Ding Prize for Scholarly Excellence in Electrical and Computer Engineering Support Fund

Professor Zhi Ding has spent more than two decades inspiring UC Davis students as a world-renowned scholar, mentor, and educator in the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering. Known to generations of students as “Coach Ding,” he has shaped not only careers in engineering and technology, but also the confidence and curiosity of the students he teaches.

In recognition of his extraordinary impact, Professor Ding received the 2025–2026 UC Davis Prize for Undergraduate Teaching and Scholarly Achievement — one of the university’s highest honors for faculty excellence in teaching, mentorship, and research.

To celebrate that legacy and invest in future generations of Aggie engineers, Professor Ding and his wife, Tonia Lu, established the Ding Endowed Prize for Excellence in Electrical and Computer Engineering. The Prize recognizes the top graduating student in Electrical and Computer Engineering whose academic achievement reflects exceptional dedication, intellectual rigor, and excellence in the field. Additional gifts to the Ding Prize help build a lasting tribute to a beloved teacher and scholar while supporting and celebrating outstanding ECE students for generations to come.

Join fellow alumni, former students, colleagues, and friends in honoring Professor Ding through a gift to the Ding Endowed Prize for Excellence in Electrical and Computer Engineering.