There was no person more dedicated to delivering on AFCEA's commitment to students and education than Commodore Robert Howell, Royal Navy (Retired), most recently the general manager for AFCEA Europe. Robert was the force behind establishing AFCEA Student Chapter/Clubs, conducting International Student Conferences, and taking AFCEA Professional Development courses and the AFCEA Leadership Forum to Europe. In early October, he lost his battle with cancer.

To honor Robert and keep his upbeat, positive spirit alive, AFCEA has created the AFCEA International Educational Fund in his name. This Fund will be used to support International Chapter educational programs for students outside the United States.

AFCEA Student Chapters/Clubs are a high priority for AFCEA. One of the early AFCEA Students Clubs was founded by Deree College students of The American College of Greece, Athens. Robert was instrumental in making this possible, and representatives of this club attended the International Student Conferences Robert created and hosted, first in Brussels, Belgium, and then with TechNet International Conferences. In addition to the Greek Student Club, there are AFCEA Student Clubs/Chapters at Argentina Army University and Prague University. Other AFCEA International Student Chapters/Clubs are in the works.

AFCEA International is launching this Fund with a $25,000 contribution. Donations honoring Robert can be made to the AFCEA Educational Foundation either online here, or by mail to here - please indicate "for Robert Howell." Funds will be used for the following:

- International Student Chapter/Club Scholarships

- International Student Conference

- International AFCEA Leadership Forum Tuitions

- International Excellence in a Scientific Project

For additional information, contact Norma Corrales at Email.