The Jackie McLean Fellowship Committee is pleased to announce the 2026–27 Fellow: Keshawn Smith, College of Engineering, Technology, and Architecture (CETA), Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering
Keshawn Smith is a doctoral candidate in Electrical Engineering at the University of Connecticut. His teaching, research, and mentorship are centered on creating inclusive learning environments and preparing the next generation of engineers. A University of Hartford alumnus and current Visiting Assistant Professor in the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Smith has taught a wide range of undergraduate engineering courses while mentoring students through the University's STRIDE program and other initiatives that support student belonging and academic success.
During his Jackie McLean Fellowship, he will continue teaching undergraduate engineering courses while completing his doctoral research on safe, interpretable, and human-centered autonomous systems. He also plans to expand opportunities for undergraduate students to participate in research while strengthening inclusive teaching practices that help students develop confidence, technical expertise, and a strong sense of professional identity. Through his commitment to student-centered education, mentorship, and scholarship, Smith embodies the mission of the Jackie McLean Fellowship and its dedication to fostering academic excellence and cultural competence across the University community.
About the Fellowship
The Jackie McLean Fellowship honors the legacy of educator, performer, and civil rights activist Jackie McLean. Since 2008, the Jackie McLean Fellowship has been part of the University of Hartford's continuing efforts to advance the academic, intellectual, and cultural competence of our campus community. Through their teaching, scholarship, and community building across departments, Fellows offer unique insight into how to foster inclusive excellence and belonging on our campus.
Please join us in congratulating Keshawn. We look forward to his contributions in the year ahead!