FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
DATE: January 15, 2009
CONTACT: Masarah Van Eyck, (608) 262-5590, mvaneyck2@international.wisc.edu
Madison — City University London will award University of Wisconsin–Madison professor of mechanical engineering Patrick Farrell with an honorary degree [DSc (h.c.)] later this month in recognition of his long-standing contributions to research and education in the field of mechanical engineering.
Farrell, former provost of UW–Madison, will accept the award from the Vice-Chancellor and President of City University London, Professor Malcolm Gillies, following the recommendation of Constantine (Dinos) Arcoumanis FREng, deputy vice chancellor (Research and International) and professor of mechanical engineering. The ceremony will take place on January 26, 2009 at the Mansion House, the residence of the Lord Mayor of London who is also chancellor of City University London.
Farrell’s research, which focuses on developing and applying diagnostics for measurements around internal combustion engines, has proven increasingly relevant with time. Fundamental to his research is reducing emissions and improving fuel economy in machines, including cars, which employ internal combustion engines.
Farrell and Arcoumanis have performed parallel research in reciprocating engines over the last 25 years.
“Professor Farrell has made a very important contribution to the understanding of the flow, combustion and exhaust emissions in reciprocating engines through carefully designed and executed experiments using advanced laser and optical diagnostics,” Arcoumanis said. “Combined with his numerous contributions to the teaching and scholarship of engineering at the undergraduate and graduate level and his efforts to promote international and cultural scientific exchanges, he is fully deserving of the award of an honorary doctorate of science.”
Farrell served as provost and vice chancellor for academic affairs from 2006 through late 2008. He has been a member of UW–Madison’s mechanical engineering faculty since 1982 and served as director of the Engine Research Center from 1999-2001. Beginning in 2001, Farrell became the College of Engineering associate dean for academic affairs. He was named executive associate dean in 2005. A dedicated teacher, Farrell was part of the original team that developed an innovative, hands-on design course for freshman engineers; he is a fellow of the UW-Madison Teaching Academy.
While at City University London in 2007 to present the keynote address at a conference, Farrell sought to expand international educational opportunities for students in Madison by signing a memorandum of understanding with the then-president of City University London, professor David Rhind FRS. As a result, UW–Madison engineering students may now spend a semester or year abroad earning engineering credits at City University London. They also earn a certificate in international engineering from UW–Madison’s College of Engineering.
“The [City University London engineering] program offers students the kind of cutting-edge, global experiences they will need in today’s professional climate,” said Gilles Bousquet, dean of the Division of International Studies, who helped establish the relationship with City University. “We aim to provide all students with the global competence they will need to be leaders in their fields.”
While in London, Farrell will also attend an alumni event hosted by the Wisconsin Alumni Association and the Division of International Studies, and meet with members of the Division of International Studies’ advisory board.
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