TEMPE, AZ--(Marketwired - May 04, 2017) - Each year, University of Advancing Technology (UAT) recognizes leaders in technology who have paved the way for our future graduates to follow. This year, UAT is pleased to acknowledge Joseph Ybarra, formerly of Electronic Arts (EA), as a recipient of an Honorary Doctorate Degree to be awarded at UAT's Commencement Ceremony on Friday, May 5, 2017, at Mesa Arts Center.


In addition to Ybarra's history at EA, he is also known for forming the concept of a game producer. Along the way, Ybarra has produced over 50 titles resulting in over 5 million games sold -- including iconic titles like the very first Madden NFL.


UAT Game Programming Professor Hue Henry said, "As Producer on some of the earliest major titles in the games industry, Joe Ybarra developed many of the production techniques that are still considered industry standards today. Add in his continuing role in educating the next generation of game developers, and he is, quite literally, the past, present, and future of video games."


In the formative years, Ybarra and EA Founder Trip Hawkins went to NFL star John Madden to pitch their idea for Madden NFL, which turned out to be the best-selling video game franchise of all time.

"What makes our relationship with Joseph really special is that he loves UAT because our production model matches his vision of how to prepare students for the industry and he thinks we do it the best," said Dr. David Bolman, UAT Provost.


About UAT:
University of Advancing Technology (UAT) is an elite, private technology University focused on educating students in advancing technology who desire to innovate for our future. Our technology infused, urban campus is a technology nexus; a collection of technophiles, tech geeks and mavens of the digital world that evolve into top technology executives, master programmers, cyber warriors, forensic sleuths, robotic engineers, interactive filmmakers, and game innovators for entertainment and government animation applications.

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