THIS IS CIVIL
CIVIL AND ENVIRONMENTAL
FROM THE CHAIR
DR. DAVID TIMM, P.E., F. ASCE
As the 2025-2026 academic year comes to a close, I am proud to reflect on the outstanding accomplishments within Auburn University’s Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering. This issue of our newsletter highlights what continues to make CEE so special—our people, our impact, and our shared commitment to service, engineering research, and student success.
Our faculty continue to achieve at the highest levels. From major national research awards and competitive federal funding to leadership roles in professional societies, these accomplishments reflect both individual excellence and a strong culture of collaboration. The breadth of research showcased in this issue—from stormwater infrastructure and transportation safety to environmental geochemistry and structural innovation—demonstrates the real-world impact of our work and its relevance to communities across Alabama, the nation, and beyond.
Our students remain at the heart of everything we do, and their achievements are truly remarkable. Whether earning top honors in national competitions, receiving prestigious scholarships and awards, or leading service-focused projects in the community, our students exemplify what it means to be Auburn Civil & Environmental Engineers. Experiences such as the Hard Hat Ceremony, the Student Organization Pitch Competition, the new Equipment Expo on E-Day, and hands-on service projects reinforce our belief that engineering education extends far beyond the classroom.
I am also deeply grateful to our alumni and friends. Your engagement through mentoring, advisory board service, event sponsorship, and philanthropy directly enriches the student experience and strengthens the department. Your continued support allows us to invest in facilities, programs, and opportunities that prepare our graduates to lead with integrity and purpose.
Finally, this issue reminds us of our legacy. We honor those who have shaped this department over decades and celebrate the next generation who will carry that legacy forward. Thank you to our faculty, staff, students, alumni, and partners for another outstanding academic year. I hope you enjoy this issue and take pride in all that the Auburn CEE family continues to accomplish.
War Eagle,
SPOTLIGHT FACULTY
Lauren Beckingham
W. ALLEN AND MARTHA REED ASSOCIATE PROFESSOR (ENVIRONMENTAL ENGINEERING)
Ph.D. Civil Engineering, Princeton University
Dr. Lauren Beckingham is the W. Allen and Martha Reed Associate Professor and Associate Department Chair of the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering. Her interests and expertise are in environmental geochemistry, flow, and transport in subsurface systems. She holds a M.A. and Ph.D. in Civil and Environmental Engineering from Princeton University and B.S. in Environmental Engineering from Michigan Technological University. Prior to Auburn, she was a geochemical postdoctoral fellow at Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory.
Dr. Beckingham has been a faculty member in environmental engineering at Auburn for ten years. She received the 2021 Alumni Engineering Council Junior Research Award, the 2018 100+ Women Strong
in Diversity Faculty Award, and Ginn Faculty Achievement Fellowship. For her collaboration and mentorship of undergraduate research students, she has twice received the Mark A. Spencer Creative Mentorship Award (2017, 2021).
Dr. Beckingham received CEE’s first Department of Energy Early Career Research Program Award in 2022 (the second in college history). In addition, she has a 2019 National Science Foundation CAREER award and 2018 American Chemical Society Petroleum Research Fund Doctoral New Investigator Award. She has been recognized with a 2021 American Society of Engineering Education Southeastern Division New Faculty Researcher 2nd place award and 2021 Emerging Investigator Award from the International Society of Geochemistry for which her work was featured in the Journal of Applied Geochemistry Emerging Investigator Series.
Courtesy
WRISES group at the AGU Fall Meeting, December 2025. From left: Dr. Lauren Beckingham, Riana Rivera (PhD student), Abdullah Al Nahian (PhD student), Mohammad Kariminasab (PhD student), Mark Elungat (PhD student), Samantha Mariano (MS student), and Dejene Driba (postdoctoral scholar).
of Dr. Lauren Beckingham
During the 2024-2025 academic year, Dr. Beckingham was a Le Studium Visiting Researcher Fellow as part of the Le Stadium SMART Loire Valley Program. She was supported in residence at the Insitut des Sciences de la Terre (ISTO) d’Orleans at the Centre National de la Researche Scientifique (CNRS) in Orleans, France collaborating with CNRS scientists towards understanding multiscale reactive porous media systems.
Dr. Beckingham leads the Water-Rock Interactions in Subsurface Energy Systems (WRISES) research group, which uses advanced imaging, numerical simulation, and laboratory studies to advance fundamental understanding of aqueous geochemistry and applications to emerging subsurface energy systems. She has led efforts to examine the viability of subsurface hydrogen or carbon dioxide storage systems, including evaluating regional storage sites as part of larger Department of Energy funded partnerships. Much of her team’s active work focuses on advancing understanding and predictive capabilities of mineral dissolution and precipitation reactions in real porous media to better predict contaminant fate and transport, evaluate sites for storage potential, or design new site remediation strategies.
Through her leadership, innovative research, and dedication to student mentorship, Dr. Beckingham continues to advance the field of environmental engineering while shaping the next generation of engineers. Her work not only deepens scientific understanding of complex subsurface systems but also contributes to real-world solutions for energy sustainability and environmental protection. She continues to expand her research and collaborations, Dr. Beckingham remains a driving force in addressing critical challenges at the intersection of geochemistry, infrastructure, and the environment.
(above) An ISTO organized Reactive Transport workshop in Fontainebleu, France, October 2024 (right) Dr. Lauren Beckingham at ISTO at CNRS in Orleans, France
Courtesy of Dr. Lauren Beckingham
R E S E A R C H
Current Thinking: Inside the Moores Mill Creek Research Project
By: Dr. Jose Vasconcelos
Dr. Jose Vasconcelos is leading a research project focused on Moores Mill Creek (MMC) Auburn and Opelika, both in Lee County, Alabama as part of a larger project linked to the watershed management plan update. The watershed has become impaired by siltation in recent years, likely due to the rapid development of the cities of Auburn and Opelika and related construction site runoff impacts. This study focuses on part of the Opelika portion of the watershed, shown in Figure 1, covering an area of approximately 400 ha (4 km2).
This part of the watershed covers a mix of low- to high-intensity development, simplified as residential and commercial land uses, and undeveloped forested areas and open spaces. Notable land uses include the Tiger Town shopping center, Saugahatchee Country Club, and I-85. Figure 2 below shows the location of stream monitoring stations and a breakdown of land usage.
Figure 1: Moores Mill Creek and its boundaries in Lee County, AL.
Figure 2. MMC stream network in Opelika sub-watershed.
Field data has been collected along MMC, including water levels, stream velocity, turbidity and Total Suspended Solids used for the calibration of the hydrological models, which as shown in Figure 3 has been successful. In total, three graduate students from the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering have completed their research in this watershed, including Han Xiao, Mike Bragg, and Ashmita Poudel. Currently, CEE Students Celi Cotton and Stephane Pinto have been developing their research there. We hope that these findings will guide improved decision-making on the MMC watershed.
3. Comparison of velocity hydrographs delineation sizes with head-velocity (HV) hydrograph: (a) Capps Way and (b) Hamilton bridge monitoring stations in Moores Mill Creek.
“This work is important because it is the first integrated urban watershed modeling study, which could serve as a blueprint for similar watersheds in the state that are experiencing very rapid population growth.”
- Dr. Jose Vasconcelos
(Above) Moores Mill Creek.
Friends of Moores Mill Creek
Figure
(Above) Drone photo of the AU Stormwater Research Facility (AU-SRF).
Courtesy: Dr. Michael Perez
(Above) AU-SRF Field Day 2025. Courtesy: Matt Wisenden
(Below) Megan Sharpe presenting at AU-SRF Field Day. Courtesy: Megan Sharpe
researchnewsand
Dr. Jillian Maxcy-Brown and Dr. Mark Barnett’s recent paper on evaluating statewide wastewater affordability was selected by the American Society of Civil Engineer’s Environmental and Water Resources Institute for the Best Policy Oriented Paper in the Journal of Water Resourced Planning and Management.
Dr. Frances O’Donnell’s paper on climate and land use change effects on sediment yield in an isolated wetland was selected as a President’s Research Pick by the Soil Science Society of America.
Dr. Matthew Yarnold’s research on drop-in flanges that could make steel-frame building faster and safter to construct is sponsored by the American Institute of Steel Construction. (Read More)
Dr. Huaguo Zhou was awarded $350,000 from the National Cooperative Higway Research Program to develop a standardized method for evaluating sight distance at pedestrian crossings. (Read More)
Auburn University Transportation Research Institute (AUTRI) receives $1.9 million from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration to study smart tire technology for highway safety. (Read More)
(Left) Dr. Matthew Yarnold at the Advanced Structural Engineering Laboratory.
Courtesy: Samuel Ginn College of Engineering
(Below) Dr. Huaguo Zhou standing near a pedestrian crossing on Auburn University's campus.
Courtesy: Samuel Ginn College of Engineering
AWARDS AND ACCOMPLISHMENTS Faculty and Staff
Dr. J. Brian Anderson was elected Auburn University Senate Chair.
Dr. Jeffrey LaMondia was recognized at the 2026 Auburn Author Awards ceremony. The Auburn Author Awards program recognizes faculty and staff members who published a book-length scholarly work during the previous calendar year. Dr. LaMondia's book, co-authored with colleagues from Extension, is titled, “PARTNER Toolkit: An Interactive Workbook to Create Your Community-focused Active Transportation Plan” and was financially supported by a CDC grant to support healthier communities through safer biking and walking facilities for active travel.
Yury Morales has been awarded the Rebecca Roden Award from the Graduate School.
Dr. Andrzej Nowak received the Arthur J. Boase Award from the American Concrete Institute. He was also selected for inclusion in the Golden Book of Alumni of the Warsaw University of Technology (Politechnika Warszawska).
Dr. Frances O’Donnell was selected as a recipient of the 100+ Women Strong Inspiring Leadership Faculty/ Staff Award from the Samuel Ginn College of Engineering.
Dr. Anton Schindler has been elected to serve as Vice President of the American Concrete Institute during 2026-2028.
Dr. Lynnae Stypulkowski selected as 2026 CEE Outstanding Faculty Member. She is also a recipient of the Fred H. Pumphrey Teaching Award.
Dr. David Timm was elected President of Association of Asphalt Paving Technologists.
Dr. Huaguo Zhou and his former doctoral student, Fangjian Yan, have received the 2026 Southern District ITE Technical Knowledge Special Project Award – Safety for their project Automated GIS LiDAR Based Tool for Intersection Sight Distance Assessment and Safety Improvement.
Promotion and/or Tenure:
Dr. Kadir Sener - tenure and promotion to Associate Professor
Dr. Adriana Vargas - promotion to Research Professor
Dr. Matthew Yarnold - tenure
Dr. Fan Yin - promotion to Research Professor
Dr. Lynnae Stypulkowski was selected by ASCE as the 2026 CEE Outstanding Faculty Member.
Courtesy: Dr. David Timm
Dr. Andrzej Nowak receiving the Arthur J. Boase Award from the American Concrete Institute (ACI).
Courtesy: Dr. Andrzej Nowak
SPOTLIGHTS Student
India Warren UNDERGRADUATE STUDENT
Originally from San Antonio, Texas, India Warren’s path to Auburn was anything but ordinary. A graduate of a classical charter school, she built a strong foundation in the liberal arts, excelling in literature and classical languages, while knowing her true interests lay in STEM. Although math did not come easily at first, and even caused her to question a technical career, supportive teachers helped her overcome those challenges and ultimately discover her passion for it. Drawn to both architectural design and the outdoors, civil engineering became a natural fit—allowing her to contribute to structural design while working in the field. During the college search, India was drawn to Auburn for its student-centered engineering experience and its oneof-a-kind southern charm. As an out-of-state student, finding a home away from home was also important, and she quickly found her place within the Auburn Family.
At Auburn, India has immersed herself in both engineering and student involvement. She is active in the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE), Cupola Engineering Ambassadors, Chi Epsilon, undergraduate research, and the Auburn Running Club, where she has served as president of the cross country and track & field team for the past two years. Through ASCE, she has been given the opportunity to participate in several site visits, including tours of the newly built reinforced concrete structure for the College of Education and a comprehensive structural steel tour of the North-Endzone Multi-Use Facility at Jordan-Hare Stadium, strengthening her interest in structural engineering. She also captained the Balsa Wood Bridge and Truss teams at the 2026 ASCE Gulf Coast Symposium, where both teams placed first, contributing to Auburn’s overall chapter win. Two internships within the industry have only furthered her passion for civil engineering, allowing her to gain exposure to industry design standards and project development. Last year, India was named a recipient of the Stone Leadership Award in civil and environmental engineering, recognizing her leadership within the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, the Samuel Ginn College of Engineering, and the university as a whole.
After graduating in May, India will pursue a Master of Science in Civil Engineering at Auburn through the Advanced Bachelor’s/Master’s program under Dr. Matthew Yarnold. She will be researching drop-in top flange extended connections for infill girder applications and is
eager to participate in research that could prove revolutionary to steel construction, while learning additional fundamentals of structural design. Being from a city with a rich history, she is passionate about maintaining the history of her hometown, and cities around the country, while integrating that history into the stories of the future through restorative yet innovative design. She looks forward to beginning her career in structural engineering and is forever honored to be a member of the Auburn Family.
Courtesy: India Warren
Courtesy: India Warren
SPOTLIGHTS
Abigail Lacy
GRADUATE STUDENT
Abigail Lacy, a native of Columbia, South Carolina, earned her bachelor's degree in biosystems engineering with a concentration in ecological engineering from Clemson University in 2025. Shortly after graduation, she joined Dr. Michael Perez’s group at the Auburn University Stormwater Research Facility. Now a first-year master’s student, Abigail is diving head-first into Stormwater Research.
Abigail’s first research project was the restoration of Hickory Dickory Park in Auburn. At the park, Abigail’s focus was on restoring the streambank. The park previously had unstable streambanks and was dangerous and inaccessible to visitors. In addition to regrading the bank to milder slopes and adding a floodplain to withstand higher-velocity flows, rock paths were installed for park visitors to safely access the stream. Altogether, the Stormwater
Altogether, the Stormwater Research Group constructed three bioretention cells, two vegetated and three rock-lined swales, permeable walkways, a butterfly garden and cisterns, performed over 300 feet of streambank restoration, and sodded over 25,000 square feet in just two short months. The project was a unique opportunity to contribute to the community and protect local waterways.
Her latest projects are funded by the National Cooperative Highway Research Program (NCHRP). In one project, she is investigating the effectiveness of downstream vegetated buffers on construction sites by determining the sediment capture rates of over 9,000 different buffer
configurations representing conditions found across the U.S. In her second project, she is developing a nationwide seasonal erosion risk map to inform construction scheduling and guide decisions on limiting and delaying land disturbance using geospatial analysis.
Outside of her research, Abigail can be found with an auto level or total station on Samford lawn teaching the next group of Civil Engineers in CIVL 2010 – Surveying. As a teaching assistant, she loves the opportunity to help (and learn from!) the students.
(Left) Abigail Lacy teaches students in the CIVL 2010 Surveying Lab.
(Middle) The before and after of the restored streambank at Hickory Dickory Park in Auburn.
(Bottom) Abigail Lacy being assisted while working on the Hickory Dickory Park project.
Courtesy: Abigail Lacy
Courtesy: Abigail Lacy
Student AWARDS & ACHIEVEMENTS
Marissa Barone has been awarded a Bruce Tucker -Tim Orr Memorial Scholarship from the Mississippi Valley Branch of the Associated General Contractors.
Brooks Brasfield, Hunter Desmond, Cole Tignor, and Camron Vickers received 2025-2026 Ed & Charlotte Rodgers Scholarships.
Rebecca Etter was selected as one of Auburn University's Outstanding Doctoral Students.
Stanton Freeman won 1st place during the Spring 2026 American Concrete Institute (ACI) Convention that was held in Rosemont/Chicago, Illinois.
Aaron Hardy has won an American Institute of Steel Construction travel grant.
Morgan Johnson has been selected to receive the 2026 Jeff and Linda Stone Leadership Award in Civil and Environmental Engineering.
Jeldane Joseph received the Pauline Ford-Caesar Scholarship from the Central Alabama Caribbean American Organization.
Samantha Mariano was selected to receive the 100+ Women Strong Leadership Graduate Award.
Sasin Prajapati was selected to recieve the 2026-2027 Masters Builders Solutions Concrete Materials Scholarship from ACI.
Tyler Ricks was elected President of the War Eagle Girls and Plainsman.
Carolina Triboni was selected to receive the 100+ Women Strong Departmental Annual Graduate Award. She was also selected as a recipient of the ACI Presidents' Fellowship.
India Warren is the 2026 Outstanding Student in Civil Engineering.
India Warren was selected to receive a Graduate Scholarship from the American Association of University Women –San Antonio Branch.
American Concrete Institute (ACI) Student Chapter named an ACI Outstanding University for 2025. American Society of Civil Engineers Gulf Coast Student Symposium
National Surveying - 1st Place
Timber Strong - 1st Place
3D Printed Bridge - 1st Place
Steel Bridge - 2nd Place
Sustainable Solutions - 3rd place
Regional
Traffic Competition (signal timing) – 1st place
Tug of war – 1st Place
Balsa Bridge – 1st Place
Balsa Truss – 1st Place
Carboard Chair (structural loading) – 2nd Place
FE Quiz Bowl – 2nd Place
Mystery Competition (egg protective structure) – 3rd Place
Water Environmental Student Association (WESA) won the Excellence in Communications and Marketing Award from the 2026 Auburn University Involvement Awards. WESA is also the 2026 recipient for the AAEC Outstanding Organization award for large orgs (>100) in engineering.
(Top Right) Dr. David Timm, Mike Terrell (Scott Bridge Company), Camron Vickers, Hunter Desmond, Brooks Brasfield, Skip Powe (ARBA Executive Director), and Chris Jones (ARBA Secretary and Ozark Striping Co., LLC) at the presentation of the Ed & Charlotte Rodgers Scholarship. (not pictured: Cole Tignor)
(Right) WESA is at the 2026 Auburn University Student Involvement Awards. Courtesy: WESA LinkedIn
& ACHIEVEMENTS
International Erosion Control Association Annual Conference
Grace Kerr Houde was awarded the Technical Paper of the Year award, and won the 1st place poster award.
Josh Morgan was awarded the 3rd place poster award.
The Alabama Department of Environmental Management Hickory Dickory Stormwater project received the Environmental Excellence Award.
Samuel Ginn College of Engineering Graduate Engineering Research Showcase
Matthew Kmetz - 2nd Place Overall
Abigail Lacy - Best 1st Year Graduate Student Presentation
Grace Kerr Houde - Honorable Mention #1
Pascal Obeng - Civil & Environmental Engineering Winner
Southern District Institute of Transportation Engineers (SDITE)
Elaina Fife was the SDITE Undergraduate Student Paper winner for her submission, “A Before and After Study of Rectangular Rapid Flashing Beacons for Improving Pedestrian Safety”.
Md (Roni) Roknuzzaman was the SDITE Graduate Student Paper award winner for his submission, “Pedestrian-Oriented Sight Distance Requirement for Safe Crossing at Mid-Block Crosswalks: Insights from a Case Study”.
(Left) Matthew Kmetz at the Samuel Ginn College of Engineering Graduate Engineering Research Showcase Award Ceremony. Courtesy: Samuel Ginn College of Engineering (Below) Jeldane Joseph - recipient of the Pauline Ford Caesar Scholarship from the Central Alabama Carribean American Organization. Courtesy: Jeldane Joseph
(Above) The AU Stormwater Research group at the IECA Annual Conference. Courtesy: Auburn Stormwater LinkedIn
(Top Right) The ASCE Timber Strong team at the Gulf Coast Student Symposium. Courtesy: ASCE
(Bottom Right) Pascal Obeng with his poster at the SGCoE Graduate Engineering Research Showcase.
Courtesy: Pascal Obeng
RECAP 2025 STUDENT PITCH competition
The Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering (CEE) hosted its second annual Student Organization Pitch Competition on Nov. 13 in partnership with the Alumni Advisory Board. Seven student organizations showcased innovative, student-driven initiatives, building on the momentum of the inaugural event. In the week prior, participants refined their ideas through virtual mentoring sessions with industry professionals, strengthening both strategy and presentation skills. During the competition, each group delivered formal pitches to a panel of alumni judges, demonstrating impressive professionalism and preparation. American Society of Civil Engineers, Association of Asphalt Paving Technologists, and Chi Epsilon emerged as the top three winners, and with more than $12,000 awarded, every organization received funding. Donations to this worthy effort are welcome at any time using the link, setting the stage for a closer look at each team’s vision and impact.
American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) — Access Initiative, a project focused on providing ADA accessibility improvements to a local church.
ASCE has been working on an exciting service project in the Auburn community through their ASCE Access Initiative. Funds for this project were awarded by the CEE Alumni Advisory Board during the 2nd Annual Auburn CEE Student Organization Pitch Competition. The chapter is grateful for the department and alumni's support to sponsor this project. On March 28th, 17 students volunteered to construct an ADA-compliant ramp for a local church. ASCE members were responsible for both the design and construction of the ramp, ensuring it met ADA requirements while also coordinating with local building authorities to maintain proper permitting and compliance.
With a few measuring tapes, saw cuts, and some on-the-fly problem solving, the ramp was successfully completed and is nearly ready for use. This project has provided a valuable hands-on opportunity for students to apply classroom knowledge in a real-world setting while directly serving the community. ASCE continued this effort with Phase II, scheduled for Saturday, April 18th. This phase included constructing a front-entry deck, installing handrails, and tying the ramp into the new deck to provide a complete and accessible entrance.
ASCE has been excited to see the final product come together and are grateful for the opportunity to make a meaningful impact in the local community.
ASCE
(Bottom Left) The original ASCE pitch in Fall 2025.
(Bottom Middle) Beginning construction for ramp at local church.
(Bottom Right) The ASCE ramp building team.
(Below) The ASCE team laying the ramp flooring.
Courtesy: Preston Prater
AAPT
Association of Asphalt Paving Technologists (AAPT) — Asphalt Conference 2026: Building the Next Generation of Pavement Professionals, aimed at expanding student engagement in asphalt pavement engineering featuring, among many other activities, a 5k fun run on the NCAT Test Track.
The AAPT student chapter hosted its inaugural 5K and one-mile fun run at the National Center for Asphalt Technology’s (NCAT) Test Track, drawing more than 120 participants for a truly unique racing experience. Participants completed the course by circling the 1.7-mile oval track just under two laps, offering a rare opportunity to run on a facility known worldwide for advancing asphalt pavement research and performance.
The event not only provided a distinctive course, but also highlighted NCAT’s role in real-world infrastructure innovation. According to chapter leadership, the race was a strong success in its first year and served as an engaging way to introduce the broader community to the Test Track. Organizers also noted enthusiasm from runners, particularly for the flat course that offered ideal conditions for personal records, and expressed excitement about growing and enhancing the event in future years. (Read More)
Chi Epsilon — A multifaceted initiative supporting Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) review sessions, student mentoring, and member initiation efforts.
Chi Epsilon received generous support from the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering Alumni Advisory Board during Fall 2025 and Spring 2026, funding key initiatives such as FE Review Sessions, E-Day, and chapter operations. Across both semesters, the organization hosted 16 FE Review Sessions, averaging 10–15 students each. During E-Day, members partnered with fellow CEE organizations to engage approximately 600 middle and high school students through tours and activities.
Chi Epsilon also initiated 33 new members and hosted meetings to build engagement. The year concluded with the election of a new executive board to lead the chapter forward, including its upcoming merger with ASCE.
XE
(Left) The original AAPT pitch in Fall 2025.
(Top Right) Race participants running on the NCAT Test Track. (Above).Aubie giving a runner a high-fve at the end of their race.
Courtesy: Samuel Ginn College of Engineering
(Above) The original XE pitch in Fall 2025.
(Below) XE members leading E-Day efforts,
BOARD
On behalf of the Civil and Environmental Engineering Advisory Board, I want to say what a privilege it has been to serve the department as alumni and regularly see the tremendous capabilities of our faculty, staff, and students. Auburn Civil and Environmental Engineering is fortunate to have world class people and resources, and from this position Auburn men and women are living out the Creed and changing the world. Research facilities like the NCAT Test Track, the Stormwater Research Facility, and the Advanced Structural Engineering Laboratory are equipping students in state-ofthe-art methods and producing transformative and practical research that immediately benefits our nation and our communities.
As Board members, we get an up-close look into all these aspects of the department, and we walk away even more proud to be Auburn engineers. I invite you to find ways to continue to engage and serve the department. Our service as alumni helps to advance the department in many tangible ways. Thank you for your continued support of Auburn Civil and Environmental Engineering.
Ben Carmichael CEE Advisory Board Chair Research and Development
The CEE Advisory Board on the staircase in Shelby Center in April 2026.
Courtesy: Samuel Ginn College of Engineering
Southern Company Auburn 00', '05
War Eagle!
Edward Austin
Alabama Department of Transportation Auburn ‘91
Ben Carmichael
Research and Development Southern Company Auburn ‘00, '05
Jonathan F. Childs
Director -State and Local Government Client Center
Senior Vice President
BARGE Design Solutions Auburn ‘94, ‘96
Brad Christopher President LBYD, Inc Auburn ‘91, ‘93
Jim Cooper President
Cooper Construction Auburn ‘81
Scott Cummings
Executive Director
Development Services
City of Auburn Auburn ‘87, '95
Kaye C. Davis
Bureau of Materials and Tests
Alabama Department of Transportation
Auburn ‘94, ‘96
Joe Downey
Managing Principal ARDURRA
Auburn ‘85, ‘88
Linda Figg President/CEO
Figg Bridge Group
Auburn ‘81
Christopher Kramer
Brasfield & Gorrie, LLC
Auburn ‘94
Charles A. Marsh
Territory Manager
ACIPCO
Auburn ‘01
Justin S. McDonald
Coastal Resiliency Program Manager
USACE, Mobile District
Auburn ‘05, ‘07
Frank McFadden
McFadden Engineering, Inc.
Auburn ‘81, ‘84
George McGlamery
Senior Commercial Consultant
ExxonMobil Global Services Company
Auburn ‘86
Guy O’Connor (Emeritus)
Auburn ‘85
Casey Robinson Troutman
Georgia Power
Auburn ‘00, ‘04
Jordan Ross
Senior Preconstruction Manager
Hoar Construction
Auburn ‘09, ‘12
Hayley Sistrunk
Brasfield and Gorrie, LLC Auburn ‘10
David Stejskal JACOBS
Auburn ‘00, ‘02
Jeff Stone (Emeritus) Brasfield and Gorrie, LLC
Auburn ‘79
Donald W. Vaughn (Emeritus)
Auburn ‘71
Derrick D. Vincent JACOBS
Auburn ‘99
Jordan Watkins
CEO
PTAC Consulting Engineers
Auburn ‘12
Dale York (Emeritus)
Auburn ‘76, ‘78
Various photos taken from the Fall CEE Advisory Board Meeting held in November 2025.
By: Dr. David Timm
HARD HAT Ceremony
The Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering proudly hosted its Spring 2026 Hard Hat Ceremony, a signature tradition held each spring and fall to celebrate students’ entry into the major. This spring marked a milestone year, with 94 students completing Surveying (CIVL 2010) and officially welcomed into the CEE community—the largest surveying cohort to date. Faculty and staff gathered to congratulate students on reaching this important moment and to reaffirm their commitment to mentoring them throughout their academic and professional journeys. During the ceremony, students were reminded of the responsibility civil engineers hold to protect public safety and serve society with integrity. Each student received a hard hat, symbolizing their transition from classroom learning to emerging professional practice.
I believe in work, hard work.
(Bottom Left) Photo of a hardhat and concrete AU on Samford Lawn. (Top to Bottom on Right) Photos of students after receiving their hard hats.
STUDENT RECOGNITION AND HONORS BANQUET
By: Dr. David Timm
The Spring 2026 Civil and Environmental Engineering Student Recognition and Honors Banquet was a memorable evening celebrating the achievements, resilience, and aspirations of our students. The event recognized the accomplishments of 85 undergraduate students and 30 graduate students, highlighting their academic excellence, leadership, and commitment to the profession. We were grateful for the generous support of Brasfield & Gorrie, whose sponsorship helped make the evening possible.
The banquet featured an inspiring keynote address from alumnus Barry Fagan (Class of 1994), who challenged students to focus on getting better every day. His remarks emphasized the power of showing up consistently, building success over time, and grounding professional growth in integrity and character. He encouraged students to view fatigue not as a stopping point, but as a signal to be ready for what comes next. Mr. Fagan also urged graduates to respond to a rapidly changing world as agents of change, challenging the paradigm of doing things a certain way simply because “that’s how it’s always been done.”
Adding a memorable and unexpected highlight to the evening was a surprise musical ensemble featuring Drs. Vasconcelos and Anderson, who delighted the assembled guests with their musical stylings. Their performance brought an element of fun and camaraderie to the celebration and showcased yet another dimension of the talent within the CEE community.
Student speaker India Warren offered a compelling reflection as the first engineer in her family. Speaking about new beginnings and the pursuit of dreams, she encouraged her peers to be lifelong learners, to approach challenges with confidence, to ask questions, and to take chances— both on themselves and on others.
The evening concluded with remarks from faculty speaker Dr. Lynnae Stypulkowski, who spoke on authenticity, adversity, and acquaintanceship. She encouraged students to be their best authentic selves, to embrace adversity as a source of growth, and to help those around them—even when it is not expected.
Together, the evening’s messages reflected the strength, character, and promise of the CEE community.
More photos from the 2026 Spring Student Recognition and Honors Banquet.
(Above) Spring/Summer 2026 graduates on the staircase in Brown-Kopel.
STUDENT ORGANIZATIONS
STUDENT ORGANIZATIONS
Collection of photos representing various activities of the Civil and Environmental Engineering Student Organizations. Courtesy: Samuel Ginn College of Engineering, Dr. J. Brian Anderson, ASCE, ACI, WESA, ITE, AAPT, XE
ASCE
By: Brody Stringer
The American Society of Civil Engineers student chapter celebrated a series of milestones this spring, beginning with the election of its new executive board on Feb. 24. With new leadership in place, members are optimistic about the year ahead. From March 12–14, 37 members traveled to Tuscaloosa to compete in the Gulf Coast Regional Symposium, where Auburn earned overall champion honors—its fourth title in five years, continuing a strong tradition of success.
Beyond competition, the organization has focused on building community. New civil engineering polos and fishing shirts were recently introduced through the CEE spirit store and have been met with an enthusiastic response from members. There are additional opportunities to support ASCE through to spirit store, from purchasing a travel tumbler to sponsoring a competition team.
Looking ahead, members and supporters are encouraged to follow the organization’s Instagram for updates on upcoming events, including the highly anticipated annual Crawfish Boil, one of the group’s largest and most popular traditions.
(Left) QR code to access the ASCE spirit store. Courtesy: Brody Stringer
(Below) ASCE Executive Leadership at the 2026 ASCE Gulf Coast Student Symposoium. (Bottom) ASCE enjoys the weather as they meet outside.
Courtesy: Brody Stringer
By: Sasin Prajapati
The Auburn University Student Chapter of the American Concrete Institute (ACI) had a productive semester, strengthening industry relationships and student development. Central to this effort has been the chapter's biweekly "Lunch and Learn" series, held every other Thursday, bringing working professionals directly to students. Speakers from WJE, Gresham Smith, and Brasfield & Gorrie have led recent sessions, with more firms lined up for April — giving members consistent exposure to real-world practice and the professionals shaping it.
The chapter carried that momentum into national competition at the ACI Fall Concrete Convention in Baltimore, where Auburn's team finished 2nd overall and 1st in the U.S. in the Egg Protection Device Competition — a result that reflects the chapter's preparation and competitive drive.
A highlight of the semester was a site visit to the Alabama Statehouse construction project, facilitated by Rabren Construction. At over $400 million, it ranks among the state's most significant public infrastructure investments, and walking the site gave students firsthand appreciation for the scale and precision that concrete construction demands at that level.
The chapter was excited to compete in the FRP Reinforced Concrete Beam Competition at the ACI Spring Convention in Chicago.
Courtesy: Sasin Prajapati
(Top Right) The ACI student chapter went to the ACI Fall 2025 Concrete Convention in Baltimore, MD.
(Bottom Right) At the ACI Fall Convention the Auburn University ACI student chapter finished 1st in the Egg Protective Device Competition. Courtesy: Sasin Prajapati
(Above) ACI had the opportunity to tour the new Alabama Statehouse construction project in Montgomery, AL facilitated by Rabren Construction.
CHI EPSILON
By: Carson Beck
Spring 2026 was a busy and productive semester for Chi Epsilon. The semester began with Chi Epsilon serving a major role during E-Day 2026, where members led tours for middle and high school students from across the nation and helped bring the brand-new Heavy Equipment Showcase to life. Following E-Day, Chi Epsilon continued with regularly scheduled general body meetings throughout the semester. The final meeting was bittersweet for the current executive board, as it marked the conclusion of their one-year terms.
During the third general body meeting, a new executive board was elected, consisting of five new initiates and one returning member. We are proud to announce the new executive board: President Salena Marino, Vice President Charles Gil, Secretary Georgia McInnis, Treasurer Hadleigh Blake, Editor Lex Cribbet, and Marshal Ethan Jowers.
To round out the semester, Chi Epsilon initiated 21 new members, bringing the total number of active members in the Auburn University chapter to approximately 62.
(Top) Spring 2026 XE Initiates.
(Bottom) Both new and current XE Members with their faculty advisor, Dr. J. Brian Anderson. Courtesy: Dr. J. Brian Anderson
By: Elaina Fife
Throughout the Spring semester, Auburn University Institute of Transportation Engineers (AUITE) organized various successful lunch and learn meetings, inviting speakers from Alabama Department of Transportation (ALDOT), consulting firms, and academia to discuss diverse topics in transportation engineering. Topics included traffic safety, analysis, and emerging technologies, offering students insights into the latest industry trends. The interactive format, including Q&A sessions, encouraged student participation. Recent lunch and learn meetings featured Becky Rodgers with Neel-Schafer, Dr. Rod Turochy with Auburn University, Brandy Ezelle with the city of Auburn, and Jennifer Roberson with AECOM’s office in Birmingham.
Students in ITE were successful in taking part in the opportunities offered by the organization including Elaina Fife as the winner of the Southern District ITE undergraduate research paper award and Md. Roknuzzaman as the winner of the SDITE graduate research paper award. Elaina Fife was also awarded the Alabama section of ITE’s Charles E. Alexander Memorial Scholarship for the 2025 – 2026 academic year. Md. Roknuzzaman also received an award for the Best Presentation Award at the Research Symposium hosted by Auburn University. Our student chapter participated and tied for second place at the Alabama Section ITE Traffic Bowl hosted by the University of Alabama at Huntsville.
(Top) Members of ITE welcomed David Robinson and Beckiy Rodgers a guest speakers at the November 2025 ITE Meeting.
(Above) Jackson Tolerton and Elaina Fife at the ITE Traffic Bowl at University of Alabama at Huntsville.
Courtesy: Elaina Fife
By: Anthony Matthews
The Geotechnical Society at Auburn (GSA) had an active and rewarding semester filled with academic, professional, and social engagement. Among this semester’s highlights was a guest seminar by Dr. Mike Mooney of the Colorado School of Mines, which gave students and faculty the opportunity to engage with current topics in tunnel and underground construction.
Society members also proudly represented Auburn University at Geo-Congress 2026, where they connected with researchers, practitioners, and fellow students while participating in one of the field’s leading professional events.
In addition to conferences and seminars, the society hosted a bowling social that brought together students, faculty, friends, and families for an evening of fun and community outside the classroom and lab.
The semester also reflected the strong research involvement of Auburn’s geotechnical students, with members contributing to projects in areas such as pile bent behavior, timber pile load testing, and slope stability and internal erosion.
(Above) GSA attends a seminar presented by Dr. Mike Mooney (Colorado School of Mines) on "Implementing Information Engineering and AI during Tunnel Construction".
(Top Right) Murilo Pinheiro Tarozzo, Brock Huner, Najibullah Zulfeqar, and Dr. Jack Montgomery attended Geo-Congress 2026.
(Bottom Right) Anna Lancaster working on the Slope for the geotechnical chamber at the Advanced Structural Engineering Laboratory (ASEL).
Courtesy: Anthony Matthews
E-DAY
More than 3,500 visitors came to campus at Auburn University to experience Engineering Day, also known as E-Day. Hundreds of students and families explored careers in civil and environmental engineering through department tours, conversations with faculty and students, and interactive displays inside Brown-Kopel Center. The first-ever heavy equipment display outside was a crowd favorite—because it’s not every day you get to see machines like that up close and personal!
A huge thank you to our incredible partners that made the equipment expo possible:
• Alabama Concrete Industries Association Inc.: John Sorrell
• Alabama Department of Transportation: Kaye Chancellor Davis, Stephanie Abbett, Desirae Carleton, and William Brown
• Morris-Shea Bridge Company, Inc.: Duane Bents and Matthew Preskitt
• Scott Bridge Company Inc.: Andy Carroll
• Thompson Tractor Company: Derick Freeman
• United Rentals: Todd Richardson and Jerrica Daniel
(Top Left) E-Day Banner outside of Brown-Kopel.
(Middle Left) CEE Students assisting with the Heavy Civil Equipment Showcase outside of Harbert Engineering Center.
(Bottom Right) Dr. Anton Schindler stands with Alabama Concrete Industries Association Inc., John Sorrell and other representatives.
(Top Right) Heavy Equipment Showcase sign with crane in the background.
(Bottom Right) CEE Students, Ann Moore, and Dr. Jorge Rueda stand outside the Alabama Construction Workforce Alliance trailer.
OUTSTANDING ALUMNI
Barry Fagan, ‘94 civil engineering, delivered the keynote address at the International Erosion Control Association Annual Conference, and was awarded the Sustained Contributor award.
Lloyd Pitts, ’83 civil engineering, – Class of 2026 inductee to the State of Alabama Engineering Hall of Fame
K-Rob Thomas, ‘01 civil engineering, was selected as the recipient of the Franklin Brittain Matthews Legacy Award from the Samuel Ginn College of Engineering.
Casey Robinson Troutman, ’00 and ’04 civil engineering, was selected as the recipient of the Black Alumni Award from the Samuel Ginn College of Engineering.
Mark Widdowson, 87' civil engineering, receieved a 2026 Outstanding Civil and Environmental Engineering Alumni Award from the Samuel Ginn College of Engineering.
Emilee Woods, '13 civil engineering, was recognized as part of the Roads & Bridges inaugural Top 25 Under 40.
Fangjian Yan, '24 civil engineering, and Dr. Huaguo Zhou, have received the 2026 Southern District ITE (SDITE) Technical Knowledge Special Project Award – Safety for their project Automated GIS LiDAR Based Tool for Intersection Sight Distance (ISD) Assessment and Safety Improvement.
Emilee Woods '13 civil engineering.
Courtesy: Roads & Bridges
(Above) Dr. David Timm and Lloyd Pitts, '83 civil engineering, at the Alabama Engineering Hall of Fame.
(Right) Casey Robinson Troutman '00 and '04 civil engineering. Courtesy: Samuel Ginn College of Engineering
In Memoriam Dr. Robert "Bob" Vecellio
The Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering mourns the loss of Dr. Robert Vecellio, Professor Emeritus, who passed away on Saturday, Feb. 28, 2026. Dr. Vecellio (aka, Dr. Bob) joined Auburn in 1973 as an assistant professor of civil engineering and spent his entire distinguished 39-year career educating our students, serving the profession, improving transportation safety, and leading by example. Dr. Bob was deeply committed to engaging and mentoring the next generation of transportation engineers which was best exemplified by him serving as faculty advisor for our Institute of Transportation Engineers student chapter from 1976 until 2003. He served as our Local Technical Assistance director from 1995 to 2012 and assistant department head from 2001 to 2012. Dr. Bob also engaged in meaningful professional leadership serving as the ASCE-Alabama Section President (2002-2003) and SecretaryTreasurer (1990-1991). He was heavily involved with the Alabama Section of the Institute of Transportation Engineers (ALSITE). He served as ALSITE President (1981-1982) and was recognized with numerous ALSITE awards throughout his career. These awards included the Herman J. Hoose Distinguished Service Award in 1991, Transportation Engineer of the Year in 1992, Special Citation of Meritorious Service in 2008, and the Excellence in Transportation Engineering Education Award after his retirement in 2014. We are immensely grateful that Dr. Vecellio spent his professional career with us. His commitment to the next generation of Auburn transportation engineers will live on through the Robert L. Vecellio Legacy Transportation Engineering Endowed Scholarship which he started through his own generosity and love for Auburn. Anyone wishing to contribute to the scholarship fund may do so at this link
LET’S GET SOCIAL
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