commitment to the college shows just how passionate he is about his work.

“The diverse roles that Dr. Chen has consistently filled in professional service is a testament to his passion, dedication and professionalism as a faculty member of excellence in all regards,” Ahner said. “He has truly demonstrated a sustained and balanced contribution to the teaching, research and professional service mission of the university.”

Chen participates in interdisciplinary collaborations in ultra-wideband digital receiver development. He has successfully translated his research into practical applications, demonstrated by creating a cutting-edge real-time FPGA hardware prototype.

Chen also includes his students in his research, which Ahner said is a strategic approach to help future professionals in their field.

His research, which spans two book chapters, 45 journal articles and 81 conference papers, has greatly contributed to the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers. Actively involved in the professional community, he has contributed to over 11 conferences. Chen also serves on the editorial boards of journals like Chips and Integration, the VLSI Journal.

Chen previously won the Outstanding Faculty Award and the Faculty Excellence in Research Award from the College of Engineering and Computer Science and the Harrell V. Noble Award from the Dayton Section of the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers.

“Chen’s engagement with his professional community is significantly worthy,” Ahner said. “His professional service should be regarded as an example to be emulated by others.”