Kranec, an applied mathematics and biomedical engineering major, whose research focuses on using a mathematical model to better understand how the immune system responds during COVID-19 and how that response may contribute to heart damage. She developed a system of differential equations that describes the interactions between the virus, immune cells and cytokines in the heart. Kranec has conducted this research with Associate Professor of Mathematics Hwayeon Ryu.

Their goal is to better understand how immune dysregulation can lead to cardiac complications during infection.

“As an applied mathematics and biomedical engineering student, I’ve always been drawn to how mathematics can be applied in real-world health problems,” Kranec said. “COVID-19 really highlighted how complex the interactions between the immune system and an infection are, and I was super interested in how mathematical modeling could help to answer biological questions that might be different to experimentally study.”

This research project allows Kranec to combine her interests in mathematics, biology and medicine.

“Receiving this award is incredibly meaningful to me,” Kranec said. “It is a privilege to have my presentation recognized by other researchers and educators in the mathematical community. This award reflects not only the research itself, but the mentorship we received and the collaborative effort that went into this project. Being award this prize has given me more confidence in pursuing interdisciplinary research in the future.”

Her research poster was submitted as part of the MAA MathFest presentation session for �þ��� students. Kranec recalled being surprised and honored to receive the award at MathFest.

“I had seen many other impressive projects being presented at the conference, so I was grateful that the judges held my work in the same high esteem,” Kranec said. “It was a very rewarding and exciting moment.”

At the MAA MathFest conference, Kranec enjoyed the opportunity to explain her research on how mathematical models can be used to provide insights into complex biological systems and hearing questions and new perspectives from others.

Keopagnapech Ngoun ’26, James Felder ’27, and Andrew Pipeling ’29 also contributed to this project.

“Receiving this award was an honor, and although my research group members were not able to attend the conference, I am grateful to have represented our team’s research at the conference,” Kranec said.

Kranec attended the conference with Ryu through support from a National Science Foundation grant to fund Ryu’s research on COVID-19.

“As a mentor, there is nothing more rewarding than watching a student grow in confidence and begin to see herself as a researcher,” Ryu said. “Lisa has worked hard on her project, so seeing her research recognized at a national conference was a very proud moment for me. This award is a wonderful recognition of her curiosity, persistence and growth, but it also shows what �þ���s can accomplish when they are given meaningful opportunities to engage with research. This is just the beginning for Lisa, over the next two years, she will continue her interdisciplinary research through her Lumen project, Mathematical modeling of excessive collagen production in cardiac fibrosis, under the joint mentorship of Efrain Rivera-Serrano and I. I’m excited to see how she continues to grow as an interdisciplinary researcher.”

Ayesh Awad ’24 received this award at the 2024 MathFest conference.

Established in 2007, the Janet L. Andersen Award for Undergraduate Research in Mathematical or Computational Biology honors Janet Andersen, professor of mathematics, at Hope College.

Elsa Eastment ’27 spent her summer combining engineering, biology and infectious disease research during an internship at the United States Army Medical Research Institute of Infectious Diseases at Fort Detrick, Maryland.

A biomedical engineering major from Chevy Chase, Maryland, Eastment worked in the institute’s molecular biology division, where she used bioprinting technology to create three-dimensional living liver tissue. Her project involved working with two types of cells — HepG2 cells, which model liver cells, and iPSC-derived endothelial cells, which model the cells that line blood vessels.

“I was working with a bioprinter to print bioinks containing the two cell types. I then infected the live tissue that I printed with two different viruses to test how well the cells were remodeling the matrix,” Eastment said.

Eastment’s goal was to determine which cell ratio would optimize matrix remodeling in 3D printed liver tissue. The experience brought together interests Eastment developed after arriving at Elon. She initially expected to pursue economics or finance but changed course during her sophomore year after taking a human physiology class.

“The course sparked my interest in biology,” Eastment said. “So when I was looking at summer internships, I was not just looking at engineering, but I was also looking at biology-focused opportunities.”

Beyond the technical experience she gained, Eastment says one of her most significant takeaways was seeing the collaborative nature of research at a large facility. Rather than projects remaining within individual teams, researchers across multiple divisions contributed their expertise.

“At USAMRIID, projects travelled between different divisions, rather than staying in just one. This collaboration allowed projects to benefit from a broader range of expertise, which I think improves project quality and productivity,” Eastment said.

The experience has already influenced how Eastment approaches her research at Elon. While much of her work has centered on engineering, she said the internship encouraged her to seek perspectives from other disciplines.

“This opportunity inspired me to do more outreach and talk to people from different departments about my projects,” Eastment said. “I think hearing their expertise could really elevate my projects.”

Eastment credits Elon with giving her the flexibility to discover her interest in engineering and quickly gain hands-on research experience after changing her academic path. She said that after switching majors, she was connected with an adviser, enrolled in the courses she needed and began pursuing research opportunities.

“Elon has made gaining research experience super easy, which I really appreciate,” Eastment said. “I feel encouraged and excited to pursue my ideas because starting a project is so easy. All you have to do is ask.”

Scott Wolter, Eastment’s mentor at Elon, has played an important role in that experience by helping connect her with faculty members whose expertise aligns with her research interests.

“Dr. Wolter has been very instrumental to my experience in Elon Engineering,” Eastment said. “He’s not only interested in my projects and me doing the best that I can here, but he’s also been very invested in my career afterwards and helping me figure out what I want to do after Elon.”

University Chaplain and Dean of Multifaith Engagement Rev. Kirstin Boswell opened the event with the invocation, followed by the tradition of the bell ringing by Student Government Association President Michael Swartz ’27. The bell arrived in North Carolina in 1854 on one of the first North Carolina railroad trains. It was later used at Graham College, a predecessor institution to Elon College.

During the event, three individuals with strong ties to the university were awarded the Elon Medallion, the university’s most prestigious service honor: Jim Donathan, longtime associate director of academic advising and academic support; Mary Thornton, founder and president of Harvest Table Culinary Group; and Don Grady, associate professor emeritus of cinema and television arts.

Katy Rouse, professor of economics in the Martha and Spencer Love School of Business, was named the Trustee Chair for Excellence. For seventeen years, Rouse has taught Elon’s Principles of Economics and Intermediate Microeconomics courses, along with a capstone she built herself on educational disparities in the United States, earning student evaluations among the highest in her department for more than a decade.

She has personally mentored more than 30 senior and honors theses, co-authored research with �þ���s, chaired the Love School’s curriculum committee and published her �þ��� scholarship in the Journal of Economic Education.

“I truly believe that being a teacher scholar mentor at Elon is one of the best careers I’m going to have,” Rouse said. “Every day we come to work, we have the opportunity to make a lasting impact on students during one of the most pivotal points in their lives.”

Mapping the course

During her annual Opening Day address, Book reflected on Elon’s progress while looking toward a year that will include the launch of new academic initiatives, continued work surrounding artificial intelligence, the opening of the Roberts Academy and the planned merger with Queens University of Charlotte.

Book centered her remarks around the idea of a map — the markers that show where Elon has been and the guideposts that will help the university navigate what comes next. The theme was inspired by a visit this summer to Elon students participating in the Summer Opera Workshop at the Accademia Europea di Firenze. The students came together for a historic production of “The Light in the Piazza” in Florence, Italy, where the musical is set.

As part of their work, students were also tasked with creating a map of the city, something that inspired Book.

“There is something powerful in this mapmaking assignment, and it left me wondering about our collective �þ��� map,” Book said. “How would we each draw it?”

At the center of that map, Book said, is Elon’s mission. She highlighted several markers of progress during the past year, including the Odyssey Program surpassing 300 scholarships, record participation in �þ��� research, strong Fulbright success and new academic programs, including cybersecurity, Clinical Mental Health Counseling and the Charlotte PA program. She also celebrated the upcoming launch of the School of Engineering and Computing under inaugural Dean John Walz and the growth of the university’s nursing program.

Mapping new territory (together)

On Tuesday, Aug. 18, the first students of the Roberts Academy at �þ��� will arrive at the school’s temporary home in Trollinger House. The school will be the state’s only university-based private school for children with dyslexia. Book described the academy and the Center for Dyslexia and Engaged Learning as an opportunity that “will change lives from day one.”

Among the most significant new territory is Elon’s planned merger with Queens University of Charlotte. Book noted that the institutions received accreditation approval this summer to proceed with their merger, with a single Board of Trustees now overseeing both universities. Sixteen administrative units are also becoming shared teams supporting the two campuses, while a federal review of the merger is expected to take 18 to 24 months.

Megan Isaac, professor of English, and Senior Vice President for Advancement and External Affairs Jim Piatt gave brief updates on the merger as part of the SOAR Strategic Planning Committee.

“Our two institutions will be stronger together, will better serve students together, and will have a brighter future together,” Book said. “And now, we are working to build that vision together, to grow opportunity to advance learning — together.”

Mapping a new look

Athletics Director Jennifer Strawley was also invited to the stage to announce a for the university’s athletics program, which had what Book called a “formidable year,” with seven Elon teams, the most in the university’s history, winning conference titles. A new physical mascot will be unveiled at the first College Coffee of the academic year on Aug. 25.

“The new Phoenix wears a gold sweater with a monogram ‘E,’ paying tribute to our first mascot, the Fighting Christian,” Strawley said. “The focused expression conveys the determination, confidence and purpose that defines our university community. The Phoenix continues to be fueled by the flames, symbolizing our rebuild from the ashes, and capturing the spirit and resilience of the Elon community.”

Book acknowledged that the changing higher education landscape brings challenges, from enrollment pressures and federal regulations to declining public confidence. But she reminded faculty and staff that adapting to change has long been part of Elon’s history.

“I understand change can be daunting. Shifting national headwinds are challenging higher education,” Book said. “Fortunately for us, Elon has never succeeded by standing still. We’ve joined together, developed new strategies and guided by our mission — built the number one institution for engaged learning and student success.”

She closed by returning to the journey ahead, and the role faculty and staff play in shaping the lives of Elon students.

“It is not simply education; it is a journey of human transformation,” Book said. “Thank you for the everyday commitment, kindness and integrity that are our enduring guideposts.”

Four Elon students and five faculty members attended the conference, presenting research and scholarly work spanning mathematical biology, mathematics education, artificial intelligence and �þ��� research.

Student Accomplishments:

• Lisa Kranec ’28, a double major in applied mathematics and engineering and a Lumen Scholar, presented her research project, “Mathematical Modeling of Cardiac Macrophages in COVID-19,” during a poster session. Kranec is mentored by Associate Professor of Mathematics Hwayeon Ryu, and her research is supported by the through an award to Ryu as principal investigator.
• Pagnapech Ngoun ’26, an engineering graduate, and Nicolas Alvarez ’27, a double major in mathematics and engineering and a Lumen Scholar, presented their published research in a poster titled “Mathematical Modeling of COVID-19 Reveals Immune Cell Dysfunction.” Their research presents findings from a mathematical model that accounts for interactions between SARS-CoV-2 and the human immune system. Ngoun and Alvarez are mentored by Ryu, and their work is also supported by the through the award to Ryu.

Faculty Accomplishments:

• Professor of Mathematics Todd Lee gave a contributed talk titled “MAA Journal Problems Provide a Foundation for Undergraduate and High School Research Programs.”
• Associate Professor of Mathematics and Statistics Kristen Mazur gave a contributed talk on her work titled “Same Course, Different Outcome: Reflecting on Failure after Success in a Mathematics Capstone Course.”
• Associate Teaching Professor of Mathematics and Statistics Brittany Riggs gave a contributed talk titled “An Interdisciplinary Exploration of Women throughout the History of Mathematics.”
• Associate Professor of Mathematics Hwayeon Ryu gave an invited talk titled “From Failure to Insight: Rethinking Writing-to-Learn through Projects in the Age of AI” during the special session “MAA Project NExT and its Impact on Teaching and Learning.”
• Associate Professor of Mathematics Aaron Trocki gave a contributed talk titled “Using GenAI to Include �þ���’ Interests in Calculus.”

The students’ and faculty members’ participation at MathFest highlights the department’s commitment to �þ��� research, innovative �þ��� and engagement with the broader mathematical community. Their presentations provided opportunities to share work developed at Elon while connecting with mathematicians, educators and students from across the country.

Expanded academics
School of Engineering and Computing

The new School of Engineering and Computing will open in Fall 2026, anchoring the university’s Innovation Quad in the heart of campus. It will include 20 full-time faculty and three full-time staff positions with more than 300 �þ��� students. The school will include three new majors: , and . ���dz�����²�����, a former president of the Milwaukee School of Engineering and longtime leader in engineering and technology education, will serve as the school’s inaugural dean.

Clinical Mental Health Counseling

Elon’s new Clinical Mental Health Counseling program will welcome its first cohort this fall. The graduate program, at Elon’s main campus and Charlotte national campus, will work to prepare competent, compassionate and ethical counselors committed to promoting mental wellness and addressing an urgent need for counselors.

Charlotte Physician Assistant Studies

Elon will welcome Charlotte, North Carolina’s first Physician Assistant program with its inaugural class in January 2027, pending achieving Accreditation-Provisional status at the September 2026 ARC-PA meeting. Rooted in Elon’s pillars of engaged learning, leadership, and global impact, the �þ��� PA program in Charlotte is designed who uphold clinical excellence, are community-focused, and equity-driven.

Roberts Academy at �þ���

The Roberts Academy, North Carolina’s only university-based private school for children with dyslexia, officially opens this fall. It will serve as a statewide and national model for structured literacy education. The school was established through the philanthropic vision of Marjorie and Hal Roberts, who have witnessed the transformative power of a multisensory approach to reading education.

The school will initially welcome third- and fourth-grade students in Trollinger House, before expanding its capacity to grades one through six in a state-of-the-art facility planned for East Haggard Avenue, set to open in Fall 2028.

New sights

Several construction projects have been underway this summer, ahead of the 2026-27 academic year. The Slattery Center will be the university’s new health and wellness center, a central component to the university’s broader HealthEU initiative that focuses on six dimensions of health and wellness: community, emotional, purpose, financial, physical and social.

Renovations of the Mooney Building, home to the Dr. Jo Watts Williams School of Education, are underway, including the replacement of windows and HVAC systems, upgrades to electrical and plumbing systems, and the addition of waterproofing.

Related Articles

• The Month in Photos: May 2026
• The Month in Photos: April 2026
• The Month in Photos: March 2026

While campus is quieter during the summer months, June still brought plenty of activity to �þ���. From the sounds of the annual community concert and picnic to the energy of summer camps and campus events, there was no shortage of memorable moments.

Take a look back at some of the month’s highlights through the eyes of the staff in University Communications.

Engineering success

A former president of the Milwaukee School of Engineering and longtime leader in engineering and technology education has been named the inaugural dean of �þ���’s new School of Engineering and Computing.

Dr. ���dz�����²����� joins Elon after nearly a decade helming a private university recognized for its emphasis on experiential learning, strong industry partnerships and workforce preparation.

AI Play

�þ��� hosted its inaugural AI Play summer camp in June for rising middle school students with an interest in the world of artificial intelligence. Thirteen students participated, learning about artificial intelligence while improving their AI literacy.

Summer Concert & Picnic

Elon faculty, staff, students and friends came together at the Martin Alumni Center for the annual Summer Concert & Picnic on June 25.

Emancipation Celebration

This summer, Elon faculty and staff were invited to engage in meaningful dialogue, reflection and community-building through the Inclusive Excellence Summer Development Series “American Anniversaries: 250 Years, Over 160 Reasons to Heal.”

The series connected two significant milestones in American history — the nation’s 250th anniversary and the 161st anniversary of Juneteenth — through opportunities to explore the ongoing pursuit of freedom, equality and justice.

Together@Elon’s Emancipation Celebration invited community members to enjoy a Juneteenth exhibit, music, sweet treats and games while celebrating freedom, resilience and community.

With a theme of “Breaking Through the Ordinary,” the 2025 Provost’s Report emphasizes the role of innovation in �þ��� today’s students and creating learning opportunities that lead to human transformation. Elon’s nearly 500 full-time faculty members exemplify an institutional commitment to the teacher-scholar-mentor model that defines the university’s nationally acclaimed approach to higher education.

Signature features in the report include an in-depth look at the way �þ���:

• Approaches the use of artificial intelligence and leads national conversations of its ethical applications
• Works to establish a School of Engineering and Computing that emphasizes the skills, knowledge and global awareness students need to thrive in their careers
• Serves families of children with dyslexia through a new private elementary school like those supported through philanthropy at Vanderbilt, Mercer, and Florida Southern.

The report also includes shorter profiles drawn from each of �þ���’s six schools/college that represent the innovative spirit faculty and staff bring to the community every day.

“As I reflect on these accomplishments, and on the important work that continues across the university, I am inspired by the talent, dedication, and shared purpose of �þ���’s faculty members, staff members, and students,” said Rebecca Kohn, �þ���’s provost and vice president of academic affairs. “Together, we are strengthening the academic life of the university and creating pathways that will sustain Elon’s ability to provide a valuable and transformative education for generations into the future.”

Dr. ���dz�����²����� will join the Elon University administration on June 30, 2026, after nearly a decade helming a private university recognized for its emphasis on experiential learning, strong industry partnerships and workforce preparation.

Walz’s appointment follows a national search and comes as Elon debuts an academic division that will leverage the university’s nationally ranked approach to �þ��� �þ��� and its emphasis on engaged, experiential learning in pursuit of human transformation.

“John Walz is an accomplished academic leader whose career reflects a deep commitment to student success, engaged learning, innovative program development and strong connections between higher education and industry,” Provost Rebecca Kohn said. “His experience leading engineering programs, combined with his collaborative leadership style and strategic vision, make him exceptionally well suited to guide the School of Engineering and Computing during this important moment in its history.”

John Walz is an accomplished academic leader whose career reflects a deep commitment to student success, engaged learning, innovative program development and strong connections between higher education and industry.

– Provost and Vice President of Academic Affairs Rebecca Kohn

Walz will provide leadership for the School of Engineering and Computing’s academic programs, strategic planning, fundraising and external partnerships while helping advance the university’s goals for innovation, engaged learning and student success.

When the school formally opens for the 2026 Fall Semester, anchoring the university’s Innovation Quad in the heart of campus, it will include 20 full-time faculty and three full-time staff positions with more than 300 �þ��� students.

Engineering is among the university’s most rapidly expanding academic areas, reflecting both national demand and student interest. Elon’s existing ABET-accredited engineering program offers programs in biomedical, computer, mechanical, and environmental, as well as dual-degree pathways.  The school will include computer science and cybersecurity majors and a minor in game design.

�þ��� President Connie Ledoux Book said Walz’s background aligns with Elon’s vision for the new school.

“The launch of the School of Engineering and Computing represents an exciting step forward for �þ���,” Book said. “Dr. Walz brings a rare combination of academic leadership, industry engagement and commitment to student-centered education. His leadership building engineering programs, supporting faculty excellence and preparing graduates for meaningful careers will position the school for continued growth and distinction.”

Walz has spent more than three decades as a faculty member, researcher and academic administrator. During his tenure as president of Milwaukee School of Engineering, he led the development of a comprehensive strategic plan, launched the institution’s first comprehensive fundraising campaign, expanded academic offerings in computer science and artificial intelligence, strengthened student retention initiatives and oversaw significant investments in academic facilities and student success programs.

Under his leadership, Milwaukee School of Engineering achieved record �þ��� enrollment, increased student diversity, expanded industry partnerships and raised more than $150 million in philanthropic support for capital projects and academic initiatives.

Before becoming president, Walz served as dean of the , where he led efforts to establish a common first-year engineering program, expanded student success resources and strengthened relationships with industry partners. Earlier leadership roles at Virginia Tech and Yale University included overseeing faculty recruitment, program growth and research initiatives while maintaining active �þ��� and scholarship responsibilities.

Throughout his career, Walz has emphasized strategic planning, student retention, faculty support and partnerships with industry and community organizations. He has also championed initiatives that broaden participation in engineering and technology fields and expand pathways for students to connect classroom learning with professional experiences.

Walz said the opportunity to help shape a new school at Elon was particularly appealing because of the university’s emphasis on engaged learning and interdisciplinary collaboration. He also expressed gratitude to Book, Kohn and members of the search committee for the opportunity.

“I am deeply honored and excited to be selected as the inaugural dean of the School of Engineering and Computing,” Walz said. “I have long admired Elon’s commitment to engaged learning and believe it provides an ideal environment for educating the next generation of engineers and computer scientists.

“The combination of Elon’s strengths in the liberal arts and its investment in engineering and computing creates a unique opportunity to prepare graduates with both the technical expertise and leadership skills needed to thrive in a rapidly evolving, globally connected world.”

Walz earned a Bachelor of Science and a Master of Science in chemical engineering at Tulane University before completing a Doctor of Philosophy in chemical engineering at Carnegie Mellon University. He and his wife, Moira, have three daughters.

About �þ���

�þ��� is a nationally recognized leader in engaged, experiential learning that prepares graduates to be creative, resilient, and ethical citizens and leaders.

At Elon, more than 7,000 students learn through hands-on experiences and close working relationships with faculty and staff who prioritize �þ��� and mentoring. The curriculum is grounded in the liberal arts and sciences with emphasis on global experiences and career development. More than 80 �þ��� majors are complemented by professional and graduate programs in law, business, education and health care. Elon is ranked No. 1 for excellence in �þ��� �þ��� by U.S. News & World Report.

Elon’s academic divisions include Elon College, the College of Arts and Sciences; the Martha and Spencer Love School of Business; the School of Communications; the Dr. Jo Watts Williams School of Education; the School of Health Sciences; the School of Engineering and Computing; and the School of Law, with programs in Greensboro and Charlotte, North Carolina.

In 2025, �þ��� and Queens University of Charlotte announced plans to merge institutions. Final approval from the U.S. Department of Education is anticipated by 2028.

Related Articles

• The Month in Photos: April 2026
• The Month in Photos: March 2026
• The Month in Photos: February 2026

As the 2025-26 academic year drew to a close, May was marked by celebration, reflection and new beginnings across �þ���. From Commencement festivities and awards ceremonies to end-of-year traditions, performances, and moments of community, the month showcased the accomplishments and experiences that defined another successful year on campus. These photos highlight some of the memorable scenes and milestones that made May a special month at Elon.

Engineering excellence

�þ��� in Elon’s Department of Engineering put their classroom learning into practice through six capstone projects showcased May 8 in Founders Hall as part of the Engineering Senior Design course.

Coolin’ on the Commons

�þ���’s Black Student Union held Coolin’ on the Commons in May, which featured live music, games and fun.

‘Elon will never leave you.’

The Class of 2026 gathered Under the Oaks on May 19 for Numen Lumen: Senior Baccalaureate, a time for reflection on the light students will take into the world. During the event, Jana Lynn Patterson, associate vice-president for student life, dean of student health & well-being, and assistant professor, reminded graduates about the importance of the relationships they’ve built at Elon. Patterson will retire from the university this summer after 40 years.

Think critically, lead empathetically

Candidates from graduate-level programs in the Dr. Jo Watts Williams School of Education and Martha and Spencer Love School of Business received their diplomas during a joint Commencement ceremony on May 20 in Alumni Gym.

In her address, journalist and author Katherine Blunt ’15 acknowledged a challenging reality – that today’s graduates are leaving institutions of higher learning across the country and embarking on professional journeys in a world where artificial intelligence is rapidly changing how people work, learn and think.

But she reminded the graduates that while many people may be tempted by the path of least resistance, Elon cultivates leaders who are deeply rooted in collaboration, communication and, most importantly, the ability to think critically.

Celebrating community

Ahead of and during Commencement Week, Elon held a variety of affinity celebrations celebrating and engaging graduates who share common identities, passions and connections that exist throughout various affinities. Those include Lavender Celebration, , Celebremos: Graduates Take Flight and Donning of the Kente.

‘Be-possible-ists’

During the 136th Commencement Ceremonies in Schar Center on May 22, President Connie Ledoux Book asked the Class of 2026 to look back on their New Student Convocation in 2022, 1,371 days prior.

During their first year, the Class of 2026 all read the Common Reading book “Factfulness” by Hans Rosling. In his book, Rosling described the word “possible-ist:” someone who looks honestly at the world’s problems and still believes, based on evidence, that things can get better, and that they are getting better. Book asked the graduates to be “possible-ists” as they enter the world.

Elon celebrated graduates in two ceremonies — the morning event for the School of Communications and the Martha and Spencer Love School of Business, and the afternoon event for Elon College, the College of Arts and Sciences, the Dr. Jo Watts Williams School of Education and the School of Health Sciences.

The 29 students were divided into teams and paired with faculty advisors who guided them throughout the yearlong process.

“These students got this project in August in the form of a two- or three-page document and an email address to contact, and they took it from there,” said Will Pluer, assistant professor of engineering. “They broke down their projects into subsystems and tasks, we had weekly scrum meetings where it felt like only little things were being achieved and eventually those little things turned into mockups in the fall and full prototypes this spring.”

One team partnered with Gilbarco Veeder-Root to improve security measures for gas station pumps that had experienced break-ins. The group added a sensor to the bottom of the machine to alert owners to unauthorized access, reinforced the bottom latch and installed an electrical component designed to preserve data during power outages.

Rahv Tupac-Yupanqui ’26, a mechanical engineering major from Virginia Beach, Virginia, said the project was a thorough culmination of years of coursework.

“We take classes where you do specific projects here and there, and eventually, down the line, it turns out that a skill, or many skills, that you learned on a specific project will help you do larger projects,” Tupac-Yupanqui said.

While students had worked with clients in previous engineering courses, Tupac-Yupanqui said the scale of the project and the level of communication with the company made this experience different.

“It feels like a huge privilege to be able to communicate with a company at such an intensive rate,” Tupac-Yupanqui said. “I’m really glad I got to do it because it gives me a really good perspective on what an engineering company does. Even though no engineering company works the same way, there is always a level of understanding that happens between engineers.”

Another team partnered with Driver Rehabilitation Services to redesign a Sure Grip vehicle driving system for people with physical impairments.

The original system had a “jerking” and rotational movement when pulled to accelerate the vehicle. �þ��� redesigned the mechanism, so it moved back and forth along a single plane.

“Whenever you pulled it back for acceleration, instead of moving in a straight line forward and back, it would rotate a little bit toward the center of your chest,” said Wiley Falter ’26, a mechanical engineering major from Fayetteville, North Carolina. “It’s fine for a driver that has full arm strength, but quadriplegic drivers only have strength coming from their shoulder, and so everyone would push in. It made it really awkward to push it back out, get it back into idle and brake.”

Like Tupac-Yupanqui, Falter said working with a real client was one of the most valuable parts of the experience.

“It was cool to communicate with the engineers who work there,” Falter said. “We all really enjoyed that part the most because it gave you a view into the real world of engineering and not just the bubble of being in college. It was super fun to get really constructive criticism on everything that we did.”

Pluer said the hands-on, client-based experience is what makes the course unique.

“It’s really important for us to give our students real problems to tackle,” Pluer said. “We’re moving out of the classroom into careers, so we give them projects from clients that push them and make them realize that engineering is truly a service industry, serving others through design.”