Diversity

CU �鶹ӰԺ among top colleges for Indigenous students

Charles Ferrer — Wed, 13 Nov 2024 20:34:04 +0000

CU �鶹ӰԺ among top colleges for Indigenous students Charles Ferrer Wed, 11/13/2024 - 13:34

Charles Ferrer

The American Indian Science and Engineering Society (AISES) has recognized CU �鶹ӰԺ as one of the top 200 colleges for Indigenous students in its 2024-2025 national rankings.

CU �鶹ӰԺ's AISES chapter attends the 2024 national AISES Conference in San Antonio.

AISES, a national organization dedicated to increasing Indigenous representation in STEM fields, evaluated schools based on the strength of their support programs for Native students, as well as undergraduate enrollment and graduation rates.

The AISES chapter at CU �鶹ӰԺ serves as a community for Indigenous students in the College of Engineering and Applied Science and across campus, connecting those interested in STEM and supporting them academically and professionally. This recognition reflects CU �鶹ӰԺ’s commitment to fostering an environment where Indigenous students can thrive in STEM—a commitment embodied by the leaders of its AISES chapter.

Noelle Bagola, the chapter’s treasurer, said her journey with AISES has empowered her professionally and personally.

“Being part of AISES allowed me to grow as a leader,” she said.

Through her involvement, Bagola developed skills in areas she once found challenging, like connecting with professionals at conferences and building strong peer relationships.

“Now, I feel confident communicating with people and stepping up to help others. Becoming a leader has been my biggest accomplishment with AISES.”

For Shellene Redhorse, AISES chapter president and a third-year aerospace engineering student, the chapter’s impact extends beyond CU �鶹ӰԺ’s campus.

“A lot of what AISES does is about supporting our members and the Indigenous community,” she said. “The Indigenous community at CU �鶹ӰԺ may be small, and the STEM students within that community are even more rare, but we are here.”

One of her proudest achievements was taking students to this year’s national AISES conference in San Antonio, where they connected with other Native scientists. Redhorse also highlighted the chapter’s outreach to Indigenous students in Denver, where they host hands-on STEM activities, including rocketry demonstrations at Lake Middle School.

“We’re hoping to inspire middle-schoolers by showing them what a future in STEM could look like,” she said.

“When I was in school, I didn’t think a STEM career was possible for me until I got to work on hands-on projects. I know many Native students don’t have those opportunities, so we’re working to change that.”

Looking forward, AISES aims to establish a more permanent support network for Native students in Denver, opening more pathways into STEM fields.

Indigenous Knowledge and STEM

AISES participated in the 2023 First Nations Launch as the ‘CU Trailblazers’, sweeping first place in all their categories and a grand prize trip to the Kennedy Space Center.

Both Bagola and Redhorse draw from Indigenous knowledge to inform their approach to STEM.

Redhorse, who is of Navajo (Diné) and Chickasaw descent, described how her cultural heritage shapes her engineering perspective.

“In our culture, we observe nature closely—how animals act, how weather patterns shift, even how the stars guide us. Our ancestors used this knowledge for everything from growing crops to building structures,” she said.

Inspired by these traditions, she incorporates Indigenous wisdom into school projects.

“I remember building a small rover in sixth grade based on how a beetle moved away from light. It’s that respect for nature and deep observation that really inspires me.”

Redhorse often reflects on Navajo understandings of stars and space, which she sees as especially relevant to her studies in aerospace. She also appreciates Indigenous approaches to sustainability, noting how Native architecture adapts to harsh climates in environmentally mindful ways.

“Whether it’s the way water moves around structures or how a hogan—a traditional dwelling and ceremonial structure—retains heat, these hold incredible value in my engineering work.”

Bagola, an integrative physiology student and a member of the Navajo (Diné) and Cheyenne River Sioux tribes, finds similar connections in her field.

“For us, health is not just physical—it’s about mind, spirit, and experience,” she explained.

“Indigenous medicine, like using sweat lodges, plays an important role in healing. Staying connected with your spirit is essential to being truly healthy.”

Community and Advice for Indigenous STEM Students

“AISES is a really welcoming community for Native students here at CU,” Redhorse said. “It’s a safe space where we can connect, share and rejuvenate. Our meetings are open to anyone, you don’t have to be Native. We welcome anyone who wants to learn about our culture and support us.”

Campus Organizations and Community Resources

Like Bagola, Redhorse also said her involvement with AISES has helped her grow as a leader. Recently, she was invited to welcome the keynote speakers at CU �鶹ӰԺ’s Indigenous Peoples’ Day plenary event—a role she could not have imagined for herself as a first-year student.

Chantal Baca, academic services manager for the BOLD Center, has served as the AISES faculty advisor for the past academic year. She noted the inclusive community for Indigenous students and credits AISES’ executive student board and members over the last five years.

“The AISES chapter is a remarkable group of student leaders who embody the vision, achievement and STEM student success,” said Baca. “Their membership has made a significant impact in the College of Engineering and Applied Science.”

Student leaders offer heartfelt advice to Indigenous students interested in STEM.

“It’s OK to feel alone sometimes, but find your community, and don’t be afraid to ask for help,” said Bagola. “Joining AISES helped me step out of my comfort zone, gain confidence and start reaching out to my professors and others in my field.”

“In engineering, there were five women in a room of 50 students—and being Native added another layer,” said Redhorse. “But, I’d tell anyone in that position: keep going.”

“Our people are resilient, and if you push through and find your community, you’ll thrive.”

The American Indian Science and Engineering Society has recognized CU �鶹ӰԺ as a top college for Indigenous students in its 2024-2025 national rankings.

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Pioneering sodium-ion batteries: a sustainable energy alternative

Charles Ferrer — Mon, 11 Nov 2024 17:12:55 +0000

Pioneering sodium-ion batteries: a sustainable energy alternative Charles Ferrer Mon, 11/11/2024 - 10:12

Charles Ferrer

Kangmin working in the battery glovebox under the direction of Dr. Ban.

CU �鶹ӰԺ researchers are exploring the use of sodium-ion batteries as an alternative to lithium-based energy storage.

While sodium is abundant and could help address supply chain issues linked to lithium scarcity, current sodium-ion batteries have not performed as well as lithium-ion batteries due to their lower energy density and shorter lifespans.

To tackle these challenges, Chunmei Ban, associate professor of mechanical engineering and materials science, and her research team are developing new electrolytes and studying how they interact with battery electrodes to enhance performance and longevity.

Funded by the Colorado Office of Economic Development and International Trade, this work aims to improve the overall effectiveness of sodium-ion batteries making them a more viable energy storage option.

Ban notes that sodium, widely distributed in the Earth’s crust, is an appealing candidate for large-scale energy storage solutions and is an emerging market in the United States.

“The sodium-ion battery market provides significant opportunities for new companies and a pathway to domestic manufacturing dominance,” said Ban. “Sodium may offer a potential remedy to concerns over resource scarcity with lithium-ion batteries.”

Researching battery alternatives

Kangmin Kim, a fourth-year chemical engineering student and BOLD Scholar, participated in the research project through CU SPUR gaining hands-on experience in hopes to further his research interest in battery technologies for graduate school.

“Lithium battery technology is reaching a point where improvements are becoming more incremental than transformative,” said Kim, “so we need alternative renewable technologies that we can rely on.”

Kangmin completes a summer research experience on sodium-ion batteries.

He believes improved battery technology is essential for advancing society and fostering a more sustainable energy future.

“We will need these improved battery technologies for everything from electric vehicles to drones and cell phones,” he said.

Through Kim’s research experience, he developed battery fabrication skills and learned the importance of precision and attention to detail in creating high-quality batteries.

“The lab work was actually quite similar to cooking, which is an activity I love to do,” said Kim. “Knowing what ingredients we need, what precautions must be taken, what tools and techniques are used are just like working in the lab.”

In mentoring students like Kim, Ban highlights how fulfilling it is to work with students who demonstrate a strong passion for science and technology and eagerness to learn.

“It has been a rewarding experience to witness undergraduate students like Kangmin grow their research and scientific skills in helping to solve some of our major global challenges.”

CU �鶹ӰԺ researchers are exploring the use of sodium-ion batteries as an alternative to lithium-based energy storage.

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How to land an internship: Tips from the Society of Women Engineers

Anonymous — Mon, 21 Oct 2024 15:41:05 +0000

How to land an internship: Tips from the Society of Women Engineers Anonymous (not verified) Mon, 10/21/2024 - 09:41

Charles Ferrer

With autumn still in the air, now is actually the perfect time to start your internship search for the summer or beyond.

Securing an internship provides students with an invaluable hands-on experience, offering the chance to apply classroom knowledge in real-world settings or explore different fields they might not have previously considered. While internships enhance resumes, they also provide a chance to explore potential career paths and connect with professionals with a variety of experiences—invaluable benefits for any student.

CU �鶹ӰԺ’s chapter of the Society of Women Engineers (SWE) recently hosted companies across industries including aerospace, research & development, energy, radio frequency communication and sports equipment for their Industry Networking Night.

The event was an opportunity for students to speak with professionals and learn about engineering and technical roles nationwide. Students also learned about the skills recruiters typically look for among interns.

Top 10 Tips to Land an Internship

Looking for tips on landing an internship in any industry? Look no further! SWE’s leadership board members—many of whom have completed internships themselves—provided helpful tips to help you get started!

Craft a Strong Resume: Highlight your experiences and skills clearly and seek feedback from multiple people. Tailor your resume for different roles and companies that interest you.
Apply Widely: The internship search is often a numbers game. Apply to as many positions as possible to increase your chances of landing interviews.
Polish Your LinkedIn Profile: Ensure your LinkedIn profile has a professional photo and lists relevant skills and experiences. A strong online presence can attract recruiters.
Practice Interview Skills: Take the time to practice your interview techniques. Always research the company and role beforehand to prepare relevant questions and answers.
Utilize Career Services: Schedule meetings with CU �鶹ӰԺ Career Services early in your search. They can provide valuable insights and resources to support your job hunt.
Do Your Research: Before interviews, familiarize yourself with the companies you’re applying to. Mention specific projects or products to demonstrate your enthusiasm.
Highlight Challenges and Growth: Discuss specific areas of previous projects where you excelled and struggled and how you overcame those challenges. This illustrates your growth mindset and problem-solving abilities.
Market Yourself: Connect your skills and experiences to the company’s values and goals, emphasizing your overall fit beyond just technical qualifications. If you don’t see yourself aligning with company values, that’s good to know too.
Be Personable in Interviews: Employers appreciate candidates who fit well within their company culture. Don’t be afraid to show your personality with authenticity and eagerness to learn.
Believe in Yourself and Stay Persistent: Confidence is key! Trust in your abilities and remember that persistence is crucial in the internship search.

Companies that connected with 70 SWE student members included: BOA Fit System, BrightLine Group, CMTA, First RF, Lockheed Martin, Monolith, Pattern Labs, Qorvo, Quantinuum, Sandia National Laboratories, Spectrum and Ursa Major.

Ameenah Razi, a first-year computer science student, was excited about expanding their horizons with new companies they weren’t aware of.

“I learned about a lot of opportunities and companies I wouldn’t have thought to look for, but now I’ll be applying to them,” said Razi.

Students who have internship experiences already under their belt, like fourth-year mechanical engineering student Aubrey Ley, enjoyed providing tips to freshmen and sophomores about their own experiences. Ley was a space manufacturing intern at Lockheed Martin last summer.

Since the event, Ley has connected with a number of companies for their job search and has been in touch with a recruiter about full-time roles after graduation.

Sara Leschova, vice president for SWE who organized the event, was proud of attracting more companies than in previous semesters.

“Several members who attended the event said they learned about new companies and have connected with recruiters,” said Leschova.

“That’s exactly why we hold industry events like this.”

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CU Engineering welcomes largest doctoral class in college history

Caroline Harrah — Thu, 19 Sep 2024 19:29:26 +0000

CU Engineering welcomes largest doctoral class in college history Caroline Harrah Thu, 09/19/2024 - 13:29

Caroline Harrah

College tops 1,100 PhDs with most diverse class

The College of Engineering and Applied Science at the �鶹ӰԺ is celebrating a milestone, welcoming its largest-ever cohort of doctoral students. With a 25% rise in PhD enrollment year-over-year, CU Engineering continues to solidify its reputation as a leader in graduate education, particularly among women and students from minoritized communities.

“CU Engineering is dedicated to becoming a top destination for the brightest minds across engineering fields, where novel research and innovation have the potential to impact everyday lives,” said Keith Molenaar, dean of the College of Engineering and Applied Science. “Our growth in PhD enrollment is a testament to the success of this strategy, and our strong enrollment of women and students from diverse backgrounds reflects the inclusive and supportive environment we seek to cultivate.”

The incoming class includes a record percentage of female doctoral students, with women making up 37% of new PhD enrollees, surpassing the national average of 29%, according to data from the American Society for Engineering Education. CU �鶹ӰԺ stands as the top large public institution for the percentage of women doctoral students enrolled—among institutions with more than 1,000 PhD students—holding a lead over peer institutions.

The overall PhD enrollment at CU Engineering now has 10% of its students from minoritized communities, higher than the national average of 7%. These gains are part of the college’s broader efforts to attract and support a more diverse student body through targeted recruitment and funding opportunities.

Among the incoming and continuing doctoral students, 18 have been awarded the prestigious National Science Foundation Graduate Research Fellowship, putting CU �鶹ӰԺ in the top 15 for NSF GRFP recipients nationwide across all disciplines and the College of Engineering and Applied Science at No. 7 nationwide in engineering disciplines. This recognition, which supports outstanding graduate students in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics disciplines, further proves the academic excellence found within CU �鶹ӰԺ Engineering’s doctoral programs.

Doctoral Program Strengths and Expanding Opportunities

The college’s growth extends beyond traditional engineering fields, in line with its strategy to continuously innovate a portfolio of programs that address emergent needs and opportunities in climate, space, health and quantum.

Newer programs, such as engineering education, biomedical engineering and robotics, have attracted significant interest from prospective students. These interdisciplinary programs are designed to meet the evolving needs of the workforce and offer doctoral students cutting-edge research opportunities in emerging fields.

"Exploring physics during my bachelor’s and master’s studies sparked a deep curiosity about how complex systems function and their potential to drive innovation, and encountering Kaushik Jayaram’s research at CU Engineering introduced me to the fascinating world of bio-inspired robotics," said Mija Jovchevska, incoming PhD student and CU �鶹ӰԺ Chancellor Scholar. "At first, I wasn't sure how my background would fit, but after meeting Jayaram and Nicole Xu, I knew CU �鶹ӰԺ was the right choice. Their pioneering work in bio-inspired robotics and biohybrid systems, along with CU’s interdisciplinary approach, supportive community, and �鶹ӰԺ lifestyle, made it the perfect place to bridge my physics background into this exciting, emerging field of research."

CU Engineering’s doctoral programs continue to gain national recognition, with recent rankings placing the college at No. 12 among public institutions and in the top 25 overall for graduate engineering education, according to U.S. News & World Report.

�鶹ӰԺ: A Top Destination for Graduate Students

In addition to academic prestige, CU �鶹ӰԺ’s location in the heart of �鶹ӰԺ, Colorado, offers doctoral students an unparalleled quality of life. �鶹ӰԺ is consistently ranked among the best places to live in the United States, known for its access to outdoor recreation, vibrant cultural scene and innovative tech ecosystem.

The region’s proximity to national laboratories and leading technology companies also provides CU Engineering students opportunities to collaborate on research and internships, further enhancing their graduate experience.

As the College of Engineering and Applied Science continues to grow, it remains dedicated to providing students with the resources, mentorship, and opportunities they need to excel in their fields and become leaders in research and innovation. With a record-breaking doctoral class and strong enrollment gains in female students and students from historically underrepresented communities and minoritized identities, CU Engineering is well-positioned to continue its upward trajectory.

Prospective students interested in joining CU Engineering’s growing doctoral programs can learn more and apply online.

For more information on the college and programs, visit our main engineering program page.

CU �鶹ӰԺ's College of Engineering and Applied Science welcomed its largest-ever cohort of doctoral students in 2024. With a 25% rise in PhD enrollment year-over-year, CU Engineering continues to solidify its reputation as a leader in graduate education, particularly among women and students from minoritized communities.

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Maria Pacheco empowers LGBTQ+ community through service leadership

Anonymous — Wed, 12 Jun 2024 18:20:58 +0000

Maria Pacheco empowers LGBTQ+ community through service leadership Anonymous (not verified) Wed, 06/12/2024 - 12:20

Charles Ferrer

Assistant Professor Maria Pacheco is driven to connect LGBTQ+ individuals with opportunities both in and outside of the classroom.

Pacheco, based in the Department of Computer Science, earned the 2024 Dr. Evelyn Hooker Advocacy Award presented by the Out in Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (oSTEM) organization at CU �鶹ӰԺ. oSTEM honors one faculty member or teaching assistant of the campus community annually who has inspired LGBTQ+ students through mentorship or research to flourish in STEM.

“Maria has been advocating to create a safe and welcoming environment for her students,” a statement from the oSTEM executive board said. “We are honored to give Maria the recognition she deserves for supporting the LGBTQ+ community on campus.”

Pacheco, although early in her tenured-track career, has already left an impactful mark on the students she serves. One of her students, Juan Vasquez, received mentorship even before he began his PhD journey.

“Dr. Pacheco supported me as a queer Latin American student in academia,” said Vasquez, “and she offered specific advice about how to face some particular issues I might encounter given my particular identity.”

That advice helped him land several PhD offers and grants, and now as one of her lab students, he sees how he’s improved as a researcher. Pacheco understands that queer PhD students come from diverse backgrounds and face unique challenges, and is always discussing how she can better support them, he notes.

“Her openness to diversity makes her an incredible asset to academia. True mentors foster their mentees’ strengths while also celebrating their unique identities,” said Vasquez.

Service through leadership

“My own motto is essentially to get involved so we can empower each other in our communities,” said Pacheco. “As a LGBTQ person myself, sometimes just serving in professional spaces is helpful for students.”

Pacheco, who wanted to be part of a queer community interested in AI/ML issues, first became connected with the Queer in AI organization as a graduate student at Purdue University.

Queer in AI is a global grassroots organization that raises awareness of queer issues in AI/ML through a community of queer scientists. She recommends any student who wants to connect to join their Slack group through Queer in AI where they can pitch ideas for workshops, bounce ideas for research opportunities, raise funds for conferences and network with industry and NGOs.

Pacheco is chairing the diversity and inclusion committee at the North American Chapter of the Association for Computational Linguistics (NAACL) taking place in Mexico City this summer, where she will provide support for the Latinx in AI and Queer in AI affinity groups. She expressed excitement since this is the first time the conference is being hosted in Latin America and expects strong participation from Latin American institutions.

She encourages students to submit their work in progress to affinity group workshops like LatinX in AI, Black in AI and Queer in AI, which are usually co-located with these larger, wider conferences like the NAACL and the International Conference on Machine Learning. She said it can be a welcoming and supporting environment for early career students and a stepping stone to publishing in the main conference.

Even if students are not ready to present, Pacheco hopes students can participate in conferences to connect and receive feedback from researchers in their community and meet people who share similar identities.

Inclusive advocacy

Through Pacheco’s collective leadership with other Queer in AI organizers, the group has focused on making professional conferences more inclusive. Conference organizers have laid out guidelines to add pronouns to name tags and publications. Her fellow organizers are starting to tackle the high costs for attending the conferences, a major pressure point for students and the community.

She maintains inclusive practices by hiring graduate students in her lab who belong to the LGBTQ+ community where individuals from many different communities can feel supported.

Then, there’s her research group, the �鶹ӰԺ Language and Social Technologies (BLAST). BLAST explores queer topics that are not usually at the forefront of research, but because she recruits students with diverse interests and backgrounds.

Her students draw from their personal experiences to inform their natural language processing research focusing in areas like education, media and journalism and views on economy at the national level.

Vazquez, her PhD student, is interested in going beyond hate speech detection and diving into the linguistic patterns of what constitutes hateful speech against LGBTQ+ folks and how it can be weaponized against vulnerable populations in Mexico.

“When you show up and start meeting folks, you start to band together with individuals who have shared interests,” said Pacheco, who is now one of the core organizers for the group.

Core organizers are researchers, graduate students or individuals from industry who are passionate about AI/ML who have academic backgrounds in computer science, engineering, robotics and neuroscience, among others.

Pacheco, who is in her first year as a faculty member, is balancing the role as an assistant professor, researcher, advocate and mentor.

“I think sometimes it’s hard because it feels like a lot of the service falls on us as well,” she said, “but at the same time, it is very rewarding to create these spaces for both yourself, peers and students, so I’d say it’s really worth it.”

�鶹ӰԺ the Dr. Evelyn Hooker Advocacy Award

oSTEM presents the Dr. Evelyn Hooker Advocacy Award to commemorate an individual’s work and emphasize the importance of advocacy. Nominees are selected by CU �鶹ӰԺ students and alumni, and the winner will be selected by a diverse board of staff from the BOLD Center, Center of Inclusion and Social Change and the College of Arts and Sciences.

Assistant Professor Maria Pacheco from the Department of Computer Science earned the 2024 Dr. Evelyn Hooker Advocacy Award for her leadership in supporting LGBTQ+ students at CU �鶹ӰԺ.

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Osamah Dehwah: BOLD service from tutor to PhD graduate

Anonymous — Thu, 23 May 2024 06:00:00 +0000

Osamah Dehwah: BOLD service from tutor to PhD graduate Anonymous (not verified) Thu, 05/23/2024 - 00:00

Charles Ferrer

Osamah Dehwah has called the BOLD Center home for the past five years. His passion in helping students academically succeed is a testament to his service for the BOLD community all while working on his PhD in civil engineering.

“When I started my PhD at CU �鶹ӰԺ in 2018, I was looking for a place where I could teach and hone in those skills,” said Dehwah, “and was introduced to BOLD. The diversity and welcoming manner of the Center impressed me from the beginning.”

That environment immediately drew Dehwah and felt a strong affinity to give back to aspiring engineers through their learning.

“Osamah has been an instrumental member of the BOLD community and supported hundreds of undergraduate engineering students in academic tutoring,” said Chantal Baca, Academic Services Program Manager.

“His joy, passionate teaching and engineering intelligence has served the student and staff community greatly,” said Baca.

Since 2019, he has tutored numerous courses in physics, calculus, differential equations, fluid mechanics, statics, structural analysis, construction management and more.

“Osamah is such an important example of a student leader in BOLD and the commitment to our community,” said Amy Moreno-Sherwood, director of the BOLD Center.

Moreno-Sherwood added how pivotal Dehwah has been in ensuring high-quality tutoring for a number of years and sought new opportunities for undergraduate students.

“We’re very grateful Osamah has been willing to lead exam preparation and study sessions for the BOLD community,” said Moreno-Sherwood.

Dehwah earned his PhD this spring coming full circle with his academic journey. Later this year, he will work at NIST and while pursuing a postdoc in civil engineering at John Hopkins University regarding durability of concrete materials.

We sat down with Dehwah to reflect on his CU Engineering experience and service with the BOLD Center.

How did your academic journey begin?
My interest in science and knowledge was nurtured by my family. My father is a professor and I have three siblings with PhDs. I was raised in the esteemed scientific and research environment of King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals in Saudi Arabia, where I completed both my bachelor’s and master’s degrees. I enjoyed the privilege of interacting with many world-class researchers throughout my life and this has played a major role in shaping my interests in research and academia.

How did you first get involved at the BOLD Center?
I asked my colleagues about programs or departments where I could share my experience and knowledge for STEM. So, I began my journey at the BOLD Center in January 2019, and more than five years later, I’ve been so grateful for the experience!

What aspects of the BOLD Center are meaningful to you?
Tutoring is the most important aspect for me, as I believe teaching is a noble profession. Despite the wealth of knowledge available online, the need for teachers and in-person instruction remains crucial. The experiences and outcomes of in-person teaching differ significantly from online methods and this varies across different fields. As a result of my passion for education, I served as a lead tutor for the Center and as a teaching assistant for a scholarship program. I was involved in the tutors’ hiring process, particularly in advancing interview processes to ensure high-quality tutoring.

Moreover, the competitive scholarships provided for underrepresented students in engineering are both encouraging and greatly assist students in need. These scholarships open doors for students offering them opportunities in higher education and career advancement they might not have had otherwise.

What about civil engineering fascinates you?
Everywhere you go, you’re in the hands of civil engineers. From the houses we live in to the hospitals we rely on and the roads we travel to the bridges that connect our cities — civil engineering is an omnipresent and fascinating field. It demands critical thinking and a deep understanding of engineering principles.

In your opinion, what is an important aspect with civil engineering?
One of the most pressing global challenges in this field is the durability of concrete. Inadequate concrete rehabilitation can lead to severe issues like cracking and, consequently, structural failure. This significant problem sparked my interest in specializing in structures and materials with a particular focus on concrete durability. My goal is to contribute to longer-lasting structures that can withstand the test of time.

What are your research interests within civil engineering?
My research interests lie at the intersection of science and engineering with a particular focus on concrete materials and computational mechanics. One of the primary objectives of my research is CO2 sequestration, an area where I have already made contributions through a published paper in the American Society of Civil Engineers’ Journal of Engineering Mechanics. This work examines the long-term performance of cementitious materials in the context of CO2 sequestration, where a new approach was introduced to rehabilitate concrete by injecting nanoparticles using electric currents.

I am committed to advancing the development of durable construction materials. My research delves into understanding the long-term performance of concrete and the intricate interplay between humidity, temperature and transport properties. By identifying and implementing mitigation techniques, I aim to enhance the durability of concrete structures. In addition, I have authored scholarly articles in this field — concrete durability — and its implications for sustainable infrastructure.

How do you hope your research in concrete durability can impact society?
The impact of my research extends beyond academia to society at large. Concrete is among the most widely used materials in construction and enhancing its durability can contribute significantly to environmental sustainability. By reducing the need for frequent repair and rehabilitation, durable concrete not only conserves Earth’s resources, but also minimizes costs associated with infrastructure upkeep. My research endeavors strive to address critical challenges in construction materials and contribute to a safer, more sustainable built environment.

Who are some individuals who have supported you along the way?
My father, Professor Hamoud Dehwah, has always been my role model and source of inspiration. Following in his footsteps, I chose a career in the same field. Now, as I finished my PhD in civil engineering, I am profoundly grateful for this path. My gratitude also extends to my mother and siblings, who have always been encouraging, providing emotional support that buoyed me through challenging times. I owe thanks to my advisor, Professor Yunping Xi and the Department of Civil, Architectural & Environmental Engineering for their consistent assistance. I am also grateful to my brother, Dr. Ammar Dehwah, my companion on this journey, as we pursued our PhDs together in the same department at CU �鶹ӰԺ.

Osamah Dehwah has called the BOLD Center home for the past five years as a tutor and helped hundreds of aspiring engineers. He graduated with his PhD in civil engineering and reflected on his experience with the BOLD Center.

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Unstoppable: Gabrielle Dunn honored as overall Outstanding Undergraduate of the College

Anonymous — Thu, 09 May 2024 16:48:03 +0000

Unstoppable: Gabrielle Dunn honored as overall Outstanding Undergraduate of the College Anonymous (not verified) Thu, 05/09/2024 - 10:48

Dunn was a peer mentor with the BOLD Center in spring 2021 and was honored as Outstanding Undergraduate of the College.

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There are more women in CU �鶹ӰԺ’s class of freshman engineering students than anywhere else in the US

Anonymous — Wed, 08 May 2024 15:00:05 +0000

There are more women in CU �鶹ӰԺ’s class of freshman engineering students than anywhere else in the US Anonymous (not verified) Wed, 05/08/2024 - 09:00

CU �鶹ӰԺ leads the nation in the percentage of female first-year students, according to the American Society for Engineering Education. The college’s BOLD Center, which houses the Society of Women Engineers offers mentorship and career development opportunities.

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AAPI: All New Year Festival dazzles through culture and community

Anonymous — Mon, 29 Apr 2024 06:00:00 +0000

AAPI: All New Year Festival dazzles through culture and community Anonymous (not verified) Mon, 04/29/2024 - 00:00

Charles Ferrer

The numerous heritages among the Asian American and Pacific Islanders (AAPI) community was on full display at the AAPI: All New Year Festival at CU �鶹ӰԺ in early April.

More than 450 people attended the event, which featured important cultural aspects through art, music, dance, language and cuisine.

“It was such an amazing experience,” said Emily Landingham, a graduating student in molecular, cellular and developmental biology. “This event brought students, family members, staff and all different cultures of the AAPI community together. I hope this strengthens the AAPI community on campus.”

From taekwondo martial arts performances, South Asian fusion dance and Indian classical dancing to live music in Nepalese, the festival was an evening of cultural celebration showcasing the wide diversity of the AAPI identity. Plus, anyone who came hungry was treated to cuisines like dumplings, paneer, curry, eggs rolls, sushi and edamame.

Cross campus culture collaboration

Hosted by CU �鶹ӰԺ’s Society of Asian Scientists and Engineers (SASE), the student society was inspired by Chinese and Vietnamese New Year, which traditionally takes place in either January or February.

“We realized that a lot of our members, despite being under the umbrella of being Asian, are diverse in many backgrounds,” said Helen Do, vice president of culture for SASE. “We wanted to create a festival that gave opportunities for organizations to share traditions of other AAPI identities in a space that everyone feels they belong and thrive in. ”

Planning started in the fall semester, when they secured sponsors through the Cultural Events Board, CU Student Government and the Paul M. Rady Department of Mechanical Engineering.

SASE also partnered with other BOLD Center organizations, such as oSTEM, Women in Aeronautics and Astronautics (WOAA) and the American Association of Engineers of Indian Origin (AAEIO), as well as student groups from across campus.

“Seeing all the different organizations from across campus bringing the event to life really made me happy,” said Landingham. “Especially when a lot of these organizations hadn’t really interacted before, it was great to see everyone learn from each other and bring their own members to this celebration.”

Beyond wanting to create a fun and inviting event, the festival was an opportunity for learning and inclusivity.

Do noted how collaborating with other student societies, Asian-identifying or not, was important to AAPI student groups space to share their cultures and also for non-AAPI student groups to learn about another culture in preparation for the event.

“We were especially grateful to oSTEM and WOAA, who ran our calligraphy and henna stations,” said Do. “They took a lot of care and research about the art and cultures they were representing at the event.”

Learning through culture and community

Attendees were able to get a cultural glimpse of traditions from countries including China, Korea, India, Myanmar, Philippines, Japan, Vietnam and Nepal.

Through the help of the festival collaborators, “student groups ran different booths representing countries,” said Kelly Clingan, public relations officer of SASE. “It was incredible seeing people learning about our traditions through joy and positivity.”

“We wanted an event that was representative of those different cultures and that we would really do them justice, because even within an Asian organization, we definitely can overlook specific parts of each culture,” said Clingan. “We’re so happy this festival celebrated AAPI cultures throughout campus.”

If you’re excited to learn more about AAPI cultures, you’re in luck. SASE plans to hold this festival next spring with the hopes of bringing community through more culture and celebration.

Photo Credit: Marleigh Hill; Top Photo: CU Milana; Middle Photo: CU Abhinaya

Noteworthy

The Center for Student Involvement and Colorado Creed recognizes student organizations who exemplify leadership and engagement across campus and the �鶹ӰԺ community.

Congratulations to SASE for receiving the following 2024 Campus Involvement Awards!

Cultural Event of the Year Award - AAPI: All New Year Festival
Student Organization of the Year Award - Society of Asian Scientists and Engineers
Rising Star Award - Kelly Clingan (Public Relations Chair)

Photo Credit: Center for Student Involvement; Society of Asian Scientists and Engineers at the Campus Involvement Awards Ceremony 2024

The Society of Asian Scientists and Engineers at CU �鶹ӰԺ organized a campus AAPI: All New Year Festival in early April. More than 450 people attended the cultural celebration, which featured important cultural aspects through art, music, dance, language and cuisine.

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Meet Our Undergrads: Ada Forsner of WOAA

Anonymous — Wed, 24 Apr 2024 19:09:59 +0000

Meet Our Undergrads: Ada Forsner of WOAA Anonymous (not verified) Wed, 04/24/2024 - 13:09

Charles Ferrer

We sat down with fourth-year aerospace engineering student Ada Forsner, who is also minoring in space and engineering management, to share about her CU Engineering experience!

Ada serves as the Internal Coordinator for the Women of Aeronautics and Astronautics (WOAA) at CU �鶹ӰԺ for the 2023-2024 school year.

What inspired you to pursue a STEM-related major?
In high school I enjoyed taking vehicle shop classes and introductory engineering courses which really got me interested in what engineering could be. Growing up with Legos and playing with trucks and tow cars got me really interested in STEM in general.

When did you know that aerospace engineering was meant for you?
I always loved space, but I never knew to what extent until I took an astronomy course in high school back in Illinois and fell in love with the idea of space. That’s how I knew I would go try to pursue aerospace engineering.

What are some of your future plans after graduating?
I hope to be a systems engineer, which is a kind of engineering that requires a top down view of the entirety of any project. I love airplanes, spacecraft and space itself, as well as studying atmospheric effects and other planets. Becoming a systems engineer allows me to pretty much work on any aspect of aerospace.

What has been an eye opening experience as a student leader of WOAA?
Our first conference we organized in the Aerospace Building during the fall semester was one of the biggest memorable experiences. Being a part of planning the conference opened my eyes to what we can provide for other students and how I can help them grow in ways that I want to grow, as well. Hosting that conference allowed us to learn how to communicate and interact with professionals working in industry, which are important for all of us to gain.

Why should someone join WOAA?
We create a really open community to all women in STEM, not just those studying aerospace. This might be cliche, but literally joining a club, any club, does make a difference and it helps you gain leadership experience. Most freshmen may not have too much on their resume, but being part of WOAA and other clubs can help you build your resume. We make sure to provide opportunities for students to put themselves out there by talking with professionals and getting in contact with them. It can be scary at times, but it doesn’t have to be!

What are other campus organizations you’re a part of?
I used to be a part of the Hiking Club, which I highly recommend anyone join. That club inspired me to do more of my own hiking. Being a course assistant for a freshman engineering projects course has helped me become a leader in the classroom and provide guidance for younger students.

What has been an intriguing engineering class you’ve taken so far?
This one was hard to answer! I would have to say engineering economics, which is part of my engineering management minor. At first, I thought I was not going to enjoy it, but I've actually ended up learning so much from it. It’s encouraged me to do my own research on finance, sustainability, business and how it connects with my personal life and engineering.

Anything else on your CU �鶹ӰԺ bucket list you hope to check off?
This one’s embarrassing, but I haven’t been to a CU football game yet! I have one more fall season to figure it out.

We hear you’re an avid reader. Any shameless plugs on a book you recommend for others?
Last semester, I read “True North” by Bill George. The book has helped me find my path in life and I’ve learned to follow a path no matter what other people make you think. That really opened my eyes and has made me more confident with who I am.

We sat down with fourth-year aerospace engineering student Ada Forsner, who is the internal coordinator of WOAA, to share about her CU Engineering experience!

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