The Consulate General of the Republic of Serbia in New York had the honour of hosting representatives of IEEE

01. May 2026.
The Consulate General of the Republic of Serbia in New York had the honour of hosting representatives of IEEE, Marie Hunter and Jayne O’Brien, at a significant meeting with His Excellency Consul General Vladimir Božović, PhD.

The discussion was dedicated to preparations for a project marking the 170th anniversary of the birth of Nikola Tesla, the Serbian-American scientist whose inventions and vision transformed the modern world. Tesla spent much of his life in New York, a city where he lived, worked, and left an indelible mark on the history of science and technology.

Particular emphasis was placed on Tesla’s historical connection to professional organizations that preceded today’s IEEE. Tesla was a member of the American Institute of Electrical Engineers (AIEE), which later became part of IEEE, and he was awarded the prestigious Edison Medal in 1917. Today, IEEE also presents the “IEEE Nikola Tesla Award,” one of the highest distinctions in the field of electric power engineering.

Discussions explored ways to appropriately commemorate this important anniversary in New York, including an initiative to erect a monument to Nikola Tesla as a lasting symbol of recognition of his contributions to humanity and the enduring bond between Serbia and the United States. Special emphasis was also placed on organizing a joint scientific and professional conference in cooperation with IEEE, which would bring together leading experts, researchers, and members of the academic community to highlight Tesla’s scientific legacy and its impact on the modern world.

All participants expressed strong willingness, readiness, and enthusiasm to work jointly on this important project, in cooperation with other distinguished members of the Serbian community, as well as organizations and institutions that share the same vision. The common goal is to mark the 170th anniversary of Tesla’s birth in a meaningful and visible way, further highlighting his legacy on a global stage.

This initiative also represents a unique opportunity to further educate the wider public about Nikola Tesla’s life and work, and to deepen understanding of the significance of his discoveries. The aim is for all participants and visitors to leave these events with a greater appreciation of Tesla’s contributions to science, technological progress, and the modern world as a whole.

IEEE, as the world’s largest professional organization in the field of electrical engineering and technology, is a natural partner in this initiative. Tesla remains one of the most prominent symbols of the scientific legacy that IEEE continues to nurture and promote worldwide.

The Consulate General of the Republic of Serbia remains committed to preserving and promoting Serbian scientific and cultural heritage, as well as to building partnerships that keep this legacy alive, relevant, and visible in the heart of New York City.