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Harrisburg, Pa.Harrisburg Young Professionals (HYP) has honored late Harrisburg University Professor Dr. Charles “Chip” Shearrow with its Project of the Year Award for the more than 2,300 face shields he produced last year to protect first responders and long-term care workers on the frontlines of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Chip, who led Harrisburg University’s Advanced Manufacturing Program, passed away due to complications related to the coronavirus on Jan. 12. The award, given during HYP’s annual meeting held February 22, honors Chip’s memory and recognizes Harrisburg University for its innovation and contribution to the community.

“We are thankful to receive the Project of the Year award in recognition of Chip’s work. Chip embodied the spirit of the mission of Harrisburg University,” said University President Dr. Eric Darr. “Chip connected his work and his students to the needs of the community. And his diligence and expertise helped elevate HU’s reputation, allowing our Advanced Manufacturing Program to prosper. His passion, energy, and dedication are missed.”

When COVID-19 struck last year, Chip went into action to produce face shields for frontline workers. He volunteered countless hours of his free time producing batches of face shields on three of Harrisburg University’s 3D printers. He teamed with the Pennsylvania Health Care Association and other organizations to provide the 3D-printed face shields amid a statewide shortage of personal protective equipment. Through October, Shearrow, his son Charles Shearrow II, grandson Matt Walters, and wife Lynn Shearrow, produced 2,344 face shields for those who needed them most free of charge.

Harrisburg University is working to establish an award for outstanding students as well as a scholarship fund in support of Advanced Manufacturing Program students in remembrance of Chip and to honor his contributions to the University.

About Harrisburg University

Accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education, Harrisburg University is a private non-profit university offering bachelor and graduate degree programs in science, technology, and math fields to a diverse student body. For more information on the University’s affordable demand-driven undergraduate and graduate programs, call 717.901.5146 or email, Connect@HarrisburgU.edu.

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