INNOVATIONS AU G U S T 2015
Innovations is published by the University of Houston College of Technology Marketing and Communications Department. EDITOR Marilyn H. Jones Manager of Communications and Marketing, UH College of Technology GRAPHIC DESIGNER Crystal N. Smiley Graphic Designer, Communications and Marketing, UH College of Technology If you would like to receive the monthly Innovations e-newsletter at your home or business email address, please subscribe at www.uh.edu/news-events/mailing-lists.
FROM THE DEAN
GREETINGS With genuine UH pride, I am pleased to share that our College continues to grow at an unprecedented pace. We offer unmatched opportunities for innovation and academic success. Our students enthusiastically enrich their learning experiences at UH and in the College of Technology in many innovative ways - from exploring new power sources for wireless sensor networks to uncovering new ways to improve industrial construction processes. Please take a moment to read the top stories, engage with us on social media, and learn about the achievements and contributions of our students and alumni. You are invited to become acquainted with our talented faculty – exceptional teachers, technologists, and researchers who have real-world connections to the business and industry communities. On behalf of our faculty and staff here, we are looking forward to the continuing involvement and support from our alumni and friends. We will keep you updated on our growth and progress, and invite you to take part.
With warm regards,
Dr. William E. Fitzgibbon III Dean, UH College of Technology
INNOVATIONSMAGAZINE
August 2015
TABLEofCONTENTS RESEARCH
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PROGRAMS
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UH Professor Chosen as Fulbright Specialist to Participate as Field Expert
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Study Unveils the Challenges of Imposter Phenomenon among Academics
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NSF Grant Advances Cyber-Security Research and Education
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$1.2 Million NSF Grant Boosts Effort to Increase Engineering Technology Scholars Technology Center Forms a Fitting Partnership for Training STEM Education: College of Technology Welcomes Young Emerging Technologists
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Construction Management Scholarship Established
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UH Construction Management Student Earns Top Score in the Nation
ACCOLADES & HONORS
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Students Earn Top Awards in Four Competitions at 2015 AITP National Collegiate Conference
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Faculty Excellence Award Winners Honored
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Veteran Advisor Recognized for Staff Excellence
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Celebrating Our Graduates
ADVANCEMENT
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Innovation is Always in Style Victor Costa Scholarship Fund Established
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25 OF THE 50 BEST JOBS IN AMERICA CNNMoney publishes a list of the best jobs in America, and the College of Technology prepares graduates for half of the fastest growing top careers. Although many of these jobs may require additional training, a few years of experience, and sometimes a graduate degree, it’s great to see that there is a world of possibilities for our graduates. Contact the Academic Services Center at 713-743-4100 or asc@uh.edu to learn more about College of Technology degree programs.
Software Architect Video Game Designer Landman Continuous Improvement Manager Database Developer Information Assurance Analyst Portfolio Manager User Experience Designer IT Program Manager Project Control Specialist Quality Assurance Coordinator Strategy Manager Product Development Director Product Management Director Facilities Director Software Quality Assurance Manager Biomedical Engineer IT Security Consultant Telecommunications Network Engineer Technical Consultant Customer Service Director Operations Director Construction Manager Research & Development Engineer, IT Proposal Manager
UH Professor Chosen as Fulbright Specialist to Participate as Field Expert
RESEARCH
“Dr. Iyer’s appointment as
- Dr. Paula Myrick Short, Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs and Provost.
a Fulbright Specialist is a tribute to her distinguished career in biotechnology and adds an esteemed honor to a full list of achievements at the University of Houston.” - Dr. Paula Myrick Short, Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs and Provost.
Dr. Rupa Iyer, Associate Dean of Research and Graduate Studies of the College of Technology at the University of Houston has been recommended for the Fulbright Specialist Roster after receiving the endorsement from the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs (ECA) and the Institute of International Education’s Council for International Exchange of Scholars (CIES). The Specialist Roster is a prestigious list of experts who provide assistance with projects requiring their specialized knowledge, skills, or research. The roster includes a list of all candidates who are eligible to be matched with incoming project requests from overseas academic institutions for Fulbright Specialists. “Dr. Iyer’s appointment as a Fulbright Specialist is a tribute to her distinguished career in biotechnology and adds an esteemed honor to a full list of achievements at the University of Houston,” said Paula Myrick Short, Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs and Provost upon learning the news of Iyer’s candidacy. Iyer earned a Ph.D. in Botany and Plant Pathology from Michigan State University and obtained a Master’s degree in Biotechnology from the University of Mumbai in India. She conducted her postdoctoral studies in the M.D. Anderson Cancer Research Center, Houston. Iyer has been part of the College of Technology since 2005 as a credentialed associate professor with an impressive curriculum vitae.
Iyer was named Associate Dean of Research and Graduate Studies in 2014, in addition to her appointment as the Director for Center for Life Sciences Technology and the founding director for Biotechnology programs. Her research is in the area of environmental biotechnology with applications in bioremediation. Iyer has received a multitude of recognitions, awards, and grants for her outstanding contributions to the university and her field, including the University of Houston Excellence in Teaching Award, 2014; Fluor Award for Service Excellence, College of Technology, 2013; Summer Undergraduate Research Award (SURF) Mentor Award, 2013; and the Outstanding Indian Award, teaching, India Culture Center, 2011; among others. “Rupa joins the ranks of the elite with this nomination. She is the first Fulbright Specialist Roster candidate we have had since I came to UH. As a result, we expect to see many more accomplishments coming from her program and the College of Technology,” said Jaime Ortiz, Vice Provost for Global Strategies and Studies. “I am very excited and look forward to implementing and disseminating the interdisciplinary research based program created, designed, and developed right here in UH. Dr. Ortiz’s assistance during the application process was very crucial to my success,” Iyer said of her achievement.
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RESEARCH
Study Unveils the Challenges of Imposter Phenomenon among Academics Doubts of professional role confidence or “imposterism” is a rarely explored issue among academics. A research study conducted by Dr. Holly Hutchins, “Outing the Imposter: A Study Exploring Imposter Phenomenon (IP) among Higher Education Faculty,” was published in the journal, New Horizons in Adult Education and Human Resource Development (Spring 2015).
study involving over 300 faculty at two major research institutions. Dr. Hutchins and her graduate assistant Hilary Rainbolt presented their study results at the University Forum for Resource Development (UFHRD) 2015 conference, held in the School of Management and Marketing, University College Cork, June 3-5, 2015.
Results of the pilot study (61 faculty) suggest that higher education faculty experience moderately high levels of imposter phenomenon, with the highest reported by untenured faculty. Findings also indicated that emotional exhaustion is positively related to IP, and faculty reporting moderate-high levels of IP also reported greater use of adaptive coping skills to address imposter thoughts.
The study focused on critical incidents gathered during faculty interviews that focused on the events that triggered imposter experiences and the role of social support (mentoring) and other coping (self-directed) that helped mitigate such experiences. The paper was recognized as a finalist for the Alan Moon Memorial Prize, which honors the best refereed paper at the conference.
Hutchins’ other research, “Coping with the Imposter: The Role of Mentoring and Other Coping Skills among Academic Faculty,” is an extension of a much larger comparative
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RESEARCH
Dr. Holly M. Hutchins, associate professor, human resource development, and graduate assistant, Hilary Rainbolt, attended the University Forum for Human Resource Development (UFHRD) conference in Cork, Ireland to present results from their research study on imposter phenomenon.
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RESEARCH
NSF Grant Advances Cybersecurity Research and Education
University of Houston professors William Arthur Conklin and Chris Bronk, received a three-year, $286,000 National Science Foundation (NSF) award that will support the creation of a cybersecurity community based on a wiki. Their project, “SaTC-EDU: EAGER: A Wiki Space for Information Security Education Exchange,� will foster a sharing community of educators from institutions in the Centers of Academic Excellence (CAE) program and others interested in improving their cybersecurity education resources. The community will maintain a mediated online wiki platform that will assist with mapping resources and tools to the Knowledge Unit (KU) system designed to cover required learning areas in cybersecurity. Through the wiki, participants will share a variety of educational materials such as texts, labs, tools, and exams. This project will help reduce the amount of work required to build and retool classes to the rapidly evolving field of cybersecurity.
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Recognized by the National Security Agency and the Department of Homeland Security.
PROGRAMS
$1.2 Million NSF Grant Boosts Effort to Increase Engineering Technology Scholars The Engineering Technology Department is one of two departments at the University of Houston that has received a combined $1.2 million from the National Science Foundation to support scholarships for students in engineering technology and computer science. The money comes from the NSF’s S-STEM (Scholarships for Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) program. Initiated several years ago, the program is intended to improve education opportunities and support programs for academically talented students with financial need in an effort to boost the nation’s STEM workforce. Dr. Xiaojing Yuan, associate professor of engineering technology in the UH College of Technology, is principal investigator for a $639,895, grant. She said it will be used to provide scholarships for an estimated 40 engineering technology students over the next five years, within the disciplines of computer engineering technology, mechanical engineering technology, and electrical power engineering technology. Rakesh Verma, professor of computer science, received $583,597 to provide scholarships for computer science students. A number of national reports have identified a clear national need for more STEM graduates. A 2012 report by President Obama’s Council of Advisors on Science and Technology recommended that the nation graduate 1 million new scientists and engineers by 2022 in order to be competitive in the 21st century. A 2013 Brookings Institute report found that Houston ranked 5th out of 100 U.S. cities for STEM career demand, but 72nd in supplying STEM workers. About two-thirds of the local STEM workforce
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with at least a bachelor’s degree comes from outside of Texas; almost one-fourth were born outside of the United States. UH and other universities are working to address the need; enrollment in the Department of Engineering Technology has jumped by about 35 percent over the past five years, and the NSF scholarships will help to boost the STEM workforce even more. Realizing that addressing the need will take more than simply offering a scholarship, the Department of Engineering Technology has designed a program, Succeed in Engineering Technology Scholars, or SETS, to identify and develop future leaders in the field. Students will be selected for the scholarships, worth up to $5,000 and renewable for up to three years, based on academic ability or promise and financial need. Dr. Yuan and Dr. Heidar Malki, professor of engineering technology and a co-PI on the grant, said the scholarships are only part of the program. SETS is designed as an active learning community, with scholarship recipients gaining regular interaction with faculty, as well as a deeper understanding and relationship with local industry through meeting with guest speakers and networking professionals from local companies. SETS participants also will showcase their projects in the biannual design symposium. Malki said organizers hope to have the first cohort chosen by fall 2015. Once students are selected, they must maintain a 3.0 grade point average to remain in the program the following year.
PROGRAMS
Technology Center Forms a Fitting Partnership for Training Realizing that virtual online courses have become the norm for many working professionals, Piping Technology & Products is leveraging more than thirty years of manufacturing experience with expertise within the UH Center for Technology Literacy (CTL) to train engineers in piping design. The Center for Technology Literacy (CTL), promotes education and training in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM). In addition, it focuses on the educational needs of the energy business sector within Houston, Texas. Dr. Gary Whittredge, coordinator of energy education and training for the CTL, said, “We have the capability to develop a wide ranging educational curriculum, with courses that address first level supervisory training and the basics of entrepreneurship.” The course, Piping Design and Analysis Influence on Pipe Support Selection and Design, is an overview of piping design and analysis, including factors that affect overall configuration, piping layout, the total system, as well as an introductory into pipe stress analysis (flexibility concerns and other design considerations); and how all those factors ultimately influence pipe support and pipe hanger design. Field engineers, maintenance engineers, piping designers, process engineers, operations managers, operators, anyone working with new construction, or new engineers just starting out are taking the course. Essentially anyone
needing to design a new piping system, changing a current system, surveying a system or just needing to spec out pipe supports can benefit from the course. “We are seeing an increased need for piping designers and engineers as a good amount of retirees are exiting our industry. There are few avenues for an up and coming piping designer or engineer, and our piping design course is one of the few programs available,” said UH alumnus Randy Bailey, vice president of Piping Technology & Products. The 30-day online course is approved for eight professional development credit hours. Contact UH Continuing and Professional Studies at 713-743-1060 for more information.
Dr. Gary Whittredge coordinates energy education and training for the Center for Technology Literacy at UH.
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PROGRAMS
College of Technology Welcomes Young Emerging Technologists LEMELSON-MIT JV INVENTEAMS PROGRAM VISITS UH
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PROGRAMS
Sponsored by the Lemelson-MIT JV InvenTeams program, more than 100 inquisitive high school students toured the University of Houston College of Technology labs and the College of Architecture on April 14. Houston’s stormy spring skies did not dampen their spirits as they enthusiastically interacted with technology faculty, staff, and student ambassadors. The students and their advisors came from several Houston area high school campuses, which included KIPP Sunnyside High School, KIPP Houston High School, Cypress Springs High School, The Energy Institute, Waller High School, YES Prep West Campus, Galena Park High School, and Sharpstown International School.
their hands-on skills in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) through two national grants initiatives for grades 9-12 - JV InvenTeams and InvenTeams. The opportunity to work with the Lemelson-MIT Program evolved from relationships formed between Leigh Estabrooks, Invention Education Officer at Lemelson-MIT, Karen Cohen, Program Coordinator of the Coordination of Robotics Education outreach program in the College of Technology, and Dr. Ray Cline, Chair of the Department of Information and Logistics Technology.
The Lemelson-MIT Program celebrates outstanding inventors and inspires young people to pursue creative lives and careers through invention. It recognizes students who show promise as emerging inventors that impact important sectors of the global economy and honors mid-career inventors with a prestigious cash prize. The program also encourages youth to invent and develop
Professor Medhat El Nehas takes students on a tour through the mechanical engineering technology lab.
UH Program Manager, Karen Cohen (left) arranged the event, working with Leigh Estabrooks, Invention Education Officer, Massachusetts Institute of Technology.
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PROGRAMS
Construction Management Scholarship Established The construction law section of the State Bar of Texas has agreed to fund a $5,000 per year scholarship to a construction management student(s) at the University of Houston. The scholarship will be offered in fall 2015.
Now a principal at Cokinos Bosien & Young law firm with more than 30 years of experience, Flake is thrilled about being in a position to mentor and nurture the careers of the construction industry’s future professionals.
Attorneys Richard Flake and Denis Ducran, adjunct professors in the construction management program at UH, were instrumental in establishing the scholarship. Realizing that earning a college degree is becoming an increasingly sizable investment, especially with the deregulation of tuition, their goal is to help students get into this dynamic industry in the City of Houston, where the future is virtually limitless.
Also a UH alumnus, from the College of Architecture, Denis Ducran is now vice president and general counsel at Satterfield and Pontikes Construction Inc. He is active in the company’s recruitment of UH construction management students on campus. Now in their ninth semester of teaching undergraduate construction law and ethics, both Flake and Ducran serve on the Council of the Construction Law Section of the State Bar of Texas, working together on securing the approval for the UH scholarship.
Flake’s connection to the construction business began early, when he went to work in the construction industry for his dad’s small electrical business. After graduating from the UH Law Center in 1981, he served as a prosecuting attorney before becoming general counsel at SpawGlass Inc., a longtime construction company based in Houston.
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From left: Richard Flake and Denis Ducran
PROGRAMS
Construction Management Student Earns Top Score in the Nation Rebecca Done earned the nation’s top score on the American Institute of Constructors’ national exam this spring.
By Jeannie Kever For the third time, a student from the University of Houston’s Construction Management Department has earned the highest score on a national certification exam. “I think that’s the expectation,” Rebecca Done said of earning the top mark. “But I just wanted to pass on the first time.” She did that and more on the eight-hour American Institute of Constructors’ national exam earlier this spring, scoring 266 points out of a possible 300.
management programs require their students to take the test, the UH program in the College of Technology is the only one to require it for graduation. “Our message to the industry is, if you hire from UH, you are guaranteed zero faulty product,” Eldin said. Earning the top score is another benchmark of quality. “With this accomplishment, Rebecca has positioned herself to join any of the best national and international employers in the world,” he said.
“Our message to the industry is, if you hire from UH, you are guaranteed zero faulty product.” - Dr. Neil Eldin
Neil Eldin, chairman of the Department of Construction Management, said the accomplishment, coupled with that of previous graduates Nicole Rawlins and Eric Talley in 2013, is evidence of the program’s strength. “In the last couple of years, three of our students have earned the highest score in the nation on this exam,” he said. “The national passing percentage is less than 50 percent. Passing this exam is not a small accomplishment.” For the most recent exam, administered in March, 788 students took the exam; 70 percent of the UH students passed, compared with a national passing rate of 48 percent. Eldin’s goal is 80 percent. All UH construction management students must pass the test to graduate. Although many accredited construction
A senior scheduled to graduate in December 2015, Done came to the construction management department with real-world experience. She had worked in the industry in Tucson, both as a heavy equipment operator and on the administrative side, before moving to Houston and deciding to complete her degree. The department offers two programs, an industrial track, geared to training leaders for large-scale projects, including refineries and petrochemical plants, and a commercial building track. Done is taking courses for the industrial track. “I met with Dr. Eldin, and I’ve never looked back,” she said. “I want to be part of the building process.”
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ACCOLADES & HONORS
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University of Houston students scored major victories at the Association of Information Technology Professionals (AITP) National Collegiate Conference in Omaha, Nebraska, March 26-29, 2015. The UH AITP Student Chapter sent 12 student members to this year’s event, including 10 students from the College of Technology’s Computer Information Systems (CIS) Program in the Department of Information and Logistics Technology. The novice chapter, having only competed in one prior AITP National Collegiate Conference, was up against 481 students from 58 universities from around the country. Despite the formidable competition, the UH team’s hard work ultimately paid off.
In addition to the individual student achievements, the UH AITP Student Chapter received recognition at the event. The team tied for third Best Overall School based on the high student placements at the competition. The chapter was one of the top four recognized for the title of Outstanding Student Chapter for the 2013/2014 Academic Year.
The students were honored in the following competition categories:
Professor Bret Detillier, CIS Instructional Associate Professor and AITP Faculty Advisor, attributed the success to the students. “I am very proud of our AITP Student Chapter for all of their hard work in sending such an enthusiastic group to compete on the national level,” said Professor Detillier. “It is further proof of the caliber of our students who continue to impress others with their knowledge and their conduct in competitive situations.”
• Visual Studio.Net — First place, Tahmid Mahmud and Gagan Singh, Computer Science Majors • Mobile Application Development — Second place, Cuong Phu Ngo and Tin Van, CIS Majors • Microsoft Applications — Second place, Zack Blasier and Cuong Phu Ngo, CIS Majors • Database Design — Honorable mention, Cuong Phu Ngo and Lawrence Dang, CIS Majors
Impressed by the students’ performance, Dean William Fitzgibbon commended the team for their “exceptional collaboration” between the College of Technology and the Department of Computer Science in the College of Natural Science and Mathematics.
ACCOLADES & HONORS
Students Earn Top Awards at AITP National Collegiate Conference He also gave credit to the faculty who provided the students with the foundational skills and knowledge to succeed. “It is a testament to the CIS and Computer Science faculty, and all of our diligence in preparing our students,” he said. UH student winner, Tin Van, praised the value of joining the organization on campus. “The AITP has allowed me to connect with other students, professionals, and mentors,” Van said. “The national competition allowed us to delve deeply into technical challenges while learning to work with a team.”
is a non-profit group that is made up of 62 local chapters organized on a geographic basis, and 286 student chapters at colleges and universities. The UH AITP Student Chapter is open to any UH student with a passion for information technology. www.aitpuh.com
The UH AITP Student Chapter received sponsorship for the competition from Chevron, in addition to the University of Houston’s Information and Logistics Technology Department, the Center for Information Security Research and Education, and the Computer Science Department. The Association of Information Technology Professionals (AITP) is a professional association that focuses on advancing information technology through professional development, education, and national policies. The group
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FACULTY EXCELLENCE AWARD WINNERS HONORED In celebration of their exceptional accomplishments, four faculty members in the University of Houston College of Technology were recognized with awards for research, teaching, and service on May 1, 2015 at the UH Sugar Land campus.
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ACCOLADES & HONORS Dean William Fitzgibbon presented the awards and acknowledged the faculty advisory committee for their diligence in reviewing nominations and recommendation of award recipients. Dean Fitzgibbon also expressed pride and appreciation for their dedication to the advancement of innovative research, excellent teaching, and steadfast commitment to service. “We are certainly honored to offer this award program and are proud of our history, and focus on innovation and technology,” said Dean Fitzgibbon.
Dr. Holly Hutchins, Associate Professor of Human Resource Development (HRD) and coordinator DR. HOLLY HUTCHINS of the HRD undergraduate program, received the award for Faculty Research Excellence, which recognizes a tenured or tenure-track faculty member for scholarly contributions. Dr. Hutchins is an established scholar who has been widely cited in nearly all of the leading journals. She has published seven peer-reviewed publications and eight peer-reviewed domestic and international conference publications related to e-learning and learning transfer within the last two years. Among 550 submissions at the 2014 Southern Management Association conference, she earned the best paper award in the human resource management track. She has published chapters in The Routledge Companion to Human Resource Development and The Psychology for Business Success. Dr. Hutchins has published four refereed conference proceedings related to learning transfer. Hutchins serves on the editorial board of prominent human resources development journals. Her work has been
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cited more than 1,000 times (reported by Google Scholar), and her influential article on training transfer has ranked among the top five “most cited” papers in the Human Resource Development Review since 2008. Her record in obtaining funding from the industry and federal agencies is impressive and commendable Dr. Hutchins is co-Principal Investigator (co-PI) on the $3.3 million National Science Foundation Institutional Transformation ADVANCE grant, to increase the number of women faculty in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics fields. She has served as co-PI on the Undergraduate Quality Enhancement Grant, “Developing HRD Competencies through Service Learning – An Instructional Design Project with the Girl Scouts of San Jacinto County.” She is visibly involved in doctoral and master thesis committees and serves in the Academy of Human Resource Development as vice president of professional development.
ACCOLADES & HONORS
Dr. Lingguang Song, Associate Professor of Construction DR. LINGGUANG SONG Management, received the award for Faculty Teaching Excellence, tenure-track. This award recognizes that exceptional teaching contributes to the success of the College of Technology, the University, and the community. Demonstrating his deep commitment, Dr. Lingguang Song has developed and taught eleven different courses in the broad area of construction engineering and management, such as concrete design, scheduling, estimating, contracting, and computer applications. He has served as the graduate program coordinator for the construction management master’s degree program since 2006, recruiting new students and advising more than 60 students each semester on their study and career development.
awards and publications in academic conferences organized by American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) and Associated School of Construction (ASC). Dr. Song’s spirit of innovation and research excellence inspired graduate student, Arash Fallahi, to develop a 3-D virtual training environment for construction operations with complex technical, spatial, timeconstraints, and logistics. The research was presented at the 2015 ASCE International Workshop on Computing in Civil Engineering in Austin, Texas, June 21-23.
He was also instrumental in developing faculty internship programs with Baker Concrete and Fluor Corporation, which have brought valuable insight into trending industry practices. Further innovation in teaching has been demonstrated through his introduction of several interactive games and virtual learning applications to promote student involvement and active learning. Proof of Dr. Song’s effectiveness rests in the consistently favorable feedback and high ratings of his presentations, organization, effectiveness, and overall quality. Motivated students have produced award-winning projects and academic publications, including best and outstanding poster
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ACCOLADES & HONORS
heavy tutorial and hands-on experience. Teamwork and collaboration among the students on deadline-driven projects prepares them for the realities of the job market.
PROFESSOR PHIL SNYDER Professor Phil Snyder, Instructional Assistant Professor in the Digital Media Program, received the Teaching Excellence award, non-tenure track. Since his arrival in January 2013, Professor Snyder has consistently demonstrated excellence in his teaching work, bringing a new dimension to the program as an experienced video producer, voice-over talent for animation and advertising, and Hollywood performing artist – all complementing his years of teaching experience at The California State University. Snyder also brings the uniqueness of being the voice of Disney’s iconic character, Jiminy Cricket and all of the incredible entertainment experience associated with that distinction. During his brief tenure at UH, Professor Snyder has created three new courses – 2D Animation, Transmedia, and 3D Modeling and Animation. Additionally, he teaches other highly rated courses ranging from visual communications to digital photography and video production. Demonstrating his philosophical approach of teaching holistically or teaching the “whole student,” he integrates practical knowledge into laboratory sessions, drawing from his many years of industry experience. Students quickly grasp the importance of being innovators as Snyder encourages personal creativity by bringing the “real-world” into the labs, emphasizing
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Getting his students ready for the competitive work force, Professor Snyder conceived the “Red VidFest,” a digital video and animation festival competition where the UH digital media program industry advisory board members serve as judges.
ACCOLADES & HONORS
As recipient of the award for Service Excellence, Dr. Jerry Evans, DR. JERRY EVANS Instructional Associate Professor, has a long and distinguished record providing service to the Information and Logistics Technology Department, College of Technology, University of Houston and our community. As a service to the College of Technology, Dr. Evans took over the reins as interim chair of the ILT Department in 2007, until January 2014, when he returned to full-time teaching. Reputed as an action-oriented, inspiring and passionate leader, Dr. Evans seizes opportunities to contribute to the benefit of society. He was the driving force behind the formation of the University of Houston Cougars for Kids volunteer program, which launched in 2007. This University-wide program promotes volunteering opportunities for students, staff, and faculty members. Hundreds have been inspired to commit to volunteerism that provides benefits to children at Texas Children’s Hospital, Shriner’s Hospital, The Methodist Hospital, Memorial Hermann Children’s Hospital, M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, and Healthbridge Children’s Hospital.
life lessons to UH students, staff, and faculty by involving them in the care for children who are dealing with serious health issues. With about 150 active student volunteers, the Cougars for Kids program has evolved into mentoring elementary students throughout the City of Houston. Evans is an active supporter of student athletes, serving as a mentor with the UH Cougar Student Athlete Mentoring program and a member of the UH Athletic Advisory Committee. He chairs a sub-committee on UH Academics that is identifying opportunities for UH Faculty involvement in enhancing the academic success of athletes in all sports. Dr. Evans represents the College and University as a member of the Texas Medical Center Volunteer Service Advisory Council, and served on the American Diabetes Association’s Houston Steering Committee for several years.
Leading by example, Dr. Evans personally volunteers in Cougars for Kids, addressing myriad administrative details of engaging hospitals and encouraging support of the program. The hospitals have provided valuable
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The College of Technology hosts a biannual career fair for students interested in internships, part-time, and full-time employment. This event is open to current majors and alumni.
Wednesday, September 23, 2015 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. University of Houston Main Campus University Center - Houston Room Interested employers and recruiters can register for the career fair online at TechConnect: tech-uh-csm.symplicity.com
Job seekers should use the career management system, TechConnect, to preview companies and post rĂŠsumĂŠs.
713.743.4100
www.uh.edu/technology The University of Houston is an EEO/AA institution.
ACCOLADES & HONORS
Veteran Advisor Recognized for Staff Excellence
Senior Academic Advisor and community liaison officer, Carlo Deason received the 2015 College of Technology Staff Excellence award. Deason was CARL “CARLO” DEASON honored during the College of Technology graduate convocation reception on May 14.
Carlo has been dedicated to international initiatives, including serving as a coordinator of the Aarhus School of Marine Science and Technical Engineering student exchange program. His work with international students and with Aarhus was the impetus for his induction into the Phi Delta Beta International Honor Society in 2014. As the students’ voice, Carlo helps the administration understand each student’s needs to ensure their academic, cultural, and social success.
In addition to assisting with the coordination of the academic advising activities, Deason is responsible for advising University of Houston Honors students, and student athletes. As a highly decorated competitive distance runner, Carlo mentors the UH Men’s Track and Field and Cross Country Teams. He is also committed to furthering the University’s mission of diversity and inclusiveness in student success through the Cougar ALLY program, the UH LGBT Visibility Project, and the 2014 National Collegiate Athletics Association Inclusion Forum.
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ACCOLADES & HONORS
Banner bearers from left: Andrew Cordova, Sami Elestwani, Ariana Ibarra, Sarwat Osmani, Vi Hua, Karolyn Barber
Celebrating Our Graduates Faculty, staff, family, and friends gathered on the morning of Thursday, May 14 to celebrate with graduating College of Technology students on their day of Convocation.
excellent work as a researcher and teaching assistant. Hassanin is working toward his master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering Technology.
Award-winning students were recognized during the program, including the Dean’s Medal recipients, the honorary College of Technology Outstanding Student, Outstanding Graduate Student, Engineering Technology Outstanding Student, and six graduation ceremony Banner Bearers.
Karolyn Barber and Sarwat Osmani, won the Dean’s Medal of Academic Excellence, an honor that is awarded to the College’s highest-ranking student, graduating with a grade point average of 3.75 or above with the final 66 hours in residence at the University of Houston. A $1000 award accompanies the medal.
The Banner Bearers represented the entire College, Graduate Studies, and the four departments during commencement ceremony.
Honorary College of Technology Honorary Banner Bearer, Karolyn Barber, earned her B.S. in Organizational Leadership and Supervision in the Department of Information and Logistics Technology and a minor in Business Foundations from the UH Bauer College of Business. Sarwat Osmani earned her B.S. in Biotechnology and a minor in Biomanufacturing and Bioprocessing.
Graduate Studies Banner Bearer, Sami Elestwani, earned his Master of Science degree in Global Retailing. Graduate student, Ahmed Hassanin, was honored for his
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ACCOLADES & HONORS
Named College of Technology Outstanding Undergraduate Student, Kadi Kullerkann received her B.S. in Digital Media. This award provides an opportunity to celebrate remarkable academic achievements, considerable research activity, and a strong awareness of social and cultural concerns marked by involvement in organized community service programs or activities. The winning student must have completed a minimum of 54 hours in residence at the University of Houston. A $1000 award accompanied this honor.
Banner Bearers for each of the other departments included Andrew Cordova, B.S., Construction Management, Department of Construction Management; Vi Hua, B.S., Retailing and Consumer Science, Department of Human Development and Consumer Sciences; Ariana Ibarra B.S., Supply Chain and Logistics Technology, Department of Information and Logistics Technology; and Sarwat Osmani, B.S., Biotechnology, Department of Engineering Technology.
In recognition of exemplary performance of an Engineering Technology student, Jesse McDade, who earned his B.S. in Electrical Power Engineering Technology was named the Outstanding Undergraduate Student in the Department of Engineering Technology. A $500 prize accompanied the award.
Dean Fitzgibbon with Kadi Kullerkann
Dean Fitzgibbon with Jesse McDade and Dr. Wajiha Shireen
Dean Fitzgibbon and Ahmed Hassanin
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ACCOLADES & HONORS
ACCOLADES & HONORS
CELEBRATING OUR SPRING 2015 GRADUATES Join us on Facebook and view more images: Facebook.com/uhcot
Twitter: twitter.com/UHCOT
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Join us to Salute the Visionaries of the Retailing Industry November 17, 2015 11:00 a.m. River Oaks Country Club 1600 River Oaks Blvd. Houston TX 77019-1299 Contact: Vernon King, Director of Development, veking@uh.edu, 713-743-4886
ADVANCEMENT
Innovation is Always in Style Victor Costa Scholarship Fund Established Innovation is one of the hallmarks of the University of Houston and is always in style, especially in the College of Technology. Named after the legendary fashion designer, the Victor Costa Scholarship is the brainchild of his wife, Jerry Ann Woodfin Costa, who shared that she wanted the world to know more about him and his contributions to the fashion and merchandising industry while encouraging people to study fashion design. “I hope that the scholarship will get more people interested in what the University of Houston offers to its students,” she said. When fully endowed, the Victor Costa Endowment Scholarship fund will provide approximately $1,000 annually for a student who exhibits a creative flair and talent, while maintaining the academic standards set forth by the scholarship committee. From concept and design through materials selection, production, and manufacturing of garments, the fundamentals of the fashion industry are rooted deeply in applied technology. As an alumnus of UH, it is not surprising that Victor Costa (’58) is an inspiration to students in the retailing and consumer science program, which has a strong tie to the fashion industry. Growing up in the City of Houston, in the era of collectible “paper dolls,” Victor Costa expressed an interest in fashion and design, drawing sketches of dresses worn by Hollywood stars. His childhood pastime of sketching dresses and making the paper versions made way to a long and successful career as a premiere fashion designer. Costa left
home to study design at the Pratt Institute in New York City during his senior year at UH and continued his studies in Paris, at the famous Ecole de la Chambre Syndicale de la Couture Parisienne. He credits the support and encouragement of UH professor, Dr. Edwin B. Roberts. After graduating, he left for New York and became a designer for a bridal manufacturer. Costa worked with the Suzy Perette line of dresses, often traveling to Paris as he learned to mirror the finest collections of haute couture designers. He successfully launched the Victor Costa Company in Dallas, Texas in the early 1970s and became well known in fashion circles. His designs have been featured by retailers around the world, and modeled by numerous celebrities. Costa became an admired icon in the fashion industry, an expert in imitating the work of some of world’s greatest designers. The publisher of the fashion industry’s voice, Woman’s Wear Daily (WWD), John Fairchild, referred to Victor Costa as the “maestro copier,” in his book, Chic Savages. Through the generosity of legendary fashion designer Victor Costa and Jerry Ann Woodfin-Costa, innovation always will be in style. The Victor Costa Endowment Scholarship fund, propels UH to the forefront of innovation, with creative, smart, driven, and innovative students sought after by industry. Contact Vernon King, Director of Advancement, at veking@central.uh.edu, 713-743-4886, for more information and to make a gift to the endowment.
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University of Houston College of Technology 4730 Calhoun Road Room 300 Houston, TX 77204 -4021 www.uh.edu/technology
A digital version of this publication is available at www.uh.edu/technology/college/marketing/innovations-e-newsletter/
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