capstone engineer Fall 08

“I believe that an engineering college education is the best gift that anyone can receive.”

Charles RampacekStory on page 2

capstone

engineering society

1-800-333-8156

John W. CovingtonNational Chair, Board of Directors

Charles L. Karr, Ph.D.Dean, College of Engineering

Brandi L. LamonDirector, External Affairs and Development

Trudeau B. Livaudais iVCoordinator, Capstone Engineering Society

Mary WymerEditor

issue no. 38Capstone Engineer is published in

the spring and fall by the

Capstone Engineering Society.

Tori e. nelkoDesigner

Cathy ButlerProofreader

Jeff Hanson, Zach riggins,Laura Shill, Mary WymerPhotography

Address correspondenceto the editor: The University of Alabama

Capstone Engineering Society

College of Engineering, Box 870200

Tuscaloosa, AL 35487-0200

Visit the College of Engineering

Web site at eng.ua.edu.

The University of Alabama is an

equal-opportunity educational

institution/employer. • MC7774

Table of Contents 2 Our Students. Our Future.

8 Smart Giving

11 News

16 Surveying the College

22 Alumni Notes

24 In Memory

26 Events

2Dean McClure, whose company, TTL, created a scholarship in his name, stands with Dr. Ken Fridley. McClure gives to the school through his volunteer work and lectures with the college.

messageDean’s

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D E A N C h A r l E S l . K A r r

Dear Alumni and Friends,

As many of you have read, the higher education budget for the state of Alabama is getting smaller and smaller. With the decrease in the state budget, the Capstone is increasingly relying on our generous alumni to help provide financial gifts to ensure the best and brightest students receive the stellar education available at The University of Alabama.

This issue of the Capstone Engineer focuses on some of the gifts we have received. It was not possible for us to include stories on all of our wonderful donors, but we are highlighting a few to illustrate the importance of gifts for scholarships. As the College of Engineering increases enrollment, we must be able to recruit aggressively the best and brightest students. The College’s goal is to increase enrollment to 2,100 students by the year 2010, and we are striving to provide one-third of undergraduate students with competitive scholarships.

As the University comes to the end of the “Our Students. Our Future.” capital campaign, it is crucial for the College to finish strongly. UA’s College of Engineering is focused on preparing our students for an infinite number of opportunities. Our impressive numbers would not be possible without the loyal support of our alumni and friends who have generously given scholarships. Please join me in support of the College. Working together, we will not only reach our goals, but excel far beyond.

OUR STUDENTS.OUR FUTURE.

Many of our alumni and friends have generously given financial assistance throughout the years in support of the University of Alabama College of Engineering. Alumni also have shared their time and enthusiasm by hosting student recruitment events, networking with us to identify new people and companies that could help support our needs, and hiring our graduates. In the following pages, we highlight a few of the many engineering donors who have contributed during the University’s “Our Students. Our Future.” capital campaign.

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GiViNG BACk BECAUSEwe reCeiveD so MuCh

Theirs was a love story tied with crimson ribbons. From the day that linda Spring met James M. “Jim” Delahay, they started dating, and were married a year later in 1979. Jim was chaperoning linda’s high-school French trip to New Orleans. he was a sophomore at the Capstone, and a friend of hers introduced them so linda would know someone when she came to UA that August.

As a National Merit Scholar, Jim could have attended any engineering college, but he truly loved the University. he really enjoyed working with the professors in engineering, who inspired him to succeed not only academically but also professionally. linda recalls the many lifelong friends made studying in MIB and in the Tau Beta Pi office.

All of that studying paid off, and Jim received a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering in 1980 and a master’s degree in civil engineering in 1987. he started his career at lBYD Civil and Structural Engineers, where he was named chief executive officer in 1999.

Sadly, their love story ended much too early. In April 2005 Jim passed away, leaving behind linda, his wife of 25 years and two sons, William and Matthew. In November 2005, linda established the James M. Delahay Endowed Scholarship with priority consideration given to students enrolled in civil engineering.

“The University has given my family so much over the years. Jim and I were introduced because of the University, and we were married while in school. Through scholarships and jobs at the University we were able to make ends meet, and we both graduated with honors from the University,” said linda. “We started out with so little, and through the education we received at the University we did very well. So, I guess you could say that the University gave me the love of my life along with the financial and professional life that Jim and I shared.”

linda hopes that the scholarships from the endowment will allow students to pursue their academic and personal dreams with as much financial help as possible.

“Jim and I owe the University so much from our ‘finding each other’ to friendships we made in college to our careers and our financial success,” explained linda. “Two years before Jim died, he was inducted as a Distinguished Engineering Fellow at the College of Engineering. The night he accepted that award was one of the proudest of our lives. So even after our academic careers were over at the University, Alabama continued to be a source of pride and joy for us. how could I not want to make it possible for young people to experience what I experienced because of the University? I wish I could do more, but I do plan for our two sons to be a part of the University of Alabama family when they are old enough.”

Linda and Jim Delahay in 1980

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ENCoUrAGE STUDENTS ANDheLp My aLMa MaTer

Earning a mechanical engineering degree from an excellent school and thoroughly enjoying everything that campus life had to offer are just a few of the sentiments about the Capstone from Chuck Vice. “I met some of my best friends at the University,” said Vice.

Vice received his bachelor’s degree in 1986 and

began his career as a systems analyst with Electronic Data Systems (General Motors). he designed and marketed engineering management systems for auto, airline and financial service industry clients. After receiving a master’s degree in business administration from Vanderbilt University, Vice joined Energy Management Associates. After his success with that company, Vice was named marketing director for Continental Power Exchange Inc., a provider of electronic systems for trading electricity. In the late

1990s, he helped reorganize that company, and IntercontinentalExchange (ICE) was launched in 2000 as a consortium of 13 of the world’s largest energy trading firms and investment banks. In 2005, ICE became a publicly traded company on the New York Stock Exchange and was added to the S&P 500 Index in 2007.

The real motivation for Vice establishing the Charles A. Vice Endowed Scholarship in 2008 is his role as president of ICE. “As president of a technology company, I see firsthand the chronic shortage of workers in computer science and other engineering disciplines,”

explained Vice. “Funding a scholarship at the College of Engineering encourages more students

to pursue technical fields of study while helping my alma mater.”

In addition to the endowment, Vice has visited the Capstone as part of the Dean’s lecture Series and spoken with engineering students about leadership and entrepreneurship.

parTnership For The FuTure

For more than 40 years, TTl Inc. has provided practical, cost-effective solutions to environmental concerns and geotechnical challenges on projects throughout the Southeast. TTl’s diverse staff of highly specialized scientists, engineers and technicians brings together wide-ranging skills, insights and experiences.

TTl has committed to be a long-term partner with the College of Engineering. Through endowments, internships, cooperative education experiences and guest lectures, TTl recognizes the importance of educating tomorrow’s engineers.

The company first honored James C. Bambarger, retired chief executive officer, with an endowed scholarship in his name in 2002, and the endowment gives priority consideration to students majoring in civil engineering. Bambarger served the company for more than 35 years. Today, the company has more than 200 employees in numerous offices.

As part of the company’s continuous support of the College, TTl established the TTl Inc. Endowed

Chuck vice

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Engineering Scholarship in 2006. With priority consideration given to students who are dependents of TTl employees, the company not only encourages education of its own family but also helps with the next generation of engineers.

In 2008, the company chose to honor its current president and chief executive officer, h. Dean McClure, with an endowed scholarship in his name. McClure joined TTl upon his graduation from the Capstone in 1985. Two of McClure’s five children are currently pursuing degrees in civil and construction engineering at the University.

TTl also contributes through guest lecturers in civil and construction engineering, participating with the University’s American Society of Civil Engineers chapter, and assisting with the University’s Engineers Without Borders

chapter projects. Many civil and construction engineering students intern and participate in the cooperative education experience with TTl and gain valuable hands-on work experience before they graduate.

“These scholarships provide a competitive edge in assisting the

College in recruiting the best and brightest students,” said McClure. “I know the gifts will help recruit and retain students in engineering and play a part in the continued growth of the engineering programs at the University.”

Dr. ken Fridley, head of the department of civil, construction and environmental engineering, and Dean McClure, president of TTL.

“Funding a scholarship at the College of Engineering encourages more students to pursue technical fields of study while helping my alma mater.” Chuck Vice

engineering eDuCaTion is ThebesT giFT anyone Can reCeive

Family ties and the importance of an engineering education inspired Charles rampacek to establish two engineering scholarships. Through these endowments, he hopes that students are able to obtain a college education, particularly in the challenging field of engineering.

rampacek was born in Tuscaloosa but moved to Tucson, Ariz., at an early age. he returned to Tuscaloosa for his senior year of high school, and then attended the Capstone, where he received a bachelor’s degree in chemical engineering. his business career included managerial and executive positions in the oil

and gas industry for Exxon, Tenneco, lyondell-Citgo and Probex Corp. he retired in 2003 as president

and chief executive officer of Probex. he currently serves on the board of directors

of three companies and does part-time consulting work.

he has been closely associated with the University since his graduation, from his numerous financial gifts to his serving on the leadership Board of the College of Engineering.

“I have given to the University on a continuing basis since I graduated from college,” said rampacek. “I have been blessed with an excellent career and life which I believe were made possible by the engineering education I received at The University of Alabama. I wanted to help other students in the College of Engineering have the same opportunities for an excellent education that I had.”

As part of his dedication to the College, rampacek established the Charles M. rampacek Endowed Engineering Scholarship in 1999. The scholarship supports students who are pursuing degrees in chemical engineering.

rampacek also wanted to honor his father, Carl rampacek, who was associated with The University of Alabama several times during his life. his father was a chemist and metallurgist and worked at the U.S. Bureau of Mines, which was located on the campus, from 1941 to 1946 and from 1960 to 1963. From 1976 to 1983, his father served as director of the Mineral resources Institute on the UA campus.

“The University and Tuscaloosa held a special place in my parents’ hearts and I wanted to honor my father with an endowed scholarship in a field he loved, metallurgical engineering,” said rampacek.

In 2006, rampacek and his brother, George, established the Carl rampacek Endowed Engineering Scholarship with priority consideration for students majoring in metallurgical engineering.

“I feel that people who have been fortunate enough to obtain college degrees and have attained some measure of success should use their resources to help improve other peoples’ lives,” said rampacek. “I believe that an engineering college education is the best gift that anyone can receive.”

Charles rampacek

rob Eberly is one of the recipients of the Charles rampacek endowed Engineering Scholarship.

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honor an engineering MenTor

Sam A Johnson III graduated from the Capstone with a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering in 1964, and he worked as a consulting engineer before joining Gulf States Paper Corp. in 1966. he remained a dedicated employee to the company, working his way up through the ranks and serving in many capacities, including senior project engineer, section engineer, director

of new construction, assistant engineering manager, director of engineering and maintenance, vice president and plant manager of manufacturing, and ultimately vice president and general manager of the mill.

Johnson spent his entire career with Gulf States, which later became rock-Tenn Co., and he would have retired from the company if cancer hadn’t ended his life at the age of 64.

Johnson loved helping people, especially mentoring young engineers. “Sam gave young engineers the chance to advance rapidly in the company, but he knew when to offer advice and leadership and not let us make costly mistakes. he was an outstanding leader, and he was very ‘down-to-earth’ when interacting with young engineers. he had no trouble relating with people at every level,” said David Tait, a former employee and close friend of Johnson.

Johnson’s impact was widely felt throughout the rock-Tenn family, and after his death in August 2006, Johnson’s friends and family wanted a way to honor their former supervisor, friend and colleague.

“Sam would not have wanted people spending their money for flowers. When David Tait, leroy McAbee and Jim Bambarger approached me about the idea for an endowed scholarship, I couldn’t think of any better way to honor Sam,” explained Betty, Sam’s wife of 34 years.

Without the generous donations of the many employees and friends, the fund would not have been possible. Betty is quite humbled by the number of donations from friends and associates.

Through the Sam A Johnson III Endowed Scholarship, Johnson’s legacy of teaching engineers will continue. Priority consideration for the scholarship is given to students who major in civil, construction and environmental engineering and who graduated from high schools in Demopolis, Ala., or from high schools in Greene, hale, Marengo or Sumter Counties.

“Sam believed in hard work with integrity, leadership and respect. I think he would be so happy that we have established this scholarship to help kids in our community to go to the Capstone to become engineers,” said Betty.

With rising tuition costs, some students would not be able

to attend the Capstone without the generous support of our

alumni and friends who have endowed scholarships. You

can help shape the future of UA engineering by supporting

the College financially during the final months of the

“Our Students. Our Future.” campaign. For more information,

visit ourstudentsourfuture.ua.edu

Sam A Johnson

“I believe that an engineering college education is the best gift that anyone can receive.”

Charles rampacek

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As someone who has already taken the visionary step of providing financial support to your University, you should also know that the end of the year is a good time to consider ways to ensure that your gift provides the maxi-mum possible benefit. Taking time to explore your options may be especially relevant this year as we face a changing economic environment. It is important to examine the property you give and the timing of your gifts in order to maximize tax savings.

In this article, we will discuss briefly some of the more common methods of giving. We would be pleased to provide additional information upon request. Also, we urge you to discuss your individual tax-planning situation with your accountant or other professional adviser.

ProPertyCash

The most common form of gifts given to the University is the writing of a check. Make sure your envelope is post-marked by Dec. 31, in order to qualify for a charitable income tax deduction for 2008. If you itemize your income tax return, outright gifts of cash are deductible for federal income tax purposes up to 50 percent of your adjusted gross income. In the event your total charitable gifts should exceed this limitation, the excess deduction may be carried forward for up to five additional years.

Appreciated property

Giving individual stocks, bonds or mutual funds that have appreciated in value since you purchased them can offer

tax savings in two important ways. First, you avoid pay-ing any capital gains tax on the increase in value of your security. Also, you receive an income tax deduction for the full fair market value of the asset on the date of your gift. Gifts of these assets are deductible up to 30 percent of your adjusted gross income. Excess deductions may be carried forward for up to five additional years.

Depreciated property

In the event you own investments that have decreased in value, you may wish to sell them and use the proceeds to make your gift. This option creates a loss you may be able to deduct from other taxable income. In addition, you may deduct your gift of the sale proceeds as a cash contribution. By combining both deductions, the transaction may result in greater tax savings to you.

Giving stock and keeping it

You may own a security that has increased in value and is expected to increase in future years. Consider donating the security and use cash that would otherwise have been used to make your contribution to repurchase the same invest-ment. This option would enable you to own the same security, but realize a new, higher cost basis while enjoying a charitable deduction as well.

Gifts of real estate

Many loyal friends and alumni have chosen to contribute vacation homes, personal residences, timberland and other acreage to the University. When deciding to make a gift us-ing real estate, it is important to review a number of criteria. In general, gifts of real estate held long term

As another year comes to a close, it is important for the College of Engineering at The University of Alabama to take a moment to say thank you to our alumni and friends whose giving ensures a bright future for others and makes a meaningful difference.

By Phillip B. Adcock

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(longer than one year) are deductible for federal tax pur-poses at the fair market value of the property on the date of the gift. We have more information available upon request.

Planning for the future As you can see, gifts to The University of Alabama can take many forms. The College of Engineering looks to its alumni and friends to continue to be a positive influence on all the citizens of this state and beyond and to main-tain its reputation as the premier engineering school in the state. Many of our supporters choose for the College to receive gifts in the future through careful estate planning. here is a brief outline of some of the forms this type of giving can take.

Will or living trust

For many friends of the College, bequests are a means of making contributions that would not have been possible in their lifetimes. The University of Alabama recognizes that the provisions of wills are private and that donors may choose not to divulge them.

A variety of bequest types can be made to the College of Engineering for purposes you designate. You can

• Grant a specific dollar amount

• Assign a certain asset

• Leave a specific percentage of your estate

• Leave whatever is left, known as the residual estate, after you have cared for family and those who rely on you for support

Beneficiary designations

One of the simplest long-range gift arrangements to estab-lish is the designation of the University as the beneficiary of your IrA, 401(k), other retirement plan or life insurance policy. This generally requires the completion of a simple change of beneficiary form, and it is often the most tax-efficient way to give. Contact your plan administrator for more information.

Life income plans life income plans allow you to make a charitable gift of

an asset and retain an income benefit as long as you live or for a specified term of years. Plans of this sort may provide more income than you currently earn from some assets, and the rates of income distributed may be fixed or

variable. The University receives the remaining funds at the end of the period you specify.

The Denny Society Denny Society membership is reserved exclusively for those alumni and friends who have taken the bold step of including The University of Alabama in their estate plans. Named for Dr. George hutcheson Denny, the University’s 14th president, the Denny Society recognizes the impor-tance of long-range gifts in ensuring continued excellence on our campus. Such gifts allow us to plan our future, a future like that envisioned and begun by President Denny.

for more information Carefully planning both the timing of your gift and the type of property you choose to give based on your particu-lar situation can provide additional benefits. remember also that it is important to check with your accountant, attorney or other professional advisers.

We would be pleased to provide you with our compli-mentary booklet, “Your Guide to Year-End Giving,” with no obligation. Please contact UA Engineering’s Develop-ment Office at (205) 348-7594 or the Office of University Advancement at (205) 348-4767 for assistance on any gifts you may be considering. You may also reach us through e-mail at mailbox@advancement.ua.edu.

maintaining excellence Take pride in the knowledge that your contributions make UA’s College of Engineering stand out in the eyes of the nation. We are grateful for your support. Each gift you make allows us to provide a margin of excellence at a time of critical budgetary needs. Thank you for the trust you place in us by sharing your time, talent and financial resources with the College. We endeavor to be excellent stewards of your generosity.

A veteran of planned giving for more than 25 years, Phillip B. Adcock is assistant vice president for development in the Office of University Advancement. Adcock joined The University of Alabama staff in 2002.

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Legacy

You help shape the future of UA Engineering by supporting the College financially. There are many

ways to help – establish a gift in your estate plan or donate gifts of cash, appreciated property, or equipment. Take pride in the knowledge that your

contributions make UA’s College of Engineering

stand out in the eyes of the nation.

For more information, call us at 1-800-333-8156.

l E A V I N G A

eng.ua.edu

Crimson is ...

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• American Cast Iron Pipe Co. for continuing support of the ACIPCO Engineering Scholarship Program

• AT&T for continuing support of the Electrical and Computer Engineering Endowed Support Fund

• Mr. and Mrs. Dennis L. Baxendale for continuing support of the Dennis and Virginia Baxendale Endowed Scholarship

• Mr. Aubrey Blackwell for continuing support of the Chemical and Biological Engineering Gift Fund

• Brasfield & Gorrie LLC for continuing support of the Brasfield & Gorrie Founders’ Scholarship, the Brasfield & Gorrie Endowed Support Fund and the Brasfield & Gorrie Discretionary Fund

• Dr. Robin B. and Mr. William P. Buckelew for continuing support of engineering scholarships

• CDG Engineers & Associates for continuing support of the CDG Engineers Civil Engineering Scholarship

• Mr. Eugene Croxton Jr. for continuing support of the Chemical and Biological Engineering Gift Fund

• Davis Architects Inc. for continuing support of the Davis Architects Excellence in Construction Engineering Endowed Support Fund

• Doster Construction Co. Inc. for continuing support of the Thomas E. Doster III Endowed Scholarship

• Mr. Luther P. Gause Jr. for continuing support of the Chemical and Biological Engineering Gift Fund

• Mr. and Mrs. Robert H. Haubein for continuing support of the Mr. and Mrs. Robert H. Haubein Endowed Engineering Scholarship

• Honda Manufacturing of Alabama LLC for continuing support of the Mechanical Engineering Gift Fund

• Dr. Angela S. and Mr. Sanjeev Lahoti for establishing the Irvin A. Jefcoat Endowed Scholarship

• Mr. and Mrs. John Lewis for continuing support of the Lewis Family Endowed Chemical Engineering Discretionary Fund

• Mr. Alsey Clements Parker Jr. for continuing support of the Alsey Clements Parker Memorial Endowed Engineering Scholarship

• SASHTO for continuing support of the Civil Engineering Scholarship Fund

• TTL Inc. for establishing the H. Dean McClure Endowed Scholarship

• Mr. and Mrs. Charles A. Vice for establishing the Charles A. Vice Endowed Scholarship

• Vulcan Materials Co. for establishing the Vulcan Materials Co. Endowed Support Fund

Big thanKSWe appreciate our recent partners in UA’s College of Engineering family

for their support of our students and programs.

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news UA HONORS SIX DISTINGUISHED ENGINEERING FELLOWSThe College of Engineering honored six alumni of the College by inducting them into its class of 2008 Distinguished Engineering Fellows.

Woodrow B. Cannon – BSME ’68

Throughout Woodrow B. Cannon’s career, he has demonstrated leadership and versatility, especially in the field of communication equipment providers. Cannon began his professional career at IBM and spent 13 years with the company. he then spent six years at AT&T in sales management positions where his area consistently led the country in results. Cannon then served as president and chief executive officer of Mariposa Technology Inc., a provider of integrated access devices for building mission-critical converged networks, where he led the effort to sell the company for $268 million. As co-founder, president and chief executive officer of Infinity Security Solutions, he currently oversees the operation of a security equipment provider that uses cutting-edge technology to protect the assets of company networks.

Kevin Michael Hostler – BSChE ’77

With more than 30 years of extensive experience in the oil and gas industry, Kevin Michael hostler has become a national leader in the business. As president and chief executive officer of Alyeska Pipeline Service Co., hostler is responsible for the operation and maintenance of the Trans Alaska Pipeline System. Prior to joining Alyeska, hostler dedicated 28 years to British Petroleum, where he served as the business unit leader and

associate president of BP’s subsidiary in Colombia, general manager of BP’s operations in Southern England, and as operations manager of BP’s Deepwater assets in the Gulf of Mexico. his most recent assignment was a senior vice president of the company’s global human resources organization.

Jerry L. Stewart – BSME ’73

Jerry l. Stewart has dedicated 35 years of engineering management expertise to Southern Company and its subsidiary Alabama Power Co. Stewart began his career with Alabama Power, and he became the general manager of technical services in 1988. he was later named vice president of fuel services for Southern Company, where he was responsible for safely and efficiently coordinating the overall fuel operations of the company. Stewart returned to Alabama Power in 1999 as the senior vice president of fossil and hydro generation. Currently, Stewart serves as the executive vice president and chief production officer of Southern Company, and senior production officer of Alabama Power. he leads Southern Company’s fossil and hydro fleet with one of the lowest forced outage rates in the industry.

Saša Tomic – MSCE ’94, MSCS ’98, PhD ’98

Saša Tomic’s work in stochastic hydrology and real-time database systems has not only gained him both national and international recognition, but has expanded his ability to develop, model and implement outstanding computer modeling and asset management software for the water resources industry. Upon graduation, Tomic worked with haestad Methods Inc. in a variety of positions, where he supervised the system integration services department while designing, implementing and maintaining modeling software components. In 2003, Tomic

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news joined Wallingford Software Inc., a leading provider of water resource management software. he now serves as the company’s senior vice president and global product development manager as he assisted in the establishment of new distributor offices in East Asia and latin America. he also coordinates international sales support and guides the future development direction of the water distribution product line.

Charles A. Vice – BSME ’86

Charles A. Vice has been a leader in the management and application of information to the energy industry. As president and chief operating officer of IntercontinentalExchange (ICE), Vice is responsible for operating the world’s leading electronic energy market and soft commodity exchange. After graduation, Vice began working as a systems analyst with Electronic Data Systems, where he designed and marketed electronic document management systems for auto, airline and financial service industry clients. Vice later joined Energy Management Associates, where he sold and managed more than $2 million in consulting work for electric and gas utilities. Vice was then named marketing director for the Continental Power Exchange Inc. he helped reorganize that company under new ownership to create an Internet-based trading platform. ICE was finally launched in 2000 as a consortium of 13 of the world’s largest energy trading firms and investment banks.

Susan Burch Waltman – BSChE ’86

As the global brand director of Minute Maid with The Coca-Cola Company Inc., Susan Burch Waltman leads new product innovation for Minute Maid and other Coca-Cola non-carbonated products in more than 80 countries. Before joining Coca-Cola in 2006, Waltman served as vice president of nutrition science and packaging development for ConAgra Foods Inc. Through this position, she delivered consumer-driven nutrition product improvements to brands, including healthy Choice, Orville redenbacher and Chef Boyardee. Prior to ConAgra Foods, she worked at Bristol-Myers Squibb Pharmaceuticals where she served as the director of innovation launching new products, including the Viactiv Calcium Chew and Enfamil Easy Ones. Waltman began her career with Procter and Gamble, working on key brands, such as Duncan hines and Crisco, and she became the section head for Folgers Vacuum Coffee.

From left to right: Jerry L. stewart, woodrow b. Cannon, saša Tomic, susan burch waltman, Kevin Michael hostler and Charles a. vice

news FAULKNER AWARDED UA ENGINEERING OUTSTANDING ALUMNI VOLUNTEER AWARD

The College of Engineering awarded l. lamar Faulkner with the 2008 Outstanding Alumni Volunteer Award. Faulkner can best be described as selfless, generous and tireless in devoting his time and energy to his alma mater. As an alumnus and as a retired engineer, Faulkner has brought much honor to this College.

Faulkner has been one of the College’s most adamant recruiters for prospective students and has gone more than above and beyond in helping students find employment. From serving as a past chair of the Capstone Engineering Society to his work on the Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering advisory board, Faulkner has kept the Capstone close to his heart by giving so much of his valuable time and efforts.

Faulkner received his bachelor’s degree in chemical engineering in 1964 from The University of Alabama. In 1995, he was inducted as a Distinguished Engineering Fellow. In 1986, Faulkner was named the University of Alabama National Alumni Association Out-of-State Chapter President of the Year.

COLLEGE RECEIVES SCHOLARSHIP FUNDS FROM VULCAN MATERIALSVulcan Materials Co. representatives visited campus and presented the College with scholarship funds to establish the Vulcan Materials Co. Endowed Support Fund. The fund will support the College’s construction engineering program. Sherman Suitts, vice president of sales and business development, delivered the check to Dr. Ken Fridley, head of the civil, construction and environmental engineering department.

increase the prestige and value of your engineering or computer science degree.

help us achieve higher rankings through increased alumni participation.

Provide much-needed financial support for our students and the College.

receive updates and information about the College.

receive the Capstone Engineer.

receive complimentary admission to the homecoming tailgate party.

Why contribute to CES?

Call 1-800-333-8156 or visit the Web site at eng.ua.edu.

Crimson Is Belonging to The Capstone Engineering Society.

Tru Livaudais, L. Lamar Faulkner and Dean Chuck Karr

engineer capstone 15

Our StudentS. Our Future.

For more information about giving opportunities without obligation,

contact our professional staff toll-free at 1-888-875-4438,

(205) 348-4767, or visit giving.ua.edu.

Our university continues to build upon its tradition of excellence through generous,

long-range gifts from private donors. Please remember the College of Engineering

in your will, trust, or other estate plans.

You madE a CarEEr EnginEEring things that last. hErE’s anothEr ChanCE.

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surveying the college

RAY APPOINTED IIE FELLOW

Dr. Paul S. ray, professor of civil, construction and environmental engineering, was awarded the Institute of Industrial Engineers’ Fellow award. ray’s contributions to the engineering field and service within the industrial engineering community made him a qualified applicant for the award. Fellow is the highest elected grade of membership within IIE, recognizing outstanding leaders of the profession who have made significant, nationally recognized contributions to industrial engineering.

TODD RECEIVES UA ENGINEERING’S T. MORRIS HACKNEY LEADERSHIP AWARD

Dr. Beth Todd, associate professor of mechanical engineering, received the 2008 T. Morris hackney Endowed Faculty leadership award. The award honors a faculty member who exemplifies the constant guidance and leadership necessary to make the College of Engineering exceptional.

Todd began working at The University of Alabama in 1992 as an assistant professor of engineering mechanics. She moved to mechanical engineering in 1996 and was promoted to associate professor in 2001. She has served as mechanical engineering’s undergraduate program coordinator since 1998 and as the faculty advisor for UA’s student sections of the American Society of Mechanical Engineers and the Society of Women Engineers. She has been named the national outstanding section faculty advisor for both ASME and SWE. In addition, Todd was named a SWE Fellow in 2004, and served as the SWE National Conference co-chair in 2003.

Todd has been active in various areas of research and has been awarded numerous externally funded research grants, including a National Science Foundation GK-12 initiative for more than $1.6 million in 2004. She recently received a second NSF grant for almost $3 million. In addition, Todd has more than 63 reviewed publications, more than 40 technical reports and 25 conference presentations.

This award was created as a tribute to T. Morris hackney, and was made possible by the contributions from Mr. John h. Josey and his son, Mr. howard Josey.

REDDY HONORED AS SME DISTINGUISHED MEMBER

Dr. ramana G. reddy, ACIPCO Professor and head of the department of metallurgical and materials engineering, was recognized as one of the Society of Mining, Metallurgy and Exploration’s 2008 Distinguished Members. The Distinguished Member award is presented to select members of SME who have distinguished themselves by demonstrating significant contributions to the minerals industry.

Dr. beth Todd with Dean Chuck Karr

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surveying the college

THOMPSON RECOGNIZED AS ‘YOUNG LEADERS’ INTERNATIONAL SCHOLAR

Dr. Gregory Thompson, assistant professor of metallurgical and materials engineering, was selected as a 2008 The Minerals, Metals and Materials Society Young leaders International Scholar. The award provided Thompson with a travel reimbursement to the Japanese Institute of Metals’ annual meeting in Tokyo where he presented his paper, “Mechanistic Formation and Composition Distribution in FePt Nanoparticles.”

LINDLY APPOINTED NEW DIRECTOR OF UTCA

Dr. Jay K. lindly, professor of civil, construction and environmental engineering, was appointed the director of the University Transportation Center for Alabama. In this position, lindly is responsible for ensuring the advancement of technology and expertise in transportation through education, research and technology transfer. he coordinates research on the three campuses that make up UTCA, including The University of Alabama, the University of Alabama at Birmingham and the University

of Alabama in huntsville. Dr. Dan Turner, former UTCA director, is still actively involved in the College and UTCA.

TURNER EARNS NSF CAREER AWARD

Dr. C. heath Turner, reichhold-Shumaker assistant professor of chemical and biological engineering, has been awarded a National Science Foundation CArEEr Award. CArEEr Awards are NSF’s most prestigious recognition of top-performing young scientists and engineers who are beginning their careers.

Turner has been awarded a five-year, $400,000 grant to perform simulation studies of nanometer-sized metal catalyst particles. The goal of the

project is to use simulations to help understand how small metal particles behave on different support materials. This information can be used to significantly enhance future technologies, ranging from fuel cell components to the next generation of microelectronics.

LAMON APPOINTED AS DIRECTOR OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS AND DEVELOPMENT

Brandi lamon joined the College as the director of external affairs and development, where she is responsible for planning and executing fund-raising programs and overseeing events and public relations for the College.

Most recently, lamon served The University of Alabama as the director of the Office of New Student and Parent Programs, where her primary responsibilities included vision and oversight for the growth of the University’s parent programs with the first-year student experience. She grew this organization from a group of 600 members to one that now serves all parents of current UA students.

lamon received her bachelor of science in communication arts from the University of North Alabama and her master of arts in communication studies from The University of Alabama. She is completing a doctorate in higher education administration at the Capstone. lamon has received numerous recognitions throughout her career, including membership in the American Association of University Women and UA’s Vergil Parks McKinley Award.

engineer capstone18

surveying the college

STELLAR FACULTY

Dean Chuck Karr congratulates the following faculty for stellar work during the 2007-08 academic year.

Outstanding Teachers The following tenure-track faculty received a 4.8 rating and above on teaching evaluations for both the fall and spring semesters.

• Dr. John Baker, associate professor of mechanical engineering• Dr. Robert Batson, professor of civil, construction and

environmental engineering• Dr. Brandon Dixon, associate professor of computer science• Dr. Daniel Fonseca, associate professor mechanical engineering• Dr. Ken Fridley, professor and head of civil, construction and

environmental engineering• Dr. Stan Jones, professor and head of aerospace engineering

and mechanics• Dr. Wendel Jordan, assistant professor of mechanical engineering• Dr. Clark Midkiff, professor of mechanical engineering and

director of UA’s Center for Advanced Vehicle Technologies• Dr. Gary Moynihan, professor of civil, construction and

environmental engineering• Dr. Kenneth Ricks, associate professor of electrical and computer

engineering• Dr. Beth Todd, associate professor of mechanical engineering

Promotion and Tenure

The following faculty received promotions and tenure this year.

• Dr. Semih Olcmen, associate professor of aerospace engineering and mechanics

• Dr. Kenneth Ricks, associate professor of electrical and computer engineering

• Dr. Randy Smith, associate professor of computer science• Dr. Gregory Thompson, associate professor of metallurgical and

materials engineering

Dr. randy smith, Dr. Kenneth ricks and Dr. semih olcmen

CORDES SELECTED FOR UA LEADERSHIP ACADEMY

Six fellows have been selected for The University of Alabama leadership Academy class of 2009. Mentoring by a senior UA official is a highlight of the newly designed program. Dr. David Cordes, professor and head of the department of computer science, will be mentored by Dr. robert halli, dean of UA’s honors College.

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surveying the college

CE STUDENT WINS ASCE NATIONAL AWARD

Sarah Barnes, a senior majoring in civil engineering, was awarded the American Society of Civil Engineers’ Daniel W. Mead Prize for Students for placing first in the ASCE National Paper Competition. Barnes’ paper, titled “Ethical Issues Surrounding Infrastructure Privatization,” explored professional ethics in engineering by focusing on the challenges of privatization and how it affects both public and private sector engineers. The paper also explained the reasons for privatization and consequences from poor decisions concerning privatization.

ALABAMA CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY GETS A BOOST FROM UA’S NEWEST PROGRAM

The Alabama construction industry is beginning to reap the benefits from UA’s newest program. The Capstone launched its construction engineering program in 2006 and graduated its first student May 10. UA’s program is one of 10 in the country and the only construction engineering program in the Gulf States region.

Michael Smothers is the first student to receive a construction engineering degree from The University of Alabama. Smothers,

originally from Talladega, has accepted a position with Turner Construction Co. at the Dallas location.

ME STUDENT SELECTED FOR SAE LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM

Tim rose, a junior majoring in mechanical engineering, was one of 25 students selected to participate in the 2008 Society of Automotive Engineers leadership Development Program. This program recognizes the most promising SAE student leaders, who have exhibited outstanding leadership skills through their involvement with SAE activities on campus.

ENGINEERING STUDENTS RECEIVE IIE STUDENT AWARDS FOR EXCELLENCE

Michelle McGaha and Jack “Trey” hayes III, both seniors in industrial engineering, were recognized with the Institute of Industrial Engineers’ Student Award for Excellence. McGaha received the first place award while hayes was honored with the third place award. This national award recognizes undergraduate students who have distinguished themselves among their peers through excellence in scholarship and campus leadership.

Michelle Mcgaha

Jack “Trey” hayes iii

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surveying the college

TWO ENGINEERING STUDENTS NAMED TO USA TODAY’S ALL-USA COLLEGE ACADEMIC TEAM

Two engineering students from UA have been named to the 2008 USA Today All-USA College Academic Team. The team includes Second Team member Michelle McGaha, a senior in industrial engineering, and Third Team member Dylan Whisenhunt, a senior in chemical and biological engineering. Seven UA students were named to this year’s team. This is the second consecutive year that McGaha has received this honor.

UA’s College of Engineering has received eight honors recognitions for engineering students on the the team since 2003, more than any other engineering college in the nation.

The USA Today All-USA College Academic Team honors the “best of the best” undergraduate academic all-stars from across the nation. A total of 80 students nationwide were selected from more than 600 nominees for the 2008 team.

CHBE STUDENT RECEIVES HOLLINGS SCHOLARSHIP

The University of Alabama’s best and brightest students are again being nationally recognized for their top-notch research. Joy Driver, a junior chemical and biological engineering major, was one of two UA students chosen for the prestigious and highly competitive National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Ernest F. hollings Undergraduate Scholarship for 2008-09. The scholarship provides $8,000 per year for full-time study during the junior and senior years and $6,500 for a 10-week internship at NOAA. This is the fourth consecutive year a College of Engineering student has received this honor.

CES OUTSTANDING SENIOR AWARD

A $500 cash stipend and plaque were presented to Michelle McGaha, a senior in industrial engineering, as the 2008 Capstone Engineering Society Outstanding Senior. McGaha’s academic honors include the 2008 IIE Student Award for Excellence, 2007 and 2008 USA Today All-USA College Academic Team, 2006 hollings Scholar and UA’s Dr. Catherine J. randall Award. She is a member of numerous honoraries, including the XXXI, Anderson Society, Blue Key, Omicron Delta Kappa and Mortar Board. She has received Tau Beta Pi’s Outstanding Sophomore, Junior and Senior awards. McGaha also represented the College of Engineering as an Ambassador of the College of Engineering.

Michelle Mcgaha and Dylan whisenhunt

Michelle Mcgaha and Tru Livaudais

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surveying the college

ANOTHER UA NATIONAL CHAMPION… CE STUDENT IS AN AWARD-WINNING TURKEY CALLER

Many experienced hunters agree that you never know to what type of sound a wild turkey will respond. Sometimes they like the high-pitched yelps of an aluminum friction call or, they might prefer the sound of a wingbone. Whatever call a turkey is listening for, Terence Williamson, a senior majoring in civil engineering, knows what to do.

After calling in his first turkey in 1996, Williamson traveled to numerous calling competitions throughout the Southeast. In 1997, he placed second in the junior division of his first contest, the Buck Burns Memorial Turkey Calling Contest. Since then, he has placed in more than 66 competitions.

Williamson recently placed second in the U.S. Open Qualifier and the Arkansas Sportshow regional Turkey Calling Championship. he was the first runner-up in the friction division of the 2008 Wild Turkey Bourbon Grand National Calling Championship. In addition, Williamson placed sec-ond in friction and third in owl hooting at the 2008 Sportsman’s Warehouse Woods and Water Weekend Turkey Calling Contest.

Originally from Gordo, Ala., Williamson’s love for the outdoors was not only responsible for instilling in him an interest in hunting and calling, but it also influenced him to pursue a future in engineering. After surveying with his father during the summer, Williamson realized that civil engineering was a field that combined the outdoors with practical applications.

“I knew that I wanted to be able to work outside,” said Williamson. “I did some work with my dad, who serves as the district conservationist with the Natural resources Conservation Service, and that was all it took for me realize that engineering was something I was incredibly interested in.”

ua’S arty Party lightS uP from ece claSS

The College of Engineering partnered with UA’s School of Music to develop some creative lamps for auction at this year’s UA Arty Party. The freshman electrical engineering class designed seven lamps from musical instruments donated by the School of Music. Student teams transformed a piccolo, clarinet, bassoon, saxophone, trumpet, trombone and a mellophone into beautiful lamps. After votes were tallied, the bassoon, saxophone and clarinet were the “winning” lamps.

The Arty Party lamps are just one of the many creative endeavors that the College is pursuing for student involvement. From partnerships with UA’s School of Music, the Department of Theatre and Dance, and Creative Campus, our students are integrating their engineering skills through some extraordinary creative exhibits. See more about engineering creative endeavors on page 28 with COE Does Art and the Alabama repertory Dance Theatre.

alumni notes

engineer capstone22

1967

Gary N. Durham, BSCE ’67, was honored with the Award of Merit from the ASTM International committee D18 on soil and rock for his service in standards of development, publications and operations. The award is the highest ASTM recognition for individual contributions.

1968

Lee Harold Richey, BSME ’68, MSME ’69, is the senior higher education consultant with Draper & Associates, providing business development services to higher education throughout the Southeastern states.

1971

Bruce Anderson, BSCE ’71, was named as head of the Alabama Development Office’s new satellite office in huntsville, Ala., which will focus on recruiting new aerospace, aviation and defense-related jobs to the state.

1975

Dr. Jane Ammons, BSIE ’75, MSIE ’76, was elected president-elect of the Institute of Industrial Engineers board of trustees. Ammons is associate dean of engineering and professor of industrial and systems engineering at the Georgia Institute of Technology.

1980

John S. Richardson, BSMin ’80, MSMin ’83, was named president of Energen resources, a diversified energy holding company with headquarters in Birmingham, Ala.

1981

Tim D. Morrison, BSChE ’81, was named president of AErT Inc., the leader in the green building materials market.

1983

David E. Roberts Jr., BSMin ’83, was named executive vice president of Upstream for Marathon Oil Corp., an integrated international energy company engaged in exploration and production; oil sands mining; integrated gas; and refining, marketing and transportation operations.

1986

Niomi A. Krzystowczyk, BSChE ’86, was promoted to division vice president, health, safety and environment of Albemarle Corp.

1987

Ed Dolensky, BSME ’87, MBA ’92, was hired as a project director for AT&T.

1989

Paul King, BSCS ’89, was recently appointed as the vice president of products and engineering for Agentek Inc. in Atlanta, Ga. King will lead the company’s development and product management teams.

JoBS PromotionS awardS

alumni notes

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1990

Dr. Ronald L. Hollis, BSME ’90, was inducted in the University of Alabama in huntsville Distinguished Alumni for Engineering. hollis is the founder of Quickparts.com and inventor of online, instant quoting for custom parts. hollis also recently published his first book, “Better Be running! Tools to Drive Design Success.”

1998

Tonya Harvell, BSEE ’98, was recently promoted to systems support project manager at Southern Company.

1999

John T. Thomas, BSME ’99, accepted a mechanical engineering position with raytheon and works at the NASA facilities in huntsville, Ala.

2001

Paul Barnett, BSEE ’01, was awarded the Chattanooga Area Young Engineer of the Year award. Barnett works as a senior electrical engineer for the Tennessee Valley Authority.

engineer capstone24

in memory

Leroy J. CarlisleLeroy J. Carlisle passed away on Sept. 13, 2007. Prior to attending the Capstone, he attended

Howard College, and he served in the U.S. Air Force. He received a bachelor’s degree in chemical engineering in 1957 and began working as a chemical engineer for Amoco Chemicals Co.

He retired in 1991 after 24 years of service.

William E. CrowderWilliam E. Crowder passed away on March 19, 2008. Crowder received a bachelor’s degree

in aerospace engineering in 1951 and joined North American Aviation Inc. as a performance analyst in the Advanced Systems Department. Crowder later joined Chance Vought Aircraft Inc. In addition to a successful career, Crowder furthered his education by earning a master’s degree in engineering administration from Southern Methodist University. In 1998, Crowder and his wife, June, established the William E. Crowder Endowed Scholarship in aerospace engineering

and the June Noland Crowder Endowed Scholarship in chemistry.

Peter G. DeFazioPeter G. DeFazio of Pewaukee, Wis., died on April 11, 2008. DeFazio received a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering in 1935. He worked for National Lead Co. and as a lieutenant

commander with the U.S. Navy Seabees during World War II.

Ben Jay GeorgeBen Jay George passed away on April 16, 2008. George received his bachelor’s and master’s degrees in mechanical engineering in 1972 and 1973, respectively. He recently retired from

Southern Nuclear Operating Co. with more than 35 years of service. George was a nationally recognized expert in nuclear licensing and was a member of numerous industry committees.

Sidney GreenbergSidney Greenberg passed away on May 24, 2007. Greenberg received a bachelor’s degree in aerospace engineering in 1946. Greenberg created a number of institutions, including Lucid Manufacturing and the Rogow-Greenberg Foundation. He was the chief executive officer of

Birken Manufacturing Co.

engineer capstone 25

in memory

James P. Hayes Jr.James P. Hayes Jr. died on June 6, 2008. Hayes received his bachelor’s and master’s degrees in

industrial engineering from the Capstone in 1971 and 1973, respectively. Hayes was president of the Economic Development Partnership of Alabama, where he worked tirelessly to improve the

lives of Alabama citizens.

Hayes’ commitment to the University was immeasurable as he most recently served as co-chairman of the “Our Students. Our Future.” capital campaign. He received numerous awards from the University, including the Distinguished Alumnus Award, the College of Commerce

and Business Administration Achievement in Finance Award, the College of Engineering Distinguished Engineering Fellow and the Dean’s Medal from the College of Communication

and Information Sciences. Most recently, he was honored when the University’s James P. Hayes Moral Forum was endowed in his name.

William L. King Jr.William L. King Jr. of San Diego, Calif., died on May 20, 2007. King received a bachelor’s degree in aerospace engineering in 1943. He was commissioned in the U.S. Navy and served in World

War II, the Korean War and the Vietnam War; he retired as a commander in 1973. He then worked for 10 years in the metrology field.

James Bennett MasseyJames Bennett Massey of Palm Harbor, Fla., passed away on April 23, 2008. Massey received a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering in 1947. During World War II, he served as a radio

operator in the Merchant Marine. He was later employed by Western Electric in New York and then the Long Lines Division of AT&T, from which he retired in 1978.

engineer capstone26

events

golferS raiSe fundS for ceS

The Capstone Engineering Society held its eighth annual CES Golf Tournament on April 24, at the Bent Brook Golf Course in Bessemer. About 144 alumni and friends enjoyed a beautiful day and raised almost $21,000 (net proceeds) to benefit CES initiatives.

thanks to this year’s golf committee!

Dominic AllenDanny burrows

David CouringtonLori EastmanJudsen JonesJon Noland

roscoe Wallace

engineer capstone 27

events

thanks to this year’s sponsors!

ACiPCoAlabama Guardrail inc.

alabama power CompanyaMeC e&C services inc.

american pipe & supply inc.Apache Construction Corp.Barnett Jones Wilson LLC

be&K engineering & ConstructionBlue Cross Blue Shield

brasfield & gorrieC&b piping inc.

Carter & verplanck inc.Chesapeake Consulting

Con-Site ServicesConsolidated pipe & supply Co. inc.

Darryl GilleyDavid and Jackie Courington

Davis Architectsh. Kenneth white & associates inc.

hardy Corp.hattemer hornsby & bailey pC

kaiser AluminumMcabee Construction inc.

Nucor Steelrobins & Morton

southland pipe & supplyThompson CAT

volkert & associates inc.Vulcan Painters inc.

engineer capstone28

events

DEAN’S LEADERSHIP SERIES FEATURED ENTREPRENEURS TOM PATTERSON AND DR. JIM NEIDHOEFER

Tom Patterson, founder and chairman of DAXKO, spoke with UA students on Feb. 19. Patterson founded DAXKO in 1998 as a leading provider of operations and financial management solutions for member-centric, non-profit organizations. Patterson also serves as chairman of Yachtrecord, a service which enables boat owners to securely manage risk associated with the data generated by the operation of their yacht.

Dr. Jim Neidhoefer, founder and chief executive officer of Aerotonomy Inc., spoke with UA students on April 9. Neidhoefer founded Aerotonomy in 2004 as a small business dedicated to the development of state-of-the-art, unmanned aircraft systems with highly autonomous capabilities.

Patterson’s and Neidhoefer’s presentations continued the College of Engineering’s Dean’s leadership Series, which brings prominent business leaders and engineering entrepreneurs to speak with students at UA.

COE DOES ART PERFORMS “WELCOME TO BEDSIDE MANOR”

The College of Engineering does Amateur radical Theater, known as COE Does ArT, hosted dessert and a show with “Welcome to Beside Manor,” a toe-tapping performance filled with music. The show was April 25-27 in the h.M. Comer theatre.

ENGINEERING ENTERS THE EQUATION WITH UA’S REPERTORY DANCE THEATRE

This past spring, the Alabama repertory Dance Theatre, UA’s pre-professional dance company, went high-tech April 1-4 with two dances that were collaborations between UA’s dance program and the College of Engineering.

SWE SPONSORS MR. ENGINEER PAGEANT

On March 31, UA’s chapter of the Society of Women Engineers sponsored a Mr. Engineer pageant in which male students of the College dressed up as women. All proceeds benefited habitat for humanity. After an evening of hilarious competition, Daniel Garcia, a junior in aerospace engineering, “won” the event.

Dr. Jim NeidhoeferTom Patterson

Choose from polo shirts, coffee mugs, baseball caps and more. Profit generated from

the sale of these items contributes to the Capstone Engineering Society, which provides

scholarship funds to UA’s College of Engineering.

Call

Come By

Click

1-800-333-8156

174 h.M. Comer

eng.ua.edu

show your pride in the College of Engineering with top-quality apparel and gifts.

Capstone Engineering SocietyCollege of EngineeringBox 870200 Tuscaloosa, AL 35487-0200

Nonprofit Organization

U.S. Postage PAID

Tuscaloosa, AL

Permit 16

Roll Tide!

Capstone Engineering Society members receive two complimentary meals.

engineering alumni and friends are invited to join the capstone engineering Society on nov. 1 for this year’s homecoming tailgate Party on the Quad.