National engineering society recognizes MSU student

Contact: Bob Ratliff

A Mississippi State University senior is receiving one of the first scholarships presented by a national professional engineering organization.

Kevin R. Patterson, a computer engineering major from Dothan, Ala., is a 2000 selection for a $1,000 Theta Tau Educational Foundation Scholarship.

Theta Tau is a national professional engineering fraternity. Founded in 1904, it is the oldest and largest such body in the field of engineering.

In its inaugural year, the Theta Tau Foundation is making only two $1,000 awards and one $3,000 award. Funded by Chicago-based Newark Electronics, the scholarships recognize academic achievement, leadership in campus and community activities and development of professional and personal goals.

Patterson is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Raymond L. Patterson and a 1996 Northview High School graduate. He is a President's Scholar and Hearin-Hess Engineering Scholar. In the campus Theta Tau chapter, he has served as vice regent and social chairman. He also is a member of the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers chapter at MSU.

Newark Electronics is North America's largest small-order, high-service distributor of electronic components.