ADA

The MAE Department established the Academy of Distinguished Alumni (ADA) in the Fall of 2016. The purpose of the ADA is to give special recognition to graduates of UVA who received degrees from MAE and have distinguished careers after graduation, to employ advisors for the advancement of MAE, UVA Engineering, and its students, and to increase engagement between the department and its alumni. The elected members of the ADA have demonstrated outstanding personal qualities and important contributions to their fields. These contributions may be in a broad range of categories: education, leadership, research and innovation, government or community service, industry and commerce, and private practices.

New Members

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Sonya T. Smith

UVA MECH, '95 – Professor, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Howard University

 

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J. Philip Drummond, Sc.D., P.E.

Nuclear Engineering, ’70 – Distinguished Research Associate, NASA Langley Research Center

  • Nomination Process

    Academy members have the opportunity to solicit nominations, review nominations, and vote on potential new membership based on the following:

    • Eligibility: Has the nominee obtained a degree in mechanical, aerospace, applied math, or nuclear engineering or a degree in a related area from UVA and possess at least 10 years of post-degree professional or academic career experience?
    • Career: Has the nominee achieved a high-level of distinction in his or her field, such as measured by career trajectory, prior awards, publications, presentations, or substantial innovation that has had a positive impact on the profession or society?
    • University Involvement: Has the nominee remained engaged with MAE or UVA Engineering, such as by involvement with the department faculty or staff or other alumni, giving guest lectures, mentoring students, or provided philanthropic support? Does this candidate live up to the goals of UVA Engineering through their promotion of research excellence, championing diversity and engagement, and their passion for educating student leaders?

    Nominations may also be submitted by current or former MAE faculty or staff members, and by any alumni of the Department. Additionally, an individual can self-nominate. Nominators are encouraged to refresh nominations, should their nomination not receive the award in a given year.

    In order to be considered for that year’s award, nomination materials must be submitted prior to the last day of classes in the fall semester. All members of the Academy will be given an opportunity to vote on all approved nominations with nominating materials. Up to four inductees will be added each year.

    Nomination materials include the following:

    • Headshot or appropriate professional photograph
    • Up to date curriculum vitae or resume
    • Relevant publications or documents (journal articles, white papers, etc.)
  • Recognition and Responsibilities

    Induction will occur at the Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering Department’s Spring Awards Banquet or at another official event on Grounds. A photo and brief biography will be included as part of the Fall MAE brochure. Academy members will also be recognized on a permanent display in the Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering Building and on the Department’s website.

    As their schedule allows, members are foremost asked to promote and support the Department and UVA Engineering. Members might also be asked to take part in panel discussions with students, serve as guest lecturers, or encouraged to take part in mentoring relationships with undergraduate or graduate MAE students. Members are also encouraged to develop direct relationships with faculty and students.  The Academy is encouraged to hold an annual meeting and submit a one-page letter summarizing their guidance and advice on how best to serve the needs of the Department.