Neil Gandler, MS '97, BS '95
Neil Gandler earned a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering from UB in 1995. Subsequently, based on his academic performance and his professors’ assessment that his experience would benefit the program, he was awarded a full scholarship into the Master of Engineering program at UB. Ultimately, he earned a Master of Computer Science and Electrical Engineering in 1997. He also obtained a Master of Business Administration from the University of Michigan in 2005.
As a child, Neil was fascinated with technology, and electronics became a way of expressing his technical creativity. As this became his academic and professional pursuit, some of his innovative ideas became the subjects of numerous patent applications he authored. His focus on circuitry design and prototype development involved his emphasis on the concepts of automation, which has since evolved into the rapidly expanding field of “The Internet of Things.” Later in his career, Neil often participated as an expert panelist at industry events, sharing his passion, wisdom, and practical applications of technology.
Neil was a fearless entrepreneur by nature, always looking for the next idea in his quest to innovate in ways to help others. Undoubtedly, he profoundly impacted people and brought out the best in them. He was warm, caring, down-to-earth, creative and enthusiastic. Neil was a bridge builder with a natural ability to forge strong connections with friends and strangers who quickly became friends. He was not one to be constrained by procedural norms or selective friendships. Neil consistently sought out engaging and honest discussions with almost everyone he met. He welcomed divergent opinions and always looked to gain mutual understanding and foster collaboration in some fashion.
During his career, Neil worked as a project manager and engineer in the automotive field, focusing on infotainment and user-experience technology. He also held positions as an Operations Strategist and Management Consultant in the Computer Science field. Before passing, he led the creation and launch of his collaborative social platform with web and mobile applications for international CES exhibitors and attendees. Neil’s creative impulses continuously flowed, as demonstrated by the copious notes and records of his concepts and ideas, proposing solutions to improve life. A notable example reflecting his concern for aging includes his thoughts on home automation solutions for aging in place.
The effort by Neil’s family and friends to establish this memorial was led by his brother Adam Gandler, also a UB alumnus, with the goal that it will help honor Neil’s memory. By creating a legacy in Neil’s name, this memorial scholarship will assist future scholars working to achieve academic and professional goals that support technology innovation for the betterment of humanity. Though Neil Gandler’s life was tragically cut short, we desire that his support and influence on the education of future engineers will continue to live on and grow. We hope anyone moved by his kindness, creative spirit, and generosity will consider contributing to make this scholarship one of Neil’s most enduring and outstanding achievements.