Bruce G. Wheeler Memorial Endowed Scholarship

Purpose:
The Fund is established to provide scholarships to students pursuing an electrical engineering degree (or the equivalent of this degree as technology changes).

Bruce George Wheeler of Auburn, California, passed away in June 2025 at the age of 79. Born on March 21, 1946, in Freeport, New York, Bruce was the middle son of Leonard and Dorothy “Ducky” Wheeler, growing up in Massapequa, Long Island, with his brothers Russell and Roger. The three shared countless adventures on and under the saltwater, sparking Bruce’s lifelong love of the outdoors. He was happiest skiing—snow in winter, water in summer—pursuits he mastered with skill and passion.

After high school, Bruce attended Lehigh University, earning a master’s degree in electrical engineering. During this time, he discovered what would become his lifelong profession: computer programming. In 1968, Bruce moved west to California and began a distinguished 30-year career at Hewlett-Packard as a computer programmer, where his technical expertise and innovative spirit thrived.

Bruce combined intellect with craftsmanship, designing and building his own home near Silicon Valley and later constructing a second home in Auburn after transferring to HP’s Roseville office. Auburn became his permanent residence, where he enjoyed the beauty of Northern California. Bruce was known for his calm, gentle nature, generosity, and practical approach to life. He was a loyal friend, a devoted son and brother, and a man admired for his integrity and kindness.

This scholarship ensures Bruce’s dedication to engineering, and innovation continues to inspire future generations of Electrical Engineering students.

Criteria:
The scholarship recipient shall:
• Be meeting the University’s Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) requirements and cannot be in default or owe any refund/repayment of federal, state or institutional aid.
• Have financial need as determined by FAFSA/CASFA and the University’s Office of Financial Aid and Scholarships.
• Be pursuing a degree in electrical engineering (or the equivalent of this degree as technology changes).
• Have a minimum cumulative grade point average of 2.5 or a high school grade point average of 2.5.
• Complete a 500-word essay that addresses the following: How has your family or culture shaped your character and dreams to pursue a career in electrical engineering?

This scholarship is automatically renewable for current recipients, provided they continue to meet all awarding criteria.

Insofar as funds are available, one student is to be awarded as close to a full scholarship as possible, per academic year.

Excess funds may be used to support additional students as close to a full scholarship as possible, per academic year.