Scottsdale resident graduates ASU summa cum laude

Scottsdale resident Jake Okun as an outstanding graduate from the Fulton School of Engineering and the School of Manufacturing Systems and Networks at ASU.

Okun graduated summa cum laude with a 4.0 GPA from Barrett, the honors college, according to a press release.

Even before his accolades at ASU, Okun was recognized as a U.S. Presidential Scholar in high school for his exceptional achievements.
Okun’s choice to pursue a degree at ASU was driven by the opportunities at the Fulton Schools of Engineering. His engagement in cutting-edge research, journal publications, patent filings, and participation in academically focused programs has significantly shaped his future.

“From a young age, I have been convinced that the combination of ASU and Barrett, the honors college, is the ideal path for pursuing an engineering degree as the opportunities are endless,” Okun said in the release.

During his time at ASU, Okun founded and presided over the Barrett engineering club, Building Engineering Solutions Today at Barrett (BEST), and took on roles such as vice president and senator of the undergraduate student government. His commitment to leadership was recognized through numerous awards, including the prestigious Dr. Christine K. Wilkinson Leadership Award and the Chuck and Judy Backus Outstanding Graduate Award and more.

Okun’s academic journey is marked by his designation as a Grand Challenges Scholar with his research in wearable robotics and exoskeleton systems.

“I chose manufacturing engineering after being fascinated by the hands-on curriculum and the pivotal role this field plays in the future of the United States,” Okun said in the release.

His work aims to enhance human efficiency through innovative technology, an aspiration that led to a defining moment when he filed his first patent.

Reflecting on his achievements, Okun said in the release, “Throughout my involvement in various programs, jobs, and organizations at ASU, I have achieved a sense of fulfillment in every endeavor. Embracing failures and turning them into successes from a young age has been my most significant accomplishment, shaping me into the resilient and adaptable leader I am today.”

Okun looks forward to continuing his education in an accelerated master’s program in robotics and autonomous systems

“My goal is to be a leader in the tech industry and redefine the way people think about automation, artificial intelligence, and assistive technology,” he said in the release.