Five CHEE Faculty Recognized at 2023 College Awards

The 2023 College of Engineering staff and faculty awards recognized achievements in the realms of teaching, leadership and other areas. In addition to celebrating outstanding work, the 11 staff and faculty awards totaled $15,500. 

CHEE program manager Holly Altman and CHEE graduate program coordinator Grace Fuller shared the William P. Cosart Award for exemplary service. The award is named after William Cosart, who worked as a professor, dean and acting department head in the College of Engineering for several decades. 

Altman and Fuller have worked both as a team and separately to advance CHEE’s success and reputation. Altman was instrumental in securing re-accreditation from ABET, and Fuller’s organizational skills and kindness have improved graduate orientation and advising.

Additionally, CHEE undergraduate advisor Lori Huggins won the award for Outstanding Advisor/Mentor for leadership to a team or in the college overall, innovation and problem-solving, and caring support of students. 

CHEE University Distinguished Professor Paul Blowers won the faculty award for Teacher of the Year for tenure track professors. 

CHEE Professor Reyes Sierra-Alvarez won the faculty award for Researcher of the Year. Sierra-Alvarez's research includes anaerobic wastewater treatment and biological nutrient removal, and bioremediation of nitroaromatic explosives and heavy metals, among others.