Michael Barber and Jacqueline Herd-Barber Scholarship
Scholarship Sponsored by National Action Council for Minorities in Engineering
The Michael Barber and Jacqueline Herd-Barber Scholarship is a tribute to the remarkable accomplishments of Dr. Michael Barber, an alumnus and Regent of the Milwaukee School of Engineering (MSOE). He was inducted into the National Academy of Engineering for his pioneering work in diagnostic imaging and global health innovation. His wife, Jacqueline Herd-Barber, also an MSOE alumna and community leader, shares his values of technical excellence, servant leadership, and a strong commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion, which were evident throughout his 40-year career at GE.
The scholarship is designed to honor high-performing students who are not only preparing for careers in engineering and technology but are also dedicated to shaping the future through leadership, innovation, and significant contributions to their communities and industries. The scholarship mirrors Dr. Barber's path from a student leader to a groundbreaking engineer and executive, aiming to inspire the upcoming generation of engineers who exhibit purposeful ambition, technical prowess, and a wish to create a lasting impact.
Selection of award recipients will be based on academic performance, leadership potential, and a clear vision for the future of engineering. Students majoring in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Biomedical Engineering, and related fields, especially those who identify as African American/Black and/or are studying at the Milwaukee School of Engineering, will be given special consideration.
Qualification Criteria
Applicants must fulfill the following basic requirements:
- Hold U.S. Citizenship or Permanent Residency
- Be a sophomore (2nd year) or junior (3rd year) in the 2025-2026 academic year
- Maintain a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0
- Be enrolled in any engineering discipline
- Special preference will be given to those majoring in:
- Electrical Engineering
- Computer Engineering
- Biomedical Engineering
- Electrical and Computer Engineering
- Additional preference may be given to:
- Applicants from the Milwaukee School of Engineering (MSOE)
- And other key criteria set by the donor
Application Procedure
At NACME, we believe that high-achieving students are not only preparing for careers in engineering and technology but are also shaping the future of innovation, leadership, and impact.
For Distinguished Leadership Scholarship Applicants:
- Complete the NACME Online Application
- Submit a leadership-focused essay (800-1,000 words total), responding to:
- What legacy do you hope to create through your work in engineering or technology?
- Describe a leadership experience that demonstrates your ability to take initiative, solve problems, or influence outcomes.
- What is one significant issue or opportunity in your field that you intend to address during your career? Why is it important, and what role do you envision yourself playing in addressing it?
- Submit one (1) Letter of Recommendation from a faculty member, mentor, or supervisor who can vouch for your academic achievement, leadership potential, and character.