U of M Professor Robert Malkin Honored for Service
For release: April 30, 2004
For press information, contact Gabrielle Maxey

University of Memphis biomedical engineering professor Dr. Robert Malkin has been credited with vastly improving appalling conditions at Third World hospitals through his Engineering World Health (EWH) program. Now he is being recognized nationally for his efforts.

Malkin has received the prestigious Jefferson Award from the American Institute for Public Service, which recognizes U.S. citizens who have made outstanding contributions to their communities. Created in 1972 by Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis and U.S. Sen. Robert Taft Jr., the honor has become the Nobel Prize of public service. About 1,000 Americans are chosen for the honor each year.

Malkin founded EWH three years ago as a way to deliver much-needed medical equipment to needy countries. Hundreds of pieces of equipment have been sent to countries such as Sudan, Nicaragua, Haiti and the Ukraine.

"The equipment we have provided has played an important role in helping to save the lives of children," Malkin said. "The equipment we take is equipment the hospitals can't afford to buy or fix."

EWH includes a summer institute at the U of M that gives engineering majors the opportunity to earn college credit by designing medical equipment that meets the needs of developing countries. College students in the program travel to Third World nations to repair and install donated medical equipment. The program has attracted students from across the country.

Malkin received the award in a ceremony at The Peabody in April.

More News Releases