Alumni Derrick Kuzak '73, '74, '76, and Michael J. Rokosz '70, were named Alumni of the Year by the College of Engineering & Science in recognition of their contributions to engineering and science. The award recipients were honored at the 77th Annual Slide Rule Dinner Dance, March 28 at the Detroit Cobo Conference Center.

At the 2009 Slide Rule event, from left: Dean of the College of Engineering & Science Leo Hanifin, Rokosz, Kuzak and UDM President Gerard L. Stockhausen, S.J.

Kuzak, the 2009 Engineering Alumnus, earned his bachelor and master's degrees in Electrical Engineering as well as his doctoral degree in Systems Engineering from the University. He began his career in 1978 at Ford Motor Company, and assumed a variety of positions in the company, leading to his current position as group vice president for Global Product Development. As a supportive alumnus, Kuzak has provided his time and expertise to UDM in numerous ways. He spoke at the 2008 Ford Innovation Symposium held at the University, is a member of the Ford/UDM Steering Committee, and advises the faculty in the College of Engineering & Science Master's in Product Development Program.

Kuzak's acceptance remarks, which he addressed to students at the dinner, focused on "what it takes to achieve success in today's business environment." He defines success as having knowledge based on a broad array of perspectives; a skill in understanding people and communicating with them; an understanding of who you are  — your fundamental traits, which include integrity, a willingness to learn and responsibility to teach; and being a doer — someone who is responsible and accountable for making decisions. Kuzak stressed the need "to make the kind of determined and consistent effort that is takes to lead, to make things happen." Read Kuzak's full remarks.

Rokosz, the 2009 Science Alumnus, received his Bachelor of Science degree in Physics and Mathematics from the University. He founded MJR Labs, a technical consulting firm, and currently holds the position as president of the company. He also worked as a research scientist and manager for the Nuclear Magnetic Resonance Facility at Ford Motor Company. Although a recipient of many awards himself, Rokosz created the "da Vinci Awards" to pay tribute to individuals who have helped to make the world more handicapped accessible.

To view photos of the event, visit UDM's online gallery.