Westcliff University honours wireless pioneers Marty Cooper and Arlene Harris at 2024 Commencement

Westcliff University held a memorable commencement ceremony on 7th June at OC Great Park Championship Stadium, honouring nearly 1,200 graduates. 

The event featured notable contributions from Marty Cooper and Arlene Harris, two pioneers in cellular phone and wireless technology.

The ceremony was highlighted by the surprise presentation of an honorary Doctorate of Technology to Marty Cooper, known as the "Father of the Cellphone." Cooper developed the first portable cellular phone, the DynaTAC, in the early 1970s. His work has significantly influenced the modern smartphone, revolutionising global communication. 

Cooper's entrepreneurial spirit has led to the founding of several successful companies and numerous accolades, including the Marconi Award and the Draper Prize in 2013 from the National Academy of Engineering.

Upon receiving his honorary doctorate, Cooper remarked:

“I am thrilled, honored and privileged to receive this honourary doctorate from Westcliff University… not only on my behalf but for the thousands of people who took my idea and turned it into the most valuable tool for collaboration in the history of mankind.”

The commencement also featured a keynote address from Arlene Harris, the "First Lady of Wireless." Harris, known for her innovations in wireless communications, including the first over-the-air remotely programmable wireless phones, shared her inspiring journey with the graduates. Harris's work has made wireless technology more accessible globally, especially in developing countries. Her advocacy for women in STEM fields has made her a role model for young women aspiring to enter the tech industry.

Harris encouraged the 2024 graduates in her speech, stating:

“You all have more tools to fix what’s broken and build new opportunities than ever before in history. I’d encourage you to use them toward purposeful contributions that fulfill you,”

In addition to celebrating the graduates, Westcliff University announced the launch of the Harris Cooper Scholarship. The scholarship, named after Arlene Harris and Marty Cooper, will be awarded annually to a woman with outstanding STEM academic or enterprise solutions achievements. It also honours Harris and Cooper for their impact on wireless technology and their commitment to supporting women in STEM.

Dr. Anthony Lee, president and CEO of Westcliff University, expressed his gratitude for having such distinguished figures at the ceremony:

"We are honoured to have Arlene Harris and Marty Cooper join us in celebrating our graduates. Their groundbreaking contributions to wireless technology serve as an inspiration to our students as they set out on their own journeys of innovation and impact."