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Global Impact: IEEE Programs and the Collective Commitment to Advance Humanity
At IEEE, a public charity, advancing technology for the benefit of humanity is more than a mission statement; it’s a shared commitment that takes shape through the dedication of volunteers, the innovation of engineers and technologists, and the generosity of donors around the world. The 2024 IEEE Social Impact Report celebrates how this collective effort is building a better future for all.
Across the globe, IEEE programs empower communities, nurture the next generation of technologists and engineers, and drive sustainable solutions to real-world challenges. From advancing reliable energy access to inspiring students through hands-on STEM education, the initiatives highlighted in the report reflect the tangible outcomes made possible by the IEEE community.
Turning Generosity and Team Work into Global Impact
IEEE provides resources that inspire and enable IEEE members and volunteers around the world to carry out activities at local and global levels. As the philanthropic partner of IEEE, the Foundation inspires charitable investment to amplify the impact of IEEE programs. The IEEE Social Impact Report includes several program partners of the IEEE Foundation, highlighting the generosity of those who give their time, talent, and treasure. The activities of program partners of the IEEE Foundation are made possible by the generosity of our donors. We’d like to take a moment to spotlight a few donors who have recently made a big impact: Mei Lin Fung, Vickie Ozburn, and Muhummad and Fatema Rashid.
Driven by a deep belief that technology should empower and connect communities, Mei Lin Fung helped pioneer Customer Relationship Management (CRM) tools at Oracle and now brings that same vision to her work in artificial intelligence (AI). When asked why she supports IEEE and the IEEE Foundation, she explained that her philanthropy stems not from charity, but from stewardship. “Giving is a way to honor the lineage of teachers, parents, mentors, and communities that brought us here—and to ensure the next generation inherits systems of strength,” she shared.
Mei Lin’s commitment extends beyond her philanthropy. She volunteers widely across IEEE, serving as liaison to the IEEE Industry Engagement Committee for IEEE-USA, IEEE Humanitarian Technologies, and the IEEE Society on Social Implications of Technology (SSIT). Through this work, she has come to see IEEE as a “lighthouse”—an organization uniquely positioned to help humanity navigate how technology can advance dignity, equity, and sustainability. “To give back as an IEEE member is to join that lineage of stewardship,” Mei Lin reflected. “It is to be a lighthouse—spreading the light a little further, so that those who follow not only find safe passage, but are inspired to continue the handover.”
Starting as a volunteer even before joining as a member, IEEE Senior Member Vickie Ozburn has been a very active member of IEEE for nearly 20 years. Recently, she was on the 2024 Sections Congress Ad Hoc Committee investigating how IEEE can improve communication between the local section and the student branches. Her work led to this identified need to become a Member of the Geographic Activities Priority Project in 2025. She’s excited to see what will come from the recommendations.
“You really get more back than you give. When you help someone accomplish a goal or dream, the feeling you get goes beyond words,” explained Vickie. “Sharing your knowledge can make a big difference in another member’s journey.” She advised anyone looking to get involved in IEEE, “to find something you are passionate about and begin small.”
Dr. Muhammad Harunur Rashid’s boundless energy and passion for both power electronics and the IEEE Education Society (ES) have defined much of his career. Together with his wife, Dr. Fatema Rashid, he established the IEEE Power Electronics Society (PELS) Drs. Muhammad Harunur and Fatema Rashid Student Program—a new initiative designed to enhance student engagement at PELS conferences and foster stronger connections among students, faculty, and practicing engineers. This generous contribution reflects a long-standing commitment to education; the Rashids have previously funded awards and projects supporting engineering students at Florida Polytechnic University and the University of West Florida in the United States.
With this program, Dr. Rashid hoped to inspire a new generation of innovators in power electronics. “We need future leaders to continue generating innovative ideas that push the boundaries of what’s possible,” he shared. “The potential of power electronics is only as great as the creativity of those who work in it—and that’s why I wanted to support a program that helps spark the innovations we’ll need to go beyond today’s limits.”
Gratitude for a Shared Vision
To all who give so generously, thank you. Your commitment ensures that IEEE remains on mission – advancing technology for humanity.
To continue exceeding today’s limits, every gift to the IEEE Foundation, large or small, helps create ripples of positive change. Donations support the volunteer-led programs making an impact all over the globe. Together, we are demonstrating how philanthropy magnifies the reach and impact of IEEE’s efforts.
Continue the Journey
We invite you to explore the stories, data, and achievements in the 2024 IEEE Social Impact Report. And if you are inspired by what you see, we encourage you to join us in our mission to expand IEEE’s charitable work. Together, we can continue to build a better world through the power of innovation, collaboration, and generosity.
