Jason Speyer, a distinguished professor of mechanical and aerospace engineering at the UCLA Henry Samueli School of Engineering and Applied Science, has been named the inaugural holder of the school's Ronald and Valerie Sugar Chair in Engineering.
 
The chair was established with a $1 million gift from UCLA alumni Ronald D. Sugar, former chairman and CEO of Northrop Grumman Corp., and his wife, Valerie Sugar.
 
"Jason Speyer is a recognized leader in guidance and control systems for aviation and aerospace craft, as well as an excellent educator," said Vijay K. Dhir, dean of UCLA Engineering. "I am pleased he has been named to this prestigious chair and am grateful for the generous contributions of Ron and Valerie Sugar, who have long been friends of the school."