In celebration of the 50th anniversary of the light-emitting diode, or LED, invention, the University invited speakers from around the world to speak at the LED 50th Anniversary Symposium.

The symposium, held Wednesday and Thursday, featured Nobel Prize winning researchers and Governor Pat Quinn.

Nick Holonyak invented the LED in 1962 and has been a professor in Electrical Computer Engineering at the University since 1963. Holonyak was one of several speakers at the celebration of the LED invention. Other speakers included contributors to the development of LED lighting and semiconductor lenses.

William Bradley Petersen, one of the coordinators of the event and associate director of external relations for the office of advancement, said the main reason for having the event was to celebrate the achievements of Holonyak. Petersen said Holonyak has inspired many people, including his students.

“Holonyak advised them and some of his former students to have careers in the LED industry,” Petersen said.

The event began Wednesday with Chancellor Phyllis Wise welcoming the guests.

“The University has never had such a large density of intelligent people as this room does now,” she said.

Holonyak said when he was inventing the LED, the plan was to use the least amount of energy in lighting as possible.

“The ultimate plan, that concept comes from 50 years ago, (is) the perfect conversion of electrical energy to optical energy,” Holonyak said.

Holonyak’s invention of the LED has led to greener technology because there is no mercury present in LED lighting. The lighting is also longer-lasting and more durable.

Quinn stressed the importance of this by telling the audience he is now trying to live a greener life using LED lighting. Quinn said the Governor’s mansion now uses the technology.

The Governor declared Oct. 24, 2012 as Nick Holonyak Day in celebration of the 50th anniversary of the invention. In a press release, Quinn called Holonyak “the Father of the Visible LED.”

Atoosa can be reached at [email protected].