Dr. Ronald B. Cox, Burkett Miller Chair of Excellence and Professor of Engineering Management and Technology passed away on January 12.
For over four decades, Dr. Cox ably served this College, the University, the extended community, and his chosen profession, with dedication and distinction. Known in our community and across the nation for his visionary leadership in the fields of engineering, engineering technology, and management, Dr. Cox was a recognized figure for his service as a community volunteer and advocate for excellence in higher education. Soon after this University put on its new name as the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga, he was hired to support the vision for and establishment of a College of Engineering. From 1979-1996, Dr. Cox served as Dean of the College and led its efforts to expand curricula, develop new programs, incorporate Computer Science as an integral component of the College, and extend the College’s community and regional partnerships in STEM education and applied research. During that key period of the College’s growth, he continued its strong commitment to excellence in teaching, and the importance of the College as an economic and workforce engine for the community.
In his illustrious career, Dr. Cox served as Chief Operating Officer and Director for the U.S. Department of Transportation, the Chair of the Board of Trustees of the Tennessee Engineering Foundation, Chairman and Founder of the International Engineering and Management Corporation, National President of the American Society for Engineering Management, Chairman of the National Issues Management Board, and Chairman of the Third District of Tennessee Congressional Campaign. He served as a member of numerous corporate, state, and professional society boards including the Tennessee Engineering Foundation, the University of Tennessee/Saturn Corporation, EMI Corporation, Integrated Voice Solutions, Inc., NOBIC Corporation, and the American Society of Mechanical Engineers.
Dr. Cox’s well-deserved awards and distinctions are many, and include receipt of the 2016 Bernard Sarchet Award, the pre-eminent recognition for service to the discipline of Engineering Management; naming as a White House Fellow Finalist; Chattanooga Engineers Club Engineer of the Decade, and selection as a Paul Harris Fellow by Rotary International.
Dr. Cox will be greatly missed by all whose lives he touched. Your thoughts for Ron’s wife, Nancy, their children and grandchildren, and many friends are greatly appreciated.
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