Head of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science Honored by Alma Mater

Austin Cook

Jia Di holding the Alumni Excellence Award.

Jia Di, department head for the Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, was named a recipient of the Alumni Excellence Award by the University of Central Florida's College of Engineering and Computer Science.

The award recognizes alumni who demonstrate exceptional achievement in areas including community involvement, university engagement and an ongoing commitment to University of Central Florida. Di, who earned his Ph.D. in electrical engineering from UCF in 2004, was honored for his distinguished academic career, mentorship and lifelong dedication to education and innovation.

"I feel extremely humbled and, of course, honored to receive this award," Di said. "There are many other alumni who are just as worthy, and I am very thankful that UCF has chosen to honor my accomplishments. Every time I've returned to UCF over the years, I've been impressed by its growth and commitment to excellence."

Kim Needy, dean of the College of Engineering, praised Di's achievement, saying, "An honor from your alma mater is particularly special. Congratulations to Dr. Di for this recognition, one that is so richly deserved!"

Today, Di leads a major research lab focused on asynchronous integrated circuit design. His lab currently supports more than 20 graduate and undergraduate students. Many of his former students have gone on to work across the country in industry and academia. Di said that his motivation has always been rooted in helping students succeed.

"Arkansas has many first-generation college students who are smart and hardworking. All they need is guidance and support," he said. "The most rewarding moment for me is when their families come up during commencement, sometimes in tears, to thank me. That's when I know I'm doing something meaningful."

Di has maintained a strong connection to UCF over the years, returning to campus multiple times and following its growth. Di credits UCF with providing the foundation for his academic and professional career.