Michael Barber and Jacqueline Herd-Barber Scholarship

The Michael Barber and Jacqueline Herd-Barber Scholarship recognizes the cornerstone achievements of Dr. Michael Barber, a Milwaukee School of Engineering (MSOE) alumnus and Regent, who was elected to the National Academy of Engineering for his visionary contributions in diagnostic imaging and global health innovation. His over 40-year career at GE exemplified technical excellence, servant leadership, and a deep commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion—values shared by his wife, Jacqueline Herd-Barber, a fellow MSOE alum and civic leader.

This scholarship recognizes high-achieving students who are not only pursuing careers in engineering and technology but are also committed to shaping the future through leadership, innovation, and meaningful impact in their communities and industries. Reflecting Dr. Barber’s journey from student leader to trailblazing engineer and executive, the scholarship aims to uplift the next generation of engineers who demonstrate purpose-driven ambition, technical acumen, and a desire to leave a lasting legacy.

Award recipients will be selected based on academic merit, leadership potential, and clarity of vision in shaping the future through engineering. Special consideration will be given to students majoring in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Biomedical Engineering, and related disciplines, particularly those who identify as African American/Black and/or are enrolled at the Milwaukee School of Engineering.

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must meet the following minimum requirements:

• Be a U.S. Citizen or Permanent Resident
• Be enrolled as 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 an engineering discipline (any)
• Special consideration for those majoring in:
• Electrical Engineering
• Computer Engineering
• Biomedical Engineering
• Electrical and Computer Engineering
• Additional consideration may be given to:
• Applicants attending the Milwaukee School of Engineering (MSOE)
• And other key criteria set by the donor

Application Process

At NACME, we believe that high-achieving students are not only preparing for careers in engineering and technology they are also shaping the future of innovation, leadership, and impact.

For Distinguished Leadership Scholarship Applicants:

1. Complete the NACME Online Application
2. Submit a leadership-focused essay (800 1,000 words total), responding to:
   • What legacy do you hope to build 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 does it matter, and what role do you see yourself playing in addressing it?
3. Submit one (1) Letter of Recommendation from a faculty member, mentor, or supervisor who can speak to your academic achievement, leadership potential, and character.