Co-founder of the National Society of Black Engineers
Anthony “Tony” Harris, who earned a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering in 1975 and an honorary doctorate in 2013, played a crucial role in founding the National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE). As president of Purdue's chapter of the Society of Black Engineers (SBE) during his senior year, Harris, along with five friends from Chicago, known as the “Chicago Six,” supported by Purdue President Arthur G. Hansen, expanded the group nationally. In April 1975, they invited universities nationwide to a meeting at Purdue, where the NSBE was formed. Today, the NSBE is one of the largest student-run organizations in the U.S., with more than 31,000 members. Harris began his career as a design engineer at Standard Oil Company before earning an MBA. He held significant roles at Ford Motor Company, Pacific Gas & Electric, and Calpine Corporation. In 2007, he became president and CEO of Campbell/Harris Security Equipment Company. Purdue recognized him with an Outstanding Mechanical Engineer Award in 1999 and a Distinguished Engineering Alumnus Award in 2008.