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MGA News - April 2020

 

A Letter to IEEE Volunteers

Dear Fellow Volunteers,

 

I hope this message finds you well. We understand that the effects of COVID-19 are affecting many people across the globe both professionally and personally.

 

Below is a communication about IEEE travel restrictions, airline refunds and reimbursement procedures.  Please comply with the restrictions included in the message from IEEE Treasurer, Joe Lillie.IEEE is actively monitoring all upcoming meetings and events.  Information about Sections Congress 2020 will be communicated when any decisions have been made. 

 

If you have any questions, please contact Larry Bolsch, MGA Finance, at l.bolsch@ieee.org or Christie Giambalvo, MGA Geographic Activities at c.giambalvo@ieee.org.

 

Please stay safe and well.

 

Sincerely,

Mary Ellen

MGA Treasurer

Communication from IEEE Treasurer, Joe Lillie

Due to the travel restrictions resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic, IEEE requests that volunteers defer purchasing airline tickets for IEEE travel until further notice. For those of you who have already purchased airline tickets for IEEE activities and will not be traveling due to COVID-19, most airlines will be providing refunds or credits against future travel. Please contact your airline as soon as possible to discuss refunds and credits. These discussions need to occur prior to the date of travel. If credits are issued, the credits should be used for future IEEE travel.

If you have recently traveled and have not yet submitted your expense reimbursement request, please do so using normal procedures.  If you have submitted an expense reimbursement request and have not yet received the reimbursement, you should expect reimbursement within the normal time period.

Further communication will be sent when normal travel plans can be resumed.

Stay safe and follow all local and national recommendations relative to the virus.

Thanks for your assistance and understanding in these difficult times.

Joe Lillie

IEEE Treasurer

Cancelling of Face to Face Gatherings

Following the message from IEEE President Toshio Fokuda and IEEE Executive Director Stephen Welby, we have asked all of our geographic units to cancel all face to face gatherings due to the COVID-19 Pandemic and instead maximize the use of our online and virtual alternatives. 


Member and Geographic Activities (MGA) has been working with our geographic units worldwide to utilize tools such as eNotice, EWH and Collabratec to keep members informed and to utilize WebEx and Google Hangouts Meet for larger virtual events or Google Hangouts Classic for smaller meetings.  


 



COVID-19 MGA Volunteer Resources 

Listed below you can find the various resources available to MGA Volunteers throughout the IEEE organization.

 


                                                             New IEEE COVID-19 News & Resources Hub Launched

IEEE has established a single platform for all #COVID19 related resources to support our members during the pandemic.

Access the latest virtual educational opportunities, free e-books, virtual networking, and more in one place by visiting: https://covid19.ieee.org/


     Hosting an online Webex Event and looking for an attendee user guide? 

Check out the below user guide to share with your attendees!

https://mga.ieee.org/images/files/training/user_guides/Participating_in_a_Virtual_Event.pdf


A great alternate to Webex included with your IEEE.org email account!

 

While MGA continues to provide WebEx support for IEEE Sections, we want to make you

aware of the phenomenal updates Google has made to its web conferencing product.

Originally Google Hangouts, they now offer an advanced option and have renamed it Google Meet.

We have been using Google Meet with great success.  And, it comes with your IEEE.org email account. There is no charge for using this service.

Here is a list of features for Google Meet:

- Supports 250 attendees

- Provides computer and phone for audio

- The host can present, including high quality video and audio*

- See up to 16 Google Meet participants at once with tiled layout*

- The host can mute and unmute lines

- Meetings can be recorded

- Attendees do not need gmail accounts.  

Find out more at: http://meet.google.com. or send us an email at mga-im@ieee.org

This is a great alternative and everyone with an ieee.org account has access.  
 


Center for Leadership Excellence

 

https://ieee-elearning.org/CLE/

The Center for Leadership Excellence (CLE) offers a ‘one stop’ training solution designed to serve the multiple and diverse range of IEEE user communities. From volunteers, non-volunteers to students, members, and conference organizers, the site offers a simpler and effective learning experience.


 

Familiarize yourself with all of the tools and resources available to volunteers!

 

vtools.ieee.org


IEEE Collabratec: Virtual Workspaces

 

IEEE Collabratec provides engineers with virtual workspaces where they can create, organize,

and share ideas on projects with one another for free as they shift to remote work environments.

 

Users have created several workspaces on COVID-19 research, policies, and ideas with a specific technical focus. One is COVID19 Broadband Use Cases where discussions are taking place about how to fix the weaknesses found in broadband networks as a result of the increased use of the Internet. Participants can also explore designs of inexpensive and easily manufactured ventilators in the COVID19 Mechanical Ventilators workspace.

 

Here’s how to get started:

 

  • Step 2: Create a workspace: Within IEEE Collabratec, navigate to the workspaces option at the top of the page and select the green “+Create New” button on the right-hand side. 
  • Step 3: Start collaborating. Once you have created your workspace and invited your colleagues, you can collaborate on files, make posts, create events, or start a video conference on Google Hangouts.

To share and collaborate on files, all participants in your workspace need to attach the same storage provider such as Box, DropBox, or Google Drive.

Learn more about IEEE Collabratec workspaces by visiting the User Guide or visit the IEEE Collabratec Users Forum.


Continuing Education Courses at Your Fingertips as You Work from Home

The IEEE Learning Network (ILN) gives members easy access to online learning content from across IEEE, all in one place. Browse hundreds of courses on core and emerging technologies, leadership skills, and more. Check out this week’s selection of courses that active IEEE members can access for just US$10.


https://bit.ly/33OdjtU 


IEEE Educational Activities Webinars

Check out the latest free virtual events from IEEE Educational Activities you can watch at home.

Engage with industry experts and innovators on the latest advancements in technology and engineering, STEM education, and more. 


https://bit.ly/2JfcVen 



Free On-Demand Webinar - Using eLearning to Support Distance Learning

As you plan to adapt your engineering and computer science curriculum for a distance learning environment, eLearning courses can be a valuable tool to supplement instruction and engage students.  In this free webinar from IEEE, Dr. Timothy Kurzweg, director of the School of Engineering at Penn State Behrend and professor of electrical and computer engineering, Dr. Russ Meier, Professor of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science at the Milwaukee School of Engineering, and Jennifer Fong, Director of Education Product, Sales, and Marketing at IEEE will share techniques that can help you supplement your curriculum and keep students learning.

https://bit.ly/33LuRaa

 


                                             Free On-Demand Webinar - Tips on Engineering eLearning for Pre-University Students

As pre-university schools close, teachers are looking for options to transition their curriculums to home learning.

Watch this free webinar to get TryEngineering team members will discuss the resources available and provide tips

and tricks educators can use to teach Engineering concepts remotely and engage students learning from home.   

https://bit.ly/2Jgg9yn



 

        2020 IEEE Sections Congress

New opportunities to engage and network in Ottawa, Canada in August!

“Leading our Global Technical Community” is the theme of the 2020 IEEE Sections Congress,

which is scheduled to take place from 21 to 23 August in Ottawa, Canada.

IEEE Sections Congress is the triennial flagship event hosted by IEEE that brings together leaders from our 430,000 members in 165 countries,

including technical professionals, corporate leaders, key contributors, entrepreneurs, and academic leaders, to learn about IEEE products and programs.

The congress is sponsored by the IEEE Member and Geographic Activities Board, with engagement from various

IEEE OU’s including IEEE Technical Activities (TA), Educational Activities (EA), the Foundation, Corporate Activities and more.

Sections Congress is our opportunity to educate Section leaders on the activities that we lead across IEEE.

In addition to access to a large exhibit hall, participants will attend session topics spanning three tracks:

 

Why We Lead - To Advance Technology for the Benefit of Humanity

Where We Lead - In Fostering Professional Networks and Engaging Technical Communities

How We Lead - By Developing Organizational Knowledge and Leadership Skills 

After Sections Congress, Section leaders will be able to apply what they have learned by introducing new programs and initiatives in their local areas, and bringing back information about your Sections to their local members. 

Registration is now open.  However, due to the travel restrictions resulting from COVID-19 pandemic,

IEEE requests that volunteers defer purchasing airline tickets from IEEE travel until further notice.

 

Should you have any questions, please contact SC-information@ieee.org.

Stay safe and follow all local and national recommendations relative to the virus. Thank you for your assistance and understanding in these difficult times.

Visit the Sections Congress website for more information.



MGA Awards 

2020 awards flyer

 

Each year, the MGA Outstanding Section Awards  are presented to one large, one medium, and one small Section (across all Regions), to recognize their excellent work and successful efforts in fulfilling the educational and scientific goals of IEEE for the benefit of the public.  The recipient Sections are acknowledged for maintaining, enhancing, and supporting the Student Branches, Technical Chapters, and Affinity Groups within their geographic boundaries.

 

Three awards are presented, as follows:

  • Large Section = 1,501 or more members (including Students) as of 31 December of the prior year;
  • Medium Section = 501-1,500 members (including Students) as of 31 December of the prior year;
  • Small Section = 500 or fewer members (including Students) as of 31 December of the prior year;

To nominate your Section for the MGA Outstanding Large, Medium, or Small Section Award, please go to https://ieee.secure-platform.com/a/solicitations/318/home.  Follow the links provided to review the selection criteria.

The deadline for submissions is 15 May 2020.  Recipients will be announced in July 2020.  

 

Every three years, the MGA William W. Middleton Distinguished Service Award is presented to an individual, who over a long and sustained period of leadership, contributed in an exemplary manner to the IEEE Member and Geographic Activities (MGA) Board, its activities and achievements, and the attainment of its goals and objectives. Selection criteria, the nomination form, and more information on the MGA awards process are available.

The deadline for nominations is 15 May 2020 (for completed nomination form and two letters of endorsement).

https://mga.ieee.org/awards/mga-awards-and-recognition-program/mga-william-w-middleton-distinguished-service-award

IEEE MGA
mga-awards@ieee.org

 



 

Celebrating Brilliant Minds and a Bright Future!

IEEE Educational Activities Board (EAB) Awards  recognize and honor major contributions to engineering and technical education. Awards are given for meritorious activities in accreditation, continuing education, educational innovation, pre-university education, service to the IEEE EAB, employee professional development, informal education systems, and related achievements that advance the practice of engineering and of engineering education.  

You know deserving individuals.  Who will you nominate?

Award nominations, as well as applications for the Charles LeGeyt Fortescue Scholarship and the IEEE Life Members Graduate Study Fellowship in Electrical Engineering, are accepted through 4 May 2020.



2020-2025 IEEE Strategic Plan

The IEEE Strategic Plan 2020-2025 focuses on innovation through collaboration, with five key goals for the organization. Together with IEEE's steadfast mission, vision, and core values—the plan will guide the organization's priorities.

"Strategic planning is critical because it provides us with forward-looking goals and sense of direction" said 2020 IEEE President and CEO Toshio Fukuda. "This plan will help guide us and communicate our shared goals across IEEE."

To gain input from stakeholders for the Strategic Plan, IEEE conducted surveys with IEEE members, volunteer leaders, and the IEEE Management Council. Qualitative, in-person focus groups were conducted around the world in order to identify the goals of IEEE as a member-focused global organization.

Delivering on this plan, IEEE will foster a collaborative environment that is open, inclusive, and free of bias and will continue to sustain the strength, reach, and vitality of our organization for future generations.

The five new goals state that IEEE will:

  • Drive global innovation through broad collaboration and the sharing of knowledge
  • Enhance public understanding of engineering and technology and pursue standards for their practical application
  • Be a trusted source of educational service and resources to support life-long learning
  • Provide opportunities for career and professional development
  • Inspire a worldwide audience by building communities that advance technical interest, inform public policy, and expand knowledge for the benefit of humanity

For more information, visit www.ieee.org/strategic-plan

ieee strategic plan 2020 2025



IEEE HAC & SIGHT Funding Opportunities


The IEEE Humanitarian Activities Committee (HAC) provides a suite of resources that inspire and enable IEEE volunteers around the world to carry out and support impactful humanitarian technology and sustainable development activities at the local level. HAC focuses on raising awareness, providing training, supporting and evaluating projects, and cultivating relationships within the global sustainable development community.

IEEE HAC and IEEE SIGHT have published their Calls for Proposals for Events, the Conference Participation Program (CPP), and both HAC & SIGHT Projects. Ready to apply? Create an account on the online funding portal to submit a proposal for any of the programs. Deadlines for submission and requirements vary by funding type, so please review the individual Calls for Proposals on the HAC website

 



Privacy and Security 2020

Scenes of our Cyber Lives: The Security Threats and Technology Solutions Protecting Us

 

Summary of the campaign:

The visuals follow the daily lives of an average family and the possible threats that may occur. It also includes insights from our IEEE Impact Creators.

 

URL to the IEEE Transmitter: https://transmitter.ieee.org/impact/privacy-and-security-2020/

 



IEEE Members in the News

Air Travelers Can't See All of It, but More Tech Is Moving Them Along


The New York Times
February 25, 2020
Web Link - https://www.nytimes.com/2020/02/25/business/artificial-intelligence-airports.html

 IEEE Fellow Karen Panetta discusses how sensor and thermal image technology can give maintenance crews advanced notice for damages on airplanes.



2-Step Verification

Your GoogleApps@IEEE account can now be enabled for 2-Step verification (2SV). This added layer of security will help to protect your account from unauthorized access.

What is 2-Step Verification?

2SV is a process that requires two steps to access your account. You must:

1.    Verify who you are through a password (something you know)

2.    Receive an access code delivered to a device (something you have)

Learn more about 2SV or enable 2SV for your account today.



Countdown to the 2020 IEEE Annual Election

The ballot includes IEEE president-elect candidates, IEEE Technical Activities members-at-large, and IEEE-USA president-elect.

IEEE Medal of Honor Goes to Transistor Pioneer Chenming Hu

The Life Fellow brought transistors into the third dimension.

Ray Liu and S.K. Ramesh Run for 2021 IEEE President-Elect

The candidate elected will serve as president in 2022.



2020 IEEE Educational Activities Awards - Accepting Nominations

Nominations for the 2020 IEEE Educational Activities Board (EAB) Awards and the 2020 IEEE-Eta Kappa Nu (IEEE-HKN) Awards are now open!

These awards recognize and honor major contributions to engineering and technical education. Nominations are accepted through 4 May 2020.


https://ieee.secure-platform.com/a/page/major_board_awards/Educational_Activities 



IEEE REACH: Raising Engineering Awareness through the Conduit of History

IEEE REACH (reach.ieee.org) is an award-winning set of educational resources that brings to life the impact engineering and technology have on humanity. Each unit is a pre-packaged, classroom-ready experience organized around a Compelling Question, designed to inspire curiosity and promote discussion. Originally designed for teachers, IEEE REACH is also a great resource for parents now being tasked with homeschooling during these unprecedented times. 

You will find inquiry units on electronic music, electric lighting, drones and many other engaging topics, along with excellent hands-on activities, as well as multimedia and online resources that will educate and delight students. Plus, it is free and ad-free thanks to the IEEE History Center and its supporters. Share this valuable resource with a friend or colleague today!

IEEE REACH reaches Region 9

Last month IEEE Region 9 volunteers learned about the REACH program at their face to face meeting in Peru, thanks to the support of the Region’s Educational Activities Committee members, seen below with President Toshio Fukuda and EAB Managing Director Jamie Moesch.

r9 REACH

 

IEEE volunteers who also wish to help spread the word about the REACH program

please contact Kelly McKenna (k.mckenna@ieee.org) to receive more information.