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The Power of Friendship: Celebrating Connections within IEEE
IEEE is renowned for nurturing technological innovation and bringing together professionals and researchers who collaborate and share their knowledge. With more than 2000 IEEE-sponsored conferences each year, there are countless opportunities to network and connect. Yet, beyond professional ties, IEEE fosters strong friendships that truly enrich our lives.
In honor of the International Day of Friendship, the IEEE Foundation is shining a light on the wonderful bonds forged within the IEEE community. Below, you’ll find heartfelt stories shared by IEEE Foundation Directors that beautifully illustrate the lasting connections they have built through their involvement with this remarkable organization and the profound impact of these friendships.
John McDonald, IEEE Foundation Vice President, Development: A Journey of Collaboration and Friendship:
I have been a Distinguished Lecturer for the IEEE Power & Energy Society (PES) since 1999. My first trip to India was in December 2003, where I conducted a two-day course on Substation Automation at Jamia Millia Islamia (JMI) University in New Delhi for Professor Mini Thomas. This experience was remarkable as it marked my first encounter with a Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) system laboratory at a university. It was also the first time I met Professor Mini Thomas and her family. From that point on, I travelled to New Delhi many times, and Mini made many trips to the USA. Through those trips, our families formed a strong bond.
In 2012, Mini and I collaborated on our first book proposal, “Power System SCADA and Smart Grids, ” which was accepted by CRC Press. Writing this book was a focused effort that spanned several years and included numerous in-person review sessions at IEEE PES General Meetings. We proudly held our published book for the first time at the 2015 IEEE PES General Meeting in Denver, CO, USA!
Today, Mini and I are working on the second edition of our book. What started as a professional trip with IEEE has blossomed into a close friendship that has lasted over 22 years, connecting Mini, me, and our two families despite being separated by thousands of miles. IEEE brought us together!
Of course, during a visit to my home in Atlanta, GA, USA, Mini made sure to get a photo with IEEE Foundation Chief Canine Bruno!
Jerry Hudgins, IEEE Foundation Vice President, Programs: A Lifelong Bond Forged through IEEE:
I first met Dean Patterson, an Australian native, in Toledo, Spain, at an IEEE conference in 1992. The following year, in Charleston, SC, USA, we had the opportunity to meet again during a planning meeting for the IEEE Power Electronics Society. Dean extended his visit by a few days to spend time with me at the university in Columbia, SC, USA. We had lunch together, marking the beginning of a multi-decade friendship and collaboration.
Over the years, Dean and I became close friends and colleagues in the field of power electronics and IEEE activities. Our relationship grew to the point where Dean joined me at the University of South Carolina in the late 1990s. By 2004, I had transitioned to the University of Nebraska, and Dean followed me there by the fall semester.
Together, we developed the energy systems curriculum for the Electrical and Computer Engineering Department and launched a successful research program in power electronics and electric machines. Additionally, we continued our dedicated service to IEEE. The collaboration and friendship that Dean and I have shared over the years are a testament to our mutual interests in IEEE and demonstrate the positive impact the organization can have on one’s career and life. A shared enjoyment of beer has certainly strengthened our bond as well!
Saurabh Sinha. IEEE Foundation Director: A Mentor and Friend:
When I reflect on my journey within IEEE, Moshe Kam stands out not only as a leader and mentor but as a true friend. Over the years, he has offered wise counsel, unwavering support, and sometimes the kind of frank honesty that only a real friend can give. Whether navigating strategic questions, professional dilemmas, or even personal uncertainties, Moshe has been someone I could turn to—reliably, thoughtfully, and with genuine care.
While Moshe holds a special place in this journey, I am also fortunate to be surrounded by many others across IEEE whom I consider friends. In fact, one of the unique qualities of IEEE is how it fosters a community of FRIENDS—those who Foster Respect, Inspire Engagement, Encourage New Directions, and Support each other in ways that go far beyond the professional. IEEE, at its best, brings together people who walk alongside you—not just in technical advancement, but in life.
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These stories remind us of the valuable friendships that flourish within the IEEE community. These friendships enrich our lives by providing support, fostering collaboration, and sharing common interests that can endure for many years. This International Day of Friendship, let’s celebrate not only our professional relationships but also the deeper bonds that make IEEE a unique and vibrant community. Here’s to forming more friendships through shared passions and experiences! If you have a story about a friendship created through IEEE, please let us know at donate@ieee.org.
