In May, the Wichita State University community said goodbye to 22-year-old electrical engineering student Abduljaleel "Jaleel" Alarbash, who was killed trying to stop a suicide bomber from entering a mosque in Saudi Arabia.

This week the man hailed as a hero will be remembered with an honorary degree and have a room in Jabara Hall named in his memory.

John Watkins, chairman of the Electrical Engineering and Computer Science (EECS) Department, says it was important to everyone in the department that Alarbash be recognized for his sacrifice and his life while at WSU.

“He set a very high standard that we should all strive to follow,” Watkins says. “It’s clear that he touched numerous lives. If I had a chance, I would thank him for the huge positive impact he made on this world. I am extremely proud to call him a Shocker.”

Watkins says the decision was made to dedicate the EECS lounge because it’s a highly visible area and is used by many EECS students.

The unveiling of the room and a plaque in his honor is set for 3 p.m. Friday, Dec. 11, in Jabara Hall, Room 255. Remarks and refreshments will be held in Jabara Hall, Room 127 before the unveiling. All are welcome to attend. 

Alarbash, who planned to return to Wichita State this fall following his wedding in his native Saudi Arabia, will also be recognized with a posthumous degree at WSU’s fall commencement ceremony at 2:30 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 13, in Charles Koch Arena.

“Honoring Abduljaleel's extraordinary contribution is a fitting way for current and future Wichita State students, faculty and staff to know of his commitment to preserving life and prosperity," says Royce Bowden, dean of the College of Engineering.