Cirrus Logic, a premier supplier of high performance, low-power integrated circuits (IC) for audio and voice signal processing applications, recruits and hires more graduates of NC State University than any other school. Electrical and Computer Engineering alumnus Dr. Jason Rhode (M.S. ’93 and Ph.D. ’95), president and chief executive officer of Cirrus Logic, firmly believes that the quality engineering curriculum offered in the ECE department perfectly aligns with the company’s strategy to hire the best and brightest students to design today’s latest innovative audio ICs. Thanks to an unyielding commitment and strong partnership with the academic community in the department, Cirrus Logic has created a Distinguished Professorship and Term Professorship with a total investment of $708,106.
Utilizing the Distinguished Professors Endowment Trust Fund, which was established in 1985 by the North Carolina General Assembly, the goal is to receive the state match of $334,000 to then establish a $1,000,000 distinguished professorship. This critical endowment fund will help to recruit and retain outstanding faculty members in the department. In an effort to achieve impact rapidly, the Cirrus Logic Term Professorship will be awarded immediately to a deserving faculty member.
Additionally, Cirrus Logic’s passion for student engagement inspired the creation of the Cirrus Logic Michael L. Hackworth Design Fellowship Program in 2013, which provides an award of $80,000 over two years and an internship opportunity to ECE students interested in mixed signal circuit design. In 2015, Cirrus Logic made a $100,000 commitment for discretionary support to provide the department with the resources needed to have optimal flexibility and respond to opportunities and challenges quickly. Cirrus Logic continues to make an indelible imprint in the department and on campus through its generosity, presence and engagement with students and faculty members. In fall 2016, Cirrus Logic will be a corporate participant in the ECE Senior Design program, sponsor a concert for ECE students and participate in the College of Engineering’s Career Fair.