ECE ILLINOIS alumnus Rob Kennedy (BSEE '78) reminisces about his time as an undergraduate for The News-Gazette's 150 Years & Beyond project. Kennedy also serves as the president and co-COO of C-SPAN.
Written by Joseph Park, ECE ILLINOIS
Rob Kennedy (BSEE '78)
Photo cred: The News-GazetteECE ILLINOIS alumnus Rob Kennedy (BSEE '78) was recently featured as part of The News-Gazette's special feature 150 Years & Beyond and reminisced about his time on campus. 150 Years & Beyond is a project led by The News-Gazette to collect memories of accomplished alumni and faculty scattered across the world. For Kennedy, one particular spot holds a special place in his heart.
Although the South Sixth Street spot where Kennedy met his wife, the former Cynthia Marchigiani, stands no more, the everlasting memory of Second Chance stands as a testament to their marriage.
"Sadly, Second Chance burned down in 1977. But Cynthia and I were married in 1979, and our flame is still lit after 37 years - and counting," said Kennedy.
Kennedy recalled several important lessons that he learned in his first time away from home back when he was an underclassman in the mid-'70s. "Separate colors from whites when washing clothes. I had a batch of pink underwear as a constant reminder."
In 2012, Kennedy was named as the recipient of the College of Engineering's Distinguished Alumni Award. Since 2006, Kennedy has been serving as C-SPAN's president and co-COO.
For more information, check out the 150 Years & Beyond feature on The News-Gazette.