Background

The George W. Laird Merit Fellowship is given to honor the memory of George W. Laird. He obtained an A.B. degree at Hamilton College in 1964. He then attended the University of Delaware, where he was awarded a B.M.E. degree with highest honors in 1968 and an M.M.A.E. degree in 1971. On September 6, 1977, at the age of thirty-five, George W. Laird was killed in a tragic accident.

Determined that something positive should come from this seemingly senseless loss, his family and friends established a fund to support a major fellowship, based on merit, that will provide a source of strong motivation to students working toward graduate degrees in the College of Engineering. The generous support of more than 300 donors has made this award possible.

diverse & interesting engineers

It is a pleasure to congratulate the Laird Fellows on the occasion of the 25th anniversary of the program. The nature and purpose of the Laird Fellowship is unusual and is perhaps unique to Delaware. The selection process sets aside the traditional measures of academic excellence, and instead provides a generous fellowship to allow a student with abilities possibly outside the academic mainstream a chance to explore and grow.

It is perhaps not surprising that the human qualities that enable a winner of this Fellowship are also the harbinger of a successful career, and indeed the individual stories here provide views of diverse and interesting engineers.

While this book is about the Fellowship and those who have earned it, it is important to realize and appreciate its

source. While its roots draw from the tragedy of an accidental end of a young life full of energy and promise, it represents the hope of his family and friends for the future. They provided for George Laird a living memorial that will continue to reach and affect generations of students. That memorial and the philanthropic spirit it represents are greatly appreciated by all in the College of Engineering.

Sincerely,

Eric W. Kaler
Former Dean, College of Engineering
University of Delaware

2024-2025 dates to remember

DEC

Application Process Begins

Will be announced by your Department Chairs.

FEB 1

Application Materials Due

Application materials are due to
your Department Chair.

MAR 15

Finalist Candidate Selections

Finalist selections are made, successful candidates are notified.

APR 13

Formal Reception Held

Finalist candidates join Laird Selection Committee and participants for a formal reception in Wilmington.

APR 14

Candidate Interviews

Will be announced by your Department Chairs.

APR 14

New Laird Fellow Announced

The new Laird Fellow will be announced once a decision has been made.

MAY 3

Award Presentation

The Laird Fellowship award will be presented during Honors Day.