Dr. Calvin Mackie, motivational speaker, bestselling author, entrepreneur, and engineer, was honored with the 2013 Bennie Award in Achievement during “A Candle in the Dark” Gala, Feb. 16t as part of the annual Founder’s Week celebration at Morehouse College.
A press release detailed some of Mackie’s top achievements starting with his days at Morehouse.
After high school, Dr. Mackie was accepted to Morehouse College under the condition that he undertake remedial classes first. Surpassing everyone’s wildest expectations, he went on to graduate Magna Cum Laude and as a member of the prestigious Phi Beta Kappa National Honor Society. Over the course of 11 years, he earned four STEM degrees, reaching the peak of educational success with a PhD in Mechanical Engineering from Georgia Tech. In 2003, he was presented with the Presidential Award for Excellence in Science, Mathematics and Engineering Mentoring.
His work ethic and service have earned him countless awards. But receiving the Bennie Award in Achievement from the college that gave him his first chance is truly a remarkable honor.
During the Founders Week celebration, alumni and supporters gathered for the “A Candle in the Dark” Gala. This black-tie event displayed the talents of Morehouse students, showcased the college’s tradition of building leaders, and celebrated nationally-acclaimed African Americans who are pioneers within their industries. Dr. Mackie was one of three alumni who received Bennie Awards, which are named after Dr. Benjamin E. Mays, Morehouse’s president from 1940 to 1967.
“I am surprised, honored, and humbled by this recognition,” says Dr. Mackie. “To all my family, friends, teachers, educators, and mentors, thank you for your enduring support that you’ve provided throughout my life. My days as a student at Morehouse College were instrumental in building the foundation for who I am today. There is no better feeling than being recognized for living up to the high expectations that Morehouse helped me establish.”
Dr. Mackie completed his degree in Mathematics at Morehouse in 1990, graduating Magna Cum Laude and as a member of the prestigious Phi Beta Kappa National Honor Society. He was simultaneously awarded a Bachelors degree in Mechanical Engineering from Georgia Tech, where he subsequently earned his Master and PhD in Mechanical Engineering. He cherishes his educational experiences and continues to be actively involved with both institutions.
The author of “A View from the Roof” (Acanthus Publishing, 2005) and “Grandma’s Hands” (Acanthus Publishing, 2012), Dr. Mackie has won numerous awards. In addition to the 2003 Presidential Award for Excellence in Science, Mathematics, and Engineering Mentoring, he has received the 2002 Black Engineer of the Year Award for College Level Educator, the 2002 New Orleans Data News Weekly Trailblazer Award, and the Pi Tau Sigma/ASME Excellence in Teaching Award in Mechanical Engineering for 2000 and 2002.
On Friday, Feb. 15, Mackie also received the coveted Legacy Award from the United Negro College Fund for his long-standing record of encouraging students to realize their full potential.
For more information on Dr. Mackie, visit www.CalvinMackie.com.
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