Courtesy of University Communications
The University announced that Former Secretary of Energy Steven Chu, ’70 will speak at the class of 2013 commencement in May.
Chu graduated with bachelor’s degrees in mathematics and physics as well as an honorary doctorate of science in 1998.
At the commencement ceremony, Chu will receive the George Eastman Medal, recognizing his outstanding achievements and his dedicated service.
Chu was appointed energy secretary in 2008 by Barack Obama, however he has recently decided to step down to return to academia.
Chu served as the keynote speaker for the 2009 Meliora weekend address, urging the UR community of the importance of climate change awareness. He also headed a panel about international climate and energy at the 2006 Meliora weekend.
Chu was the co-recipient of a 1997 Nobel Prize for his role in developing methods to trap and cool atoms with laser light.
Dean of the College Richard Feldman commented on the selection: “His distinguished career is uniquely marked by both groundbreaking research and national leadership that has put us on a path forward toward sustainable energy. As an engaged alumnus of the College, he continues to be an inspiration to our students and community.”
Smith is a member of the class of 2014.
