Ha Van Vo

Dr. Ha Van Vo

Phone: (478) 301-2454 • Fax: (478) 301-2331
E-Mail: vo_hv@mercer.edu

 

Clinton Global Initiative

Clinton Global Initiative video

"The project was one of only three commitments by universities around the country to be recognized by President Bill Clinton during the conferences opening plenary session.

The Clinton Global Initiative University program partners with universities and students who make specific commitments to engaging the world and taking on global challenges. President Clinton described the Mercer project at the meeting and presented University Minister and Dean of the Chapel Dr. Craig McMahan with a certificate acknowledging the University’s commitment.

Designed by Mercer School of Engineering students, the prosthetics use a universal socket technology developed by Dr. Ha van Vo, assistant professor of Biomedical Engineering. This project represents the essence of the engineering educational experience that we strive to deliver here at Mercer, said Dr. Michael S. Leonard, interim dean of the School of Engineering. It uses engineering design and analysis to find ways to improve the quality of peoples’ lives. Our students and professors have designed something that will do that in a dramatic way. While we are proud that their commitment was recognized, we are even more proud of the impact this will have on the lives of so many in developing nations. "


Mercer on Mission in Vietnam

MOM Vietnam Video

This summer, 15 Mercer University students travelled to Vietnam with Dr. Ha Van Vo, assistant professor of biomedical engineering, and Dr. Ramachandran Radharamanan, professor of industrial engineering, to provide low-cost prosthetics to amputees. The group fitted and distributed Mercer-designed prosthetic legs, which can be produced for as little as $200. The group was one of seven Mercer On Mission 09 teams.

The project is part of a three-year initiative by Mercer to provide amputees with low-cost prosthetics that can be fitted without having to be fully customized. Because amputees in developing countries cannot afford expensive customized prosthetics, they often go without them. The group is also training local medical personnel to adapt the prosthetics to fit individual amputees. Eventually, Mercer will expand the program to Thailand and India.