I just learned that Justin Raade ’01 of Washburn, WI has been renewed as the Class of 1953 Scholar for 1999-2000.

Justin, who is an active member of Theta Delta Chi, is now a junior majoring in electrical engineering and computer science. Last Spring, Justin participated in the “MechEverest” competition, which was the culmination of the Design and Engineering I (2.007) course taught by Professor Alexander Slocum ’82. Justin designed a high-powered wall climber. This machine provided yet another solution to the problem of delivering hockey pucks to the scoring hole. In this case two rows of five pucks were stored next to one another and separated by a thin dividing wall. After the first row was pushed out, the dividing wall retracted and the second row of pucks was allowed to roll into place to be pushed out by the same slider. Since Justin placed fourth in the “MechEverst” contest, has the wonderful opportunity to travel to Japan to compete in an international design competition.

When not engaged in academic pursuits, Justin enjoys spending some of his spare time pursuing his musical interests. He plays both the electric guitar and the piano. His other extracurricular interests include radio-controlled model airplanes. Over the summer, he worked as a detailer at a manufacturing company in Wisconsin.

As you know, support from the Class of 1953 helps MIT maintain its commitment to admitting the best and brightest, regardless of need. On behalf of the Alumni Association and the Institute, I send sincere thanks for the Class of 1953’s contributions to this fund.