the transit ISSN 0041-1167 Chapter Reports
Photo: Courtesy of UT Arlington
Engineering Research Building University of Texas at Arlington
www.chi-epsilon.org of Chi Epsilon National Civil Engineering Honor Society Fall 2009 • Volume 81 • Number 2 FALL 2009 1 THE TRANSIT CHAPTER ARTICLES FALL 2009 Chapter articles are published only on-line at this web site www.chi-epsilon.org . Odd numbered chapters, 1,3,5, etc., provide their articles by December 15th of each year to appear in the spring. Even numbered chapters, 2,4,6, etc., provide their articles by May 15th of each year, and they appear on-line in the fall. Please enjoy reading the articles from your chapter and others to find out what is happening locally in Chi Epsilon.
* Page numbers refer to Chi Epsilon Website
CHAPTER PAGE CHAPTER PAGE University of Alabama 3 Michigan State 24 University of Alaska, Fairbanks 3 University of Mississippi 25 Arizona State University 4 University of Missouri 26 Bucknell University 6 Montana State University 27 University of California, Davis 9 New Jersey Institute of Technology 27 University of California, Irvine 9 New Mexico State University 28 University of California at Los Angeles 10 Northeastern University 31 Carnegie Mellon University 11 University of Notre Dame 32 University of Cincinnati 11 Pennsylvania State University 34 Clarkson University 13 Rice University 35 University of Colorado 13 Rugers University 36 The Cooper Union 14 San Diego State University 36 University of Dayton 14 University of South Carolina 37 Drexel University 15 University of Southern California 38 University of Evansville 16 Southern Methodist University 38 Florida Institute of Technology 16 Tennessee Technological University 39 Georgia Institute of Technology 17 Texas A&M University 39 University of Iowa 17 University of Toledo 40 University of Kentucky 18 Trine University 41 Lamar University 18 University of Utah 42 University of Louisville 19 Villanova University 43 Marquette University 20 Virginia Polytechnic Institute 43 University of Maryland 20 University of Virginia 44 University of Massachusetts, Washington University, St. Louis 45 Amherst 21 Wayne State University 46 University of Massachusetts, West Virginia University 48 Lowell 22 University of Wisconsin, Madison 49 University of Miami 22
THE TRANSIT 2 FALL 2009 Chapter Articles Fall 2009 .
University of Alabama
The initiation ceremony for new chapter members took place on April 7, 2009. On that date, we also elevated Dr. Daniel Turner to Chapter Honor Member status. In April, our chapter hosted the entire National Council so that we could update them on our progress for planning the 2010 National Conclave. Also in April, our chapter organized and hosted the “2009 Honors and Awards Banquet” for the Civil Engineering Department here at UA. At the dinner, we honored University of Alabama civil engineering alumni and gave awards to current students. Outgoing officers: Drew Waldrop, president; Jessica Taylor, vice-president; Trey Blizzard, treasurer/secretary; and Holly Eriksen, marshal/associate editor. New officers: Wesley Sudduth, president; Taylor Schoel , vice-president; Brian Thach, treasurer/secretary; and Kenneth Anderson, marshal/associate editor.
University of Alaska, Fairbanks
The University of Alaska, Fairbanks chapter of Chi Epsilon had a decent 2008-2009 school year. In February 2008 and 2009, the chapter participated in the College of Engineering’s annual engineering week open house, where local high school students tour and explore the various engineering departments and their many exhibits. The chapter also teamed up with the local Tau Beta Pi chapter to hold tutoring sessions for all math, science, and engineering students. Throughout the spring2008 semester, a few Chi Epsilon members participated in designing and building a steel bridge for the Pacific Northwest Regional Steel Bridge Competition, which was held at Portland State University. Over the last few semesters, the chapter has been participating in the new student orientation as orientations leaders for the incoming students. The current officers for the 2009-2010 school year are: Chad Odem, president; Thomas Tyler Dyer, vice-president; Larry Mosley, treasurer; Jake Horazdovsky, secretary; David Aaron Morse, associate editor; and Trevor Thomas Hyatt, marshal. Dr. Yuri Shur continues to serve as the chapter’s faculty advisor.
FALL 2009 3 THE TRANSIT Arizona State University
On May 1, 2009, our chapter initiated 21 new members: Mohd Alyousuf, Timothy Cason, Nathan Coolman, Nathan Dunkin, Lesley Ann Eastlick, Laila El-Ashmawy, Cherith Etsitty, Preston Ford, Skye Gentile, Nick Haws, Canio Hoffarth, Terrin Lane, Kevin Lardner, Errolin Maynes, Adam Rumpf, Alma Brenden Saline, Kyle Sargent, Andrew Schmidt, Elizabeth Weil, Brian Yeary, and Nathan Zigler. During the ceremony we also installed new officers: Cherylyn Henry, president; Taylor Ehrick, vice-president; Rebecca Janney, secretary; Chuan Jiang, treasurer; Jesse Cascio, marshal; and Carmen Parks, associate editor. Cherylyn, Taylor, and Rebecca are all returning officers, which should help to make this coming year even more successful than the last. Special thanks to our faculty advisor and Chi Epsilon alumnus Dr. Chris Lawrence, and our outgoing officers that will not be returning: Rebecca Hackel, president; Hanna Look, vice- president; Tina Pourshams, treasurer. The 2008-2009 school year consisted of community and campus involvement for ASU Chi Epsilon. The remainder of this report briefly describes the activities that our chapter is proud to be a part of. For the past four years, our chapter has dedicated part of its community service time to volunteering for the Arizona Ironman, which takes place in Tempe, AZ, and consists of a 2.4 mile swim, 112 mile bike ride, and 26.2 mile marathon run. Many people who compete in the Ironman do the majority of their fundraising to support various charities and non-profit organizations. ASU Chi Epsilon volunteers guide and encourage the competitors along the bike portion of the course by distributing drinks and cheering them on. Robert Saunders, a past president of ASU Chi Epsilon, organizes two large groups of volunteers for this event each semester. For the past few years, our chapter has participated in the Habitat for Humanity community service project, however this past spring, we opted to participate in Devils in Disguise instead. Devils in Disguise is a day where different organizations at ASU get together and participate in various community service events. Our chapter went to Tempe Christian School to help them with maintenance of their playground. The afternoon was spent clearing weeds and removing an old swing set. One of ASU Chi Epsilon’s biggest events each fall and spring is a series of review sessions for the FE exam. We encourage professors to volunteer to review topics that will be covered on the test. This is a large fundraiser for us because we get undergraduates and professionals to come to our sessions where we charge a reasonable fee. Our review sessions are free to active Chi Epsilon members, and we always get a great turnout for this event. They usually start four weeks prior to the exam with about 2 sessions per week. We get great feedback and continue to improve the review sessions year after year.
THE TRANSIT 4 FALL 2009 The 2008-2009 academic year was a successful one. We achieved our goals of continuing our chapter’s involvement in community service activities and developing our relationship with ASCE. We had several socials over the course of the year which included kickball games, happy hour, and several BBQ’s. The socials turned out well, with significant attendance from both Chi Epsilon and ASCE. As a result of the success of these events, a positive and friendly relationship is forming between Chi Epsilon and ASCE, one that we hope to continue building in the coming year. This was also the first year that our chapter has had t-shirts made. The shirts were a huge hit, with nearly all that we ordered being bought. Making shirts is definitely something that we plan to do again in the fall. With this past year at an end and the coming year standing in front of us, we are excited for the continuing growth and success of our chapter.
Arizona State University Members
Bucknell University
Community Service Event: This spring, as an opportunity to give back to the Lewisburg community, our chapter hosted an event enabling boy scouts to obtain their engineering merit badge.The event was held on Bucknell’s campus, within the engineering building. The program allowed for a lot of interaction between our chapter members and a local Boy Scout troop. This experience was quite a success and presented a learning experience for all parties involved.
FALL 2009 5 THE TRANSIT Upon arrival, the boy scouts were separated into two groups. Several of the scouts had participated in this event last year where they built bridges out of popsicle sticks and hot glue. Those who were new to this event were placed in the bridge- building group, while those who attended last year enjoyed a new challenge involving building catapults. Chapter member Dale Statler led informal presentations to each group. The lecture for the bridge group involved the basics of bridge design, and the scouts thoroughly enjoyed learning about the concepts. The scouts then broke up into pairs, with at least one member of Chi Epsilon assigned to each pair of boy scouts. Each group drew out the design of the bridge they would like to construct. The Chi Epsilon members were instructed to allow the boy scouts to make the important decisions and only to interject with guidance in order to allow the scouts to think independently. Following their designs the scouts began the construction phase. The bridges were constructed from popsicle sticks and glue, with no limit to the amount of materials used. The judging of the bridges focused on the amount of load sustained with respect to the weight of the bridge, so efficiency was critical to the design. The variety in the designs and the creativity shown by the boy scouts was rewarding to see, and the vigor with which they approached these engineering problems was inspirational. When the construction phase of the bridges was completed, each bridge was tested by loading it until failure. Although winning was never intended to be an objective of this event, the competitive nature of the boys won out and it became a competition. Several pictures of the event are provided below. The catapult group followed a similar procedure, with the initial presentation involving catapults. The scouts paired up and designed their catapults with the support of Chi Epsilon members. These catapults were constructed from milk cartons. Upon completion, the boy scouts participated in friendly competitions involving accuracy and distance. The competitive nature of the boys won out yet again, and they were very eager to learn and create the best catapult possible. Initiation: On Thursday, January 22, 2009, our chapter initiated seven new members into Chi Epsilon. It was also a special occasion as Dr. Jai B. Kim was elevated to a position of Chapter Honor Member. The initiation was well attended by the faculty and turned out to be an enjoyable experience for all involved. Upon completion of Boy Scouts and members of the actual initiation ceremony, all current members, Bucknell University Chi Epsilon watching as a bridge collapses to faculty, new members, and Dr. Kim were invited the floor under excessive loading. to attend a dinner in one of Bucknell University’s
THE TRANSIT 6 FALL 2009 Boy Scouts watching carefully as bridge is being loaded at Bucknell University. dining facilities. The dinner provided an opportunity for the younger members to meet the current members as well as creating a comfortable setting for the students to converse with the faculty. Chapter Honor Member Dr. Kim also had the opportunity that evening to meet many of the students. Immediately following dinner, the senior members of Chi Epsilon invited Dr. Kim to speak to the senior civil and environmental engineering class, which he accepted. Dr. Kim spoke on the collapse of the Interstate 35 West bridge that occurred in Minneapolis, Minnesota on August 1, 2007. He highlighted the main causes of the collapse as well as the importance of connection design. Dr. Kim also spoke about his patented curved truss design for the rehabilitation of old truss bridges. The method utilized arches and post-tensioning rods to increase the strength of a deteriorated bridge.
FALL 2009 7 THE TRANSIT Bucknell Chapter Honor Member, Dr. Jai B. Kim
The elevation of Dr. Kim comes after nearly a half century of work in the area of civil engineering. Also, Dr. Kim has decided to retire as a professor after teaching his final class this past fall semester. His many accomplishments are nothing short of extraordinary, and he is well known for his specialty in structural engineering with an emphasis in design loads for buildings and highway bridges. Dr. Kim began his remarkable career after obtaining both his BS and MS in civil engineering at Oregon State University. From here, he acquired his PhD at the University of Maryland. He then became the chief research engineer for the District of Columbia Government Department of Highways and Traffic from 1964 to 1966. It was in 1966 that Dr. Kim found his way to Bucknell University as an assistant professor. After a decade of work as both an assistant and associate professor, Dr. Kim was made the chairman of the Civil Engineering Department. He held this position for an astounding twenty-six years. During his time at Bucknell University, Dr. Kim has received numerous awards and issued many publications on a variety of civil engineering topics as well as held positions in many professional societies. He also conducted the first, full-scale lateral load test on a group of piles. In addition to his ongoing research, Dr. Kim and one of his former students, Jon Yadlosky, hold a patent on the “Rehabilitation of Steel Truss Bridges by Means of Reinforcing Arches.” He is currently in the process of revising his two books, Timber Design and Bridge Design. Dr. Kim’s accomplishments far exceed any publications or physical evidence that can be presented in his name. He is a man of ingenious creativity as well as unequaled wit and intelligence. His gifts to the civil engineering industry and society will be impossible to duplicate. Bucknell University will certainly miss the presence of Dr. Kim on its campus.
THE TRANSIT 8 FALL 2009 University of California, Davis
The University of California, Davis chapter started off the 2008-2009 year by attending the 22nd annual Pacific District Conference. Only two members were able to attend from the UC Davis chapter. Following the conference, the UC Davis chapter gained 13 members. Among these were Dimitrios Lignos, Elizabeth Flores, Jason Fuller, Jason Hui, Jia Le Liu, Justin Anderson, Kenneth Johnson, Michelle Biery, Paul Warnock, Robert-Paul Erickson, Rudy Nie, and Thang Mai. We were pleased to welcome a new cabinet, half of which were new initiates and include: Michelle Fong, president; Elizabeth Flores, vice-president; Rudy Nie, secretary; Paul Warnock, treasurer; Jason Fuller, associate editor; and Jason Hui, marshal. The UC Davis chapter of Chi Epsilon has been working towards building our strength as a chapter by hosting several social events. In order to grow academically, this year we had two professors, Professors Frank Loge and Jay Lund give guest presentations about their current research projects. We also took a trip to the nearby Monticello Dam to learn about the water system run by the Solano Irrigation District. The UC Davis chapter of Chi Epsilon looks forward to recruiting more initates this fall and increasing its presence on the UC Davis campus.
University of California, Irvine
The University of California Irvine chapter of Chi Epsilon was proud to announce its newest addition of 27 members during the spring quarter of 2009. These new members were: Asad Akmal, Lawrence Andres, Joel Belanger, Chris Chan, Bryant Chan, Catherine Chen, Jia Chen, Chantry Davis, Harinder Dhillon, Jared Dibartolomeo, Francisco Guereca, Paul Harer, Rezwan Kabir, Garrett Kawayoshi, Candy Kwan, Richard Kyo, Erika Martinelli, Justin Menda, Michael Nguyen, Avsean Pirbazari, Daniel Real, Daren Reyes, Andrew Sidor, Benjamin Wong, Craig Wong, Steven Yasutake, and Kevin Yu. The new officers selected to take over for the 2009-2010 academic year were: Benjamin Wong, president; Chantry Davis, vice-president; Bryant Chan, treasurer; Catherine Chen, secretary; Chris Chan, associate editor; and Daren Reyes, marshal. Due to the significant addition of members to the Chi Epsilon roster, some additional responsibilities were delegated to extra officer positions. Chi Epsilon has enlisted Asad Akmal as corporate affairs officer to establish connections with the affiliates and to raise funds. Michael Nguyen has been appointed as the webmaster in order to create a website for the UC Irvine chapter of Chi Epsilon. Chi Epsilon members and incoming initiates will be able to check this site for frequent updates and upcoming events. Sabeen Cochinwala was chosen as the alumni advisor who will work with Chi Epsilon to provide guidance and ensure a successful year.
FALL 2009 9 THE TRANSIT During the spring quarter of 2009, Chi Epsilon participated in a variety of events. A few of them were collaborative efforts with Tau Beta Pi, the Engineering Honors Society. These events included volunteering efforts for UCI’s UROP (Undergraduate Research Opportunities Program) Symposium, a beach bonfire, and a movie event. Also, the UC Irvine chapter of Chi Epsilon held a resume workshop in order to assist students in creating the perfect resume. The end of the year was wrapped up with a Chi Epsilon initiation ceremony and a park barbeque.
University of California, Los Angeles
The Chi Epsilon chapter at UCLA enjoyed a productive and rewarding year. The first major event was the annual Pacific District conference, hosted by USC. Representatives from twelve universities, including: Thomas Curtis, president; Nicole Galloway, vice-president; Priscilla Chui, treasurer; Liz Conklin, secretary; Brian Wada, associate editor; and Hila Shprecher, marshal, attended a variety of workshops, seminars, discussions, and presentations. The UCLA delegation presented a report focused on the Chi Epsilon initiate requirements as well as a poster showcasing Chi Epsilon’s activities at UCLA. UCLA’s spirited presentation of initiate requirements earned Most Enthusiastic Presentation. Additionally, the collaboration and planning between other chapters laid a foundation for the future. The fall quarter continued with a signature party, a UCLA Chi Epsilon tradition allowing candidate members to meet current members, officers, alumni, and faculty advisor, Professor Steve Margulis. Our program for prospective initiates encourages cross-membership in UCLA’s ASCE chapter, particularly by offering community service hours for working on student projects and volunteering at ASCE Younger Member Forum events. One event that Chi Epsilon collaborated on with ASCE was the popsicle bridge contest, which featured thirty-seven area high schools competing on a number of design criteria. Later in the quarter, we continued a new ceremony that celebrates our school and the achievements of the candidates. Initiation day soon followed, where we proudly welcomed new members into our organization. We would like to thank professors Steve Margulis and Terri Hogue for lending their support and attending this rite. In the weeks following initiation, a new faculty advisor was installed: Associate Professor Scott Brandenburg, a geotechnical engineering professor who earned his BS at California Polytechinic State University, San Luis Obispo and continued earning his Masters and PhD at University of California, Berkeley. Additionally, a new officer board was installed, with Eric Chin serving as president. Eric also serves as internal vice-president of UCLA’s chapter of the ASCE. The chapter continued to offer FE examination preparation this spring, assisting over twenty five members of the UCLA community. XE alumnus and PE Patrick Ho, helped run multiple sessions, explaining the intricacies of the exam, conducting subject reviews and teaching test taking strategies. Of the students that participated in the review sessions, all passed the FE. We thank Pat for his continued service and commitment to the UCLA community and XE. For more about Chi Epsilon, its activities and contact information, please visit our website at http://www.ascebruins.com/XE/.
THE TRANSIT 10 FALL 2009 Carnegie Mellon University
In the fall of 2008, the Carnegie Mellon University chapter of Chi Epsilon initiated eight new members including one faculty member. The new initiates were: Faculty – H. Scott Matthews, Students – Timothy Baumgarten, Adam Larsen, Anna Lenhart, Jeffrey Miller, Sabrina Porter, Andrew Zagoren, and Edward Yuen. In the spring of 2009, the Carnegie Mellon Chapter initiated five more members: Students - Mario Berges, Fernanda Leite, Juan Peng, Pingbo Tang and Zhiqang Li. The chapter’s activities last spring included giving tours and personal insights to prospective first-year students on admitted student days, as well as representing our classes at the monthly departmental town meetings. The chapter’s plans for fall 2009 include the creation of a tutoring program for the sophomore statics class in the Civil and Environmental Engineering Department in addition to initiating review sessions for the upcoming FE exam.
University of Cincinnati
The University of Cincinnati chapter of Chi Epsilon has had a busy and successful year. We began the year with Laura Busick, president; Joseph Seymour, vice-president; Breana Roth, secretary; Joshua Trauger, marshal; Andrew Hammer, treasurer; and Jocelyn DeMange, associate editor. Our chapter soon expanded as we initiated 13 new members during our fall quarter initiation. It was not long before fall quarter had passed and it was time for the district conference . The district conference was held here, at the university, and had a great turnout with over 35 representatives from 11 chapters including the Great Lakes District Councillor, Prof. Eugene Glysson. The conference included a visit to the unique construction site of the new School for Creative and Performing Arts, a discussion of chapter issues and exchanged community service and recruiting ideas. Jim Kleingers from Kleingers & Associates also came to speak about his impact in civil engineering and offered some inspiring words to the group. Overall, the conference
FALL 2009 11 THE TRANSIT University of Cincinnati Great Lakes District Conference was a great success and everyone walked away with something to take back to their individual chapters. This spring, the chapter is getting involved with the community by working with the local Habitat for Humanity and will soon be electing officers for the 2009/ 2010 academic year. This year has been busy for the University of Cincinnati chapter and even more rewarding. In the next year, the chapter hopes to continue increasing student involvement and community engagement and looks forward to the National Conclave.
University of Cincinnati Chi Epsilon Officers and Initiates
THE TRANSIT 12 FALL 2009 Clarkson University
The 2008-2009 school year at Clarkson University has seen many changes involving Chi Epsilon, starting with the initiation of new XE members. On Saturday, February 21, 2009, eight new members were initiated into the Clarkson University chapter of Chi Epsilon with a catered dinner to follow. Their names are as follows: Matthew P. Cheevers, Alex A. Garneau, Daniel J. Harvey, Benjamin R. Lind, Geoffrey J. May, Dylan J. Morphet, Brandon M. Sparacino, and Samantha A. Wyant. Congratulations to these new members! As part of our initiation process and our efforts to improve Clarkson University, our members volunteered at the spring 2009 career fair. This event was hosted by Clarkson’s Career Center on Thursday, January 29, 2009. Our involvement sped-up assembly and disassembly of the tables, chairs, and displays from different companies as well as smoothed the transition between sessions. Also, XE had its Colors Week from Monday, February 16, to Friday, February 20, 2009, concluding our initiation process. Elections of new officers were held on Thursday, March 5, 2009. Officer positions were filled as follows: Dylan J. Morphet, president, replacing Stefan J. Widomski; Daniel J. Harvey, vice-president, replacing Ethan C. Lamiman; Matthew P. Cheevers, secretary, replacing Matthew D. LaPlante; Geoffrey J. May, treasurer, replacing Kevin R. Martens; and Alex A. Garneau, marshal and associate editor, replacing Alexander J. Brown. Good luck to the old officers as they enter their professional fields. Finally, our XE chapter ended the school year and said farewell to the XE seniors with a barbecue on Saturday, April 25, 2009. Projects for next year include repainting the XE benches around campus and revitalizing the XE showcase in the library.
University of Colorado
The Chi Epsilon chapter at the University of Colorado is going through a transition period and is very excited for the future. Initiation took place this semester on October 14, during which 11 new members were initiated. Coming into the fall 2009 semester, Ryan Anderson was filling all officer positions, so soon after initiation, new officers were elected. The positions are held currently by the following people: Alexa Schaefer as president, Benjamin Wertz as vice-president, Christopher Lynch as secretary as well as treasurer, and Christine Beckman as associate editor and marshal. With the new board and the help of our faculty advisor, Richard Regueiro, we plan to try to boost the chapter and become more involved. This year, our chapter planned and organized, with the help of a few professors, several FE exam review sessions to assist the seniors planning to take the test. As usual, these sessions were a great help to the attendees and we plan to continue organizing the review sessions. Other future functions possibly include socials, community service projects, and helping the department plan the senior banquet in the spring.
FALL 2009 13 THE TRANSIT The Cooper Union
In conjunction with Tau Beta Pi, Chi Epsilon took part in student tutoring services. Tutoring help was offered to students of all years and majors. This year’s initiation ceremony, May 11, 2009, celebrated the 60th anniversary of the Cooper Union’s Chi Epsilon chapter in conjunction with the initiation of new members. Accordingly, alumni were invited back to observe the initiation ceremony, in which ten new members were inducted. In attendance were Professor Anne Ronan, Athena C. DeNivo, Richard Rand, Ketan Dodhia, Alan Marder, Joseph Horowitz, J. Schulman, and Muhammad Rahal. Graduating officers are pursuing various interests after Cooper Union’s 150th commencement. President Neal Simon Kwong will attend the University of California at Berkley as part of a Master’s program, Vice-President Michael David will attend the Massachusetts Institute of Technology as part of a Master’s program, Secretary Matthew Waxman will continue his education at the Cooper Union as part of a Master’s program;Treasurer Cecilia Ye has taken a position with Skanska; and Marshal Fadi Castronovo will attend the Danish Technological Institute. Succeeding these officers are Jennifer Tsang, president; Christopher Janover, vice-president; Avi Englard, secretary; Jessica Galbo, treasurer; and Michael Pimentel, marshal.
University of Dayton
The University of Dayton chapter of Chi Epsilon inducted five new members during the fall semester of 2008. The new members were initiated in January of 2009 and include: Joseph Bayer, Michael Hudepohl, Clayton Pennington, Tom Schoen, and Benjamin Simcik. The following inducted and current members took office for the 2009-2010 year: Joseph Bayer, president; Michael Hudepohl, vice- president; Tom Schoen, secretary; Clayton Pennington, treasurer; and Benjamin Simcik, associate editor and marshal. Outgoing officers from the 2008-2009 year include: Kyle Fortman, president; Kendre DiPietro, vice-president; Hayley Ryckman, secretary; David Hayson, treasurer; Marissa Dolle, associate editor; and Rich Adams, marshal. The faculty advisor is Dr. Donald Chase. The University of Dayton chapter is extremely proud of its involvement in service and social activities. Some service activities include assisting the American Society of Civil Engineers group in staffing their booth at the educational Tech Fest in downtown Dayton. Chi Epsilon members also helped the ASCE student chapter with a trebuchet at a carnival to benefit cystic fibrosis research. In addition, members were involved in making the OVSC competition a success once again. Chi Epsilon
THE TRANSIT 14 FALL 2009 University of Dayton Chi Epsilon members assist in moving the canoe into the water. members were involved in almost every competition. Kyle Fortman led the concrete frisbee team and Marissa Dolle placed in the ethics paper competition. On the concrete canoe front, Kendre DiPietro, Kyle Fortman, and Benjamin Simcik participated on the most successful team in recent years. Drexel University
During the 2008-2009 academic year, the Drexel University chapter of Chi Epsilon held FE review sessions, toured construction sites in Philadelphia, and grew in membership. The FE review sessions were incredibly successful. Each session was taught by a professor, graduate student, or undergraduate student who has passed the FE and a total of 25 students attended the classes. Responses were extremely positive and the pass rate of Drexel students is expected to rise. On April 13, 2009, seven new members were inducted into the organization and the group’s graduating officers were replaced. The new officers are: Jillian Gerraputa, president; Liam Hendricken, vice-president; Keith Hodges, secretary/ treasurer; Aaron Moyer, associate editor; and Leah Courtney, marshal.
New Officers for 2009-2010 New Members for 2009-2010
FALL 2009 15 THE TRANSIT University of Evansville
This year at the University of Evansville, the big headline was the school’s victory at the ASCE Great Lakes Regional Conference. While this was one of the largest accomplishments of the year for UE’s Civil Engineering Department, something smaller, more hidden and yet equally as distinctive, took place on April 29, 2009. With a fairly small department and a limited number of students, it was an honor and a privilege to be asked to join a national honor society. Four juniors, Matt Chenault, Nicholas Stafford, RK Seitzinger, and Stev Pierre, were quietly led into a dark room in UE’s library to be initiated into Chi Epsilon. Once they were called in and asked to sit before the chapter officers, the ceremony began. Each new member was asked to uphold certain responsibilities and agreed respectfully. By the end of the ceremony, the new officers sat facing their old mentors and peers thanking them for the opportunity to be a part of the National Civil Engineering Honor Society. The old officers, Kyle Shatto, president; Wendy Stiller, vice-president and associate editor; Craig Miller, treasurer; and Cody Buckley, secretary and marshal had passed their positions on to the new junior members. Matt Chenault was named the new president, Nicholas Stafford was named the new vice-president and associate editor, RK Seitzinger was named the new treasurer, and Stev Pierre was named the new secretary and marshal. Shortly after the initiation had ended, the group, complete with its new members and Faculty Advisor Dr. Mark Valenzuela, headed for the Olive Garden for a hearty congratulatory meal.
Florida Institute of Technology
With a productive 2008-2009 year for the student chapter of Chi Epsilon at Florida Tech, this year has been eventful as six new members were welcomed into the chapter and five new officers were elected: New Members: Steven Bell, Anna Hoang, Robert Drew Hollis, Ryan Loughran, Jose Medina, and Susan Smith. New Officers: Anna Hoang, president; Susan Smith, vice-president; Steven Bell, associate editor; Jose Medina, secretary/treasurer; and Robert Drew Hollis, marshal. The Florida Tech chapter took part in numerous activities this year including the steel bridge and concrete canoe competitions, placing third overall for the concrete canoe at the 2009 ASCE Southeast Conference in Nashville, Tennessee. From the Florida Tech chapter, good luck to our graduating members and until next year.
THE TRANSIT 16 FALL 2009 Georgia Institute of Technology
For the 2008-2009 school year, the Georgia Tech chapter of Chi Epsilon was under the leadership of Ryan Rowe, president; Shannon Zambetti (fall) and Samuel Ng (spring), vice-president; Yunita Tjong Fu (fall) and Stephanie Box (spring), secretary; Lynne Schleiffarth, treasurer; Allison Tjong, associate editor; and Kurt Tyler, marshal. On December 2, 2008, the chapter initiated the following 17 new members: Hunter Brown, Lindsay Bray, Aaron Greenwood, Anthony Reass, Shelly Cecil, Ryan Leary, Michael Deane, Timothy Yee, Tiernan Phillips, Elizabeth McGee, Gabriel Vega, Jorge Tafich, Sarah Fredrich, Brittany White, Ryan Ayesh, Alexander Sitt, and Taylor Pitelka. In the spring, the chapter initiated the following 7 new members: Abigail Nelson, Ashleigh Griffin, Kathryn Colberg, Joel Del Rosario, Joshua Gresham, Trai Nguyen, and David Franklin. During the course of 2008-2009, the chapter held meetings with a variety of civil engineering companies such as Walter P. Moore and Haskell to connect Georgia Tech students with potential employers. The new elected officers for the 2009-2010 school year are Stephanie Box, president; Samuel Ng, vice-president; Abigail Nelson, secretary; James McNash, treasurer; Elise Norton, associate editor; and Elise Barrella, marshal.
University of Iowa
During the fall 2008 semester, Richard Valentine, the chapter’s faculty advisor was ill, and no activities were planned that semester because of this. One new member, Matt Flannigan was initiated during this semester. The only activity that occurred during the spring 2009 semester was the welcoming of the new members after the initiation and election of new officers. The outgoing officers are: Cody Pump, marshal; Adam Keen, vice-president; Dan Gilles, associate editor; Anne Buschel, secretary; and Kyle Hudson, president and treasurer. The new officers are: Matt Flannigan, president; Riley Post, secretary; Timothy Schulz, marshal; Morgan Mays, treasurer; David Blanco, associate editor; and Jedidiah Snyder, vice-president.
FALL 2009 17 THE TRANSIT University of Kentucky
The University of Kentucky chapter had its fall initations on December 10th 2008. The new initiates were: Chou-Yu Yong, Robert Brandon Howe, Alireza Zeinalisiavashani, Christopher Jeffrey Jones, Kishore Acharya, Nisal Abheetha Peiris, Yongwei Shan, Kelly Rose Hoeksema, Allison Danielle Westcote, and Dong Zhai. During E-Day of the College of Engineering, the very popular popsicle bridge completion was conducted successfullyl. On the 8th of April new initiations for spring were held. The new initiates were: Nicholas Adam Bender-Saunders, Jacob Noel McNutt, and Justin R. Greenwell. New officers of the chapter are Will Stevens, president, Nicholas Bender- Sanders, vice-president, Alireza Zeinalisiavashani, treasurer, Kelly Rose Hoeksema, treasurer/secretary, NisalAbheetha Peiris, associate editor and Yongwel Shen as marshal.
Lamar University
The Lamar University chapter of Chi Epsilon had numerous achievements during the 2008-2009 academic year. As a result, our chapter had grown tremendously. In the fall 2008, the new initiates are as follows: Srinivas Rao, David Cowart, Jennet Toyjanova, Damien Broomes, Joseph Citizen, Tyler Henneke, Christopher Vasquez, Ryan Abraham, Ritchie Acosta, Mariantonieta Gutierrez Soto, and Havier Bacerra. The officers installed to serve for the spring 2009 are: Jennet Toyjanova, president; Javier Bacerra, vice-president; Mariantonieta Gutierrez Soto, secretary/treasurer; Ritchie Acosta, associate editor; and Tyler Henneke, marshal. The end of the fall semester proved to be very challenging as many of our members played vital roles in the completion of the ASCE steel bridge for our regional competition. This teamwork paid off as the Lamar University chapter ranked 6th place in the Texas/Mexico region of the bridge competition in College Station. In April, we continued to thrive in membership by initiating nine new members. The undergraduate initiates are Maricela Guerrero, Micheal Radi, Binod Dhakal, Brett Becker, Troy Bryan, Prashant KC, Biplesh Niroula, Matthew Hillin, and Kenneth Heisner. The officers installed to serve fall 2009 are: Mariantonieta Guiterrez Soto, president; Ritchie Acosta, vice-president; Maricela Guerrero, secretary/treasurer; Brett Becker, associate editor; and Tyler Henneke, marshal. The students and faculty are thrilled to have Dr. Mien Jao continue to serve as the faculty advisor. He has been of great help to them in all aspects in and out of the classroom.
THE TRANSIT 18 FALL 2009 Lamar University’s new initiates and officers spring 2009
University of Louisville
The Chi Epsilon chapter of the University of Louisville welcomed 14 new members this spring. Our new members include Richard Book, Trey Fletcher, Alex Frommeyer, Andrew McGaha, Dakotah Parker, Timothy Ruhland, and Robert Shaw. A new group of officers was also installed: Erin Cummings, president; Christina Allgeier, vice-president; Alex Frommeyer, secretary/associate editor; Dakotah Parker, treasurer; and Robert Shaw, marshal. Our faculty advisor is Dr. N. R. Bhaskar.
FALL 2009 19 THE TRANSIT Marquette University
The 2008-2009 academic year was very happy and productive for the Marquette University chapter of Chi Epsilon. During the fall semester, five new student members were initiated, including Ryan Borghoff, Benjamin Borowicz, Andrew Genz, Sean Howell, and Gregory Mercurio. In the spring semester, six new student members were initiated, including Parwinder Virk, Christie Nguyen, Christopher Cromos, Paul Stuckey, Joseph Blanchard and Emma Lee Riesterer. After each initiation ceremony, high levels of sociability were enjoyed when the new initiates joined the other Chi Epsilon members, faculty, and guests for an informal dinner at a local restaurant. Each semester, the chapter members held meetings regularly and participated in social events such as bowling. In the fall semester, members of the chapter registered as a group and participated in Briggs & Al’s Run & Walk, a fundraiser for Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin. During the year, the chapter held a service auction, where faculty members could bid to have student members do tasks such as grocery shopping, babysitting, and yard work, in exchange for a donation to the chapter. Many of the active members of the chapter volunteered their time and energy to help the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering at Marquette University with the open house.
University of Maryland
The University of Maryland chapter of Chi Epsilon enjoyed a productive 2008-2009 school year, highlighted by the annual fall career fair and two induction ceremonies. The 2008 Chi Epsilon Civil Engineering Career Fair was held on October 29 and marked by the attendance of representatives from 36 local land development firms, environmental companies and agencies, construction firms, general contractors, and multidisciplinary firms. The fair serves as a showcase for local engineering companies and a tremendous opportunity for students to earn internships and jobs following graduation. The chapter inducted twenty-four members during its December 10, 2008 initiation ceremony, including Doug Asplen, Kevin Biringer, Mark Clifford, Lauren Cook, Brandon Davis, Raina Dwivedi, Kenneth Fabian, Brad Fallon, Chris Fike, Robin Fish, Jeff Goodwin, Katie Green, Jill Holian, Jeff Krummel, Adam Leith, John Maresco, Kristen Markham, Jared McGrath, Michael Mercado, Elizabeth Nolder, Andrew Roseman-Hanauer, Margaret Sharkey, Wesley Tse, and Alicia Walker, and eight members during its May 08, 2009 ceremony, including Haralamb Braileanu, Kehat Falik, Ryan Hurley, Steven Losin, John Thornton, Laura Wachs, Melanie Wong, and Semme Yilma.
THE TRANSIT 20 FALL 2009 At the end of the year, officers were elected for the fall 2009 semester. These officers are Jeff Krummel, president; Brad Fallon, vice-president; Semme Yilma, secretary/treasurer; Wesley Tse, associate editor; and Jared McGrath, marshal. As we look forward to the 2009-2010 school year, we are all excited about the opportunities along the road ahead, including the 2010 career fair and numerous planned social and community events for our Maryland chapter.
University of Massachusetts, Amherst
The University of Massachusetts, Amherst chapter initiated eleven new undergraduate student members including: Morgan Welch, president; John Briand, vice-president; Justin Seltzer, secretary; Omar Swei, treasurer; Eric Magazu, marshal; Allen Sit, associate editor; Matthew Doyon, Koby Lemrise, Kelly Shanahan, Joshua Soares, and Melissa Trombley. The chapter also initiated Stephen Kellogg as Chapter Honor Member. As a former UMass Amherst graduate and current senior vice-president for Camp, Dresser & McKee, Inc., Mr. Kellogg has shown great dedication to his profession and to his alma mater throughout his career. Our chapter is honored to count him among our membership. The chapter has been active in promoting interests of students in our engineering program. The chapter hosted bi-weekly FE exam review sessions taught by faculty members. The chapter also sponsored a graduate school forum where undergraduate students could converse freely and ask questions of current graduate students, faculty, and administrators. The chapter would like to thank the following former officers for their hard work and wish them the best in their future endeavors: Steven Tupper, president; Yesher Larsen, vice-president; Scott Borecki, secretary; Andy Berthaume, treasurer; and Kim Rudy, marshal.
University of Massachusetts at Amherst chapter members
FALL 2009 21 THE TRANSIT University of Massachusetts, Lowell
Another successful year has come and gone for the University of Massachusetts, Lowell chapter of Chi Epsilon. We were able to work with the Humane Society by volunteering our services in a dog wash at the Grooming Emporium here in Lowell. The proceeds were donated to the Massachusetts Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, or MSPCA. Also, we were able to lend a hand with the engineering orientation on campus to help up and coming students get a feel for what UML has to offer. We were honored to induct twenty new member on May 11th, expanding our numbers to twenty-eight. The initiates for spring of 2009 were: Michael Gu, Peter, Bonneau, Matthew Dusenberry, Dary So, Ashley Dumais, Sean Gordon, Nina Carpico, Jordan Aro, Dimitrios Palantza, Mark Champagne, Mark Hollis, Rayan Shamas, Rudolf Kocandrle, Nathaniel Blake, Michael Chapman, Mena Sliman, Gregory Attard, Abdelkader Merazka, Simon Lin, and Robert Reinhart. Carrying out the induction ceremony were all of our current Chi Epsilon members, being: Chronis Stamatiadis, faculty advisor; Craig Marchionda, president; Amy Musgrave, vice-president; Joe McCarthy, treasurer; Mark Grady, secretary; Alan Robertson, associate editor; Erik Gitschier, marshal; and Chris Jones. The newly installed officers for fall 2009 are: Chris Jones, president; Amy Musgrave, vice-president; Alan Robertson, treasurer; Mark Grady, secretary; Nathaniel Blake, associate editor; and Rayan Shamas, marshal. With the installation of these new officers, we are eager to embark on what will surely be a productive year. Although the new members and officers are still settling in, we do have plans for next year. The 2010 Chi Epsilon National Conclave has already made its way to our agenda. We also plan to continue our efforts in the community by volunteering where help is needed both on and off campus. We can only hope that the year to come is as rewarding as the year we have just concluded.
University of Miami
Several milestones have been achieved due to the collaboration between the members of Chi Epsilon’s University of Miami chapter. During the 2008-2009 academic year, the officers of Chi Epsilon met monthly to discuss chapter goals, as well as the election of future initiates and new officers to carry on the positions held by graduating members. Throughout the course of the past year Patrick Kelly, our president, dedicated his time and effort, bringing the University of Miami’s chapter to a new level of
THE TRANSIT 22 FALL 2009 prestige. Patrick was deeply involved in organizing officer meetings to optimize the talent and creativity of the chapter. In addition, Patrick is responsible for coordinating the construction of the future steel sculpture that will be located in front of the UM College of Engineering. Only a small number of engineering schools across the nation have such a sculpture. Both the fall and spring initiation ceremonies were successful in expanding the chapter with talented students to uphold the legacy of the honor society. In December 2008, new initiates included Thomas Makowski, Omar De Leon, Kumiko Tanizaki, Vanessa Pino, Matthew Poling, Reuben Ross, and Pablo Garcia. Another successful initiation ceremony held on May 2, 2009, brought in Stephanos Stephanie, Maria Ronderos, and David Case to the Miami chapter. The induction also held a ceremony to pass the officer positions of graduating seniors to the new elected officers. The officers serving the academic term of 2009-2010 include Patrick Kaimrajh, president; Omar De Leon, vice-president; Jose Cueto, treasurer; Ashley Malinowski, secretary; and David Case, marshal. With the 2008-2009 academic year coming to an end, several great members will be concluding their careers at the University of Miami on May 15. Members obtaining degrees in civil engineering include: Patrick Kelly, Evan Fishgrund, Janie Christianson, John Heitmann, Pablo Garcia, Vanessa Pino, Karen Kajder, and Christina Ortega. The newly elected officers are already compiling plans for the upcoming semester. With future initiation ceremonies and the installment of the steel sculpture approaching shortly, there will be much to look forward to for the upcoming academic year.
University of Miami chapter officers
FALL 2009 23 THE TRANSIT Michigan State University
The Michigan State University (MSU) chapter of Chi Epsilon was pleased to initiate 18 new members on November 16, 2008, and 9 new members on March 29, 2009, all of whom display the high qualities of Chi Epsilon membership. The new fall semester initiates to the MSU chapter are Kevin Barton, Nick Cerullo, Corey Denuyl, Lauren Fedak, Christopher Fournier, Brian Goldberg, Joseph Johnston, Kyle Korson, Nicholas Kuelske, Brent Leverett, Neil O’Brien, Joseph Primeau, Thomas Speer, Terry Stines, David Jonathan Stringer, Abigail R Varner, George Harry Wimbrow II, and Erik Zuker (picture is included). Mr. Roger D. Till was also initiated as Chapter Honor Member. The new spring initiates to the MSU chapter are Matthew Chaperon, Kris Hammerle, Benjamin Jenks, Ashvani Kumar, Sri Kumar, Steven Parse, Kelly Roulier, Danny Strayer, and Brian Wybrecht (picture is included). Congratulations to the new initiates and the Chapter Honor Members. The MSU chapter of Chi Epsilon was involved in several activities throughout the year. On October 4, members represented the organization at the College of Engineering alumni breakfast, and again at the Future Engineers Open House on October 11. Chapter officers guest-grilled at a local restaurant as part of a Chi Epsilon fund raiser and social event, and the chapter also held its bi-annual book sales as fundraisers. The MSU chapter members would like to thank the MSU faculty and staff who donated the majority of the books that were sold to students. During the fall semester initiation, the Chi Epsilon chapter elected one new officer, Lauren Fedak, as SEC representative. Timothy Francisco moved from chapter treasurer to chapter vice-president, and Stephan Maxe, the previous SEC representative, became the new chapter treasurer. Angela Lierman was the only outgoing officer. During the spring semester initiation, the chapter elected six officers: Timothy Francisco, president, previously vice-president; Lauren Fedak, vice-president (previously SEC representative); Stephen Parse, secretary; David Stringer, treasurer; Matthew Chaperon, marshal; and Sri Kumar, associate editor. Outgoing
Michigan State fall Initiation Ceremony Attendees
THE TRANSIT 24 FALL 2009 Michigan State spring Initiation Ceremony Attendees officers are Jason Provines, president; Elizabeth Cramer, secretary; Stephan Maxe, treasurer; Stephen Remias, marshal; and Edward Kantz, associate editor. Based upon his continuous services to Chi Epsilon and the community, including his successful term as chapter president, the officers of the Chi Epsilon MSU chapter selected Jason Provines to receive the annual Conrad Award. Congratulations to Mr. Provines. The entire membership would like to thank our faculty advisor, Dr. Gilbert Y. Baladi, for another year of exceptional service and guidance.
University of Mississippi
During the 2008 fall semester, the University of Mississippi chapter was delighted to welcome Dr. Robert Henry, the National Councillor for the Southwest District. We all gathered at Johnson Commons for lunch; where he informed us about multiple Chi Epsilon scholarships that were available. He discussed the annual report with us and suggested ideas on how we could become more involved as a group. This meeting was very beneficial for us and we thank Dr. Robert Henry for taking the time to come and talk. As individuals, we all took the time to perform activities inside and outside the engineering school, big and small. Some members participated in the annual ASCE concrete canoe and steel bridge competitions. Other members took the time to be an engineering mentor, volunteer to help with judging the annual catapult competition, or even take a few minutes to help out during high school and middle school engineering visits. Also, there was one member who even held the office of president of the
FALL 2009 25 THE TRANSIT engineering student body during the 2008-2009 school year, Lauren Haney. There were several other Chi Epsilon members who also obtained an office in various engineering clubs and student organizations. As a group, we all brainstormed who should be nominated for the Robbins Excellence in Teaching Award. We felt that Dr. Chung Song, our Chi Epsilon faculty advisor, deserved this honor. He is a great teacher and a great leader, and we thought he was very qualified for this award. On April 6, 2009, the University of Mississippi inducted 13 new members into its chapter of Chi Epsilon. These new members all have developed great academic and leadership qualities. The newly initiated members include: John Larry Barnett Jr., Taylor Carrington Bradley, Hannie Parker Capps, Annie Claire Chapman, William Durham Finn, Miles Coleman Fowler, Eames Henley, Bailey Abernathy Hewes, Brain Thomas Hovanec, Mary Alexandra McCaskill, Mark Wesley Phillips, Melissa Banister Russell, and Michael Patrick Stasny. After these members were inducted, elections for new officers were held. The following officers for the 2009-2010 term are as follows: Christine Frost, president; Mark Wesley Phillips, vice-president; William Durham Finn, treasurer; Melissa Banister Russell, secretary; Mary Alexandra McCaskill, associate editor; and finally Eames Henley, the marshal. The chapter says good-bye to the 2008 officers: MacKenzie White, president; Lauren Haney, vice-president; Andrew Greaser, treasurer; Tyler Kidd, secretary; Jared Case, associate editor; and Leyton Proctor, marshal. We hope that these new members can pick up where the 2008 members left off. With our civil engineering school growing, this just means that the Chi Epsilon organization will continue to grow as a whole. With more people involved in Chi Epsilon, we have the ability to become more involved with our community and our school.
University of Missouri, Columbia
The University of Missouri-Columbia chapter of Chi Epsilon initiated nine new members. Those initiated include Adam Frankenberg, Chelsea Smith, James Hammond, Adam Wood, Jeremiah Kasinger, Brendan Abberton and Kyle Allen. We held our initiation on April 24, 2009 in Eckles Hall. Jeremiah Kasinger won the award for best painted transit and James Hammond scored the highest on the initiation exam. The officers for spring 2009 were Aaron Hugenberg, president; Rachel Burnham, vice-president; Seth Scheilz, marshal; Alyssa Singleton, treasurer; Kimberly Suhre, secretary; and Stephen Stinger, associate editor. Our faculty advisor for the fall 2009 semester was Dr. Carlos Sun. The new officers for fall 2009
THE TRANSIT 26 FALL 2009 are Seth Scheilz, president; Chelsea Smith, vice-president; Adam Frankenberg, marshal; Alyssa Singleton, treasurer; and Kimberly Suhre, secretary. We had our semi-annual trash pick-up along Providence Road on April 26 as part of Missouri’s Adopt-A-Highway program. There were a number of members that were part of the steel bridge and concrete canoe teams, both of which participated in the Regional ASCE Competition in Carbondale, IL.
Montana State University
The Montana State University chapter of Chi Epsilon has been active in student support this past year. We provide several programs which many engineering students find helpful; the main two being FE review sessions and a weekly tutoring program. The FE review sessions have been our most successful program. Our chapter examined the FE exam specifications and determined nine general topic areas and five specific areas that could be reviewed. Our chapter then contacted various professors within the College of Engineering at Montana State University. These professors then donated their time to develop and present a review lecture for students planning to take the FE to help them become familiar with the exam topic areas. The review sessions concentrated on solving problems with the supplied FE manual so students can effectively use this manual during test time. The weekly tutoring program also was successful. Members of our chapter volunteer for two hour long slots on Tuesday nights to provide assistance for students struggling with engineering mechanics course work. These sessions provide struggling students with one-on-one assistance. Emphasis is placed on helping students develop problem solving techniques which the struggling students can apply to other engineering mechanics problems and tests. In addition to our student support activities, we have initiated twenty-three new members. Our chapter also had successful elections of new officers for the 2009-2010 school year. The new officers are as follows: Brett Larabee, president; Kalen Ramey, vice-president; Ryan Ford, marshal; Jake Gunther, treasurer; Dylan Larson, secretary; and Brian Church, associate editor.
New Jersey Institute of Technology
The officers for the 2007 – 2008 year included: Kati DiRaimondo, president; Bertha Alfaro, vice-president; Vanessa Jorge, treasurer; Hertzler Awuy, secretary; Alberto Rodriguez, associate editor; and Jacqueline Bunner, marshal. On March 4, 2009, the NJIT Chi Epsilon chapter held its spring initiation for new members. The
FALL 2009 27 THE TRANSIT NJIT Chi Epsilon Members in spring 2009 members initiated included: Ahmad Ahmad, Syed Bilgrami, Ashish Borgaonkar, Bryan Ehnes, Michael Fisher, Ross Flores, Gregory Gashlin, Michael Greendyk, Phillip Ince, Joseph Juzwin, Mohammad Khan, Divya Kumar, Piotr Kurcon, Carlos Lopez, Kyrillos Meseha, Moises Orbe, Elizabeth Quagliano, Tiago Rodrigues, Angelica Rodriguez, Faraz Safaie, Jaime Venegas, Fabian Vieira, Johanna Yarleque, Matthew Young, and Luz Zidziunas. Officers for the 2009-2010 academic year were also elected. The officers elected included: Tiago Rodrigues, president; Johanna Yarleque, vice-president; Carlos Lopez, secretary; Moises Orbe, associate editor; Joseph Juzwin, treasurer; and Syed Bilgrami, marshal.
New Mexico State University
The New Mexico State University chapter had active fall 2008 and spring 2009 semesters, and its membership continues to increase steadily. The chapter members completed several community service projects and participated in chapter social events. In fall 2008, the officers were Christopher W. Taylor, president; Jonathan Frosch, vice-president; Jonathan S. Pink secretary; Eunice Cazares, treasurer; Gabriel Lucero, marshal; and Zack Huff, associate editor. Ten members were initiated in fall 2008: Raquel Barrera, Jessica Bush, Celina Dahlin, Stephanie Gates, Balachandran Ketheesan (graduate student), James Martinez, Jamie Rodriguez, Monica Valverde, Luis Villarreal, and Emily Budagher. Eight new members were initiated in spring 2009: Katrina Horstmann, Joye Moore, Brittany Patterson, Adela Tapia, Juan Solis, Jaime Saenz, Hector Campos, and John Woods (Photos 1 and 2). The chapter officers in spring 2009 were Jonathan Frosch, president; Raquel Barrera, vice-president; Stephanie
THE TRANSIT 28 FALL 2009 NMSU chapter members and initiates – spring 2009 initiation
Gates, secretary; James Martinez, treasurer; Celina Dahlin, marshal; and Monica Valverde, associate editor. The new chapter officers in fall 2009 (Photo 3) are Raquel Barrera, president; Luis Villarreal, vice-president; Katrina Horstmann, secretary; Hector Campos, treasurer; Adela Tapia, marshal; and Isaac Harder, associate editor. Seventeen new members will be initiated this fall 2009.
Spring 2009 initiates: (from left) Katrina Horstmann, Joye Moore, Brittany Patterson, Adela Tapia, Juan Solis, Jaime Saenz, Hector Campos, and John Woods.
FALL 2009 29 THE TRANSIT Incoming officers for fall 2009: (from left) Katrina Horstmann, Adela Tapia, Hector Campos, Luis Villarreal, Raquel Barrera, and Isaac Harder.
In the fall of 2008, Mr. Tim Cynova, PE was initiated as a Chapter Honor Member. Mr. Cynova is the current president of the New Mexico section of the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) and is a senior engineer for the Water Systems Division of the Albuquerque Bernalillo County Water Utility Authority in Albuquerque, New Mexico. In the spring of 2009, Dr. Jorge Garcia, PE was initiated as a Chapter Honor Member. Dr. Garcia is the director of the Utilities Department for the City of Las Cruces, New Mexico. Several Chapter Honor Members, including Dr. Garcia are shown in Photo 4.
NMSU Chapter Honor Members attending the spring 2009 initiation ceremony: (from left) Dr. Ricardo Jacquez, Dr. Jorge Garcia (initiated in spring 2009), Mr. Stephen Hardin, Mr. Jerry Paz, Dr. Conrad G. Keyes Jr., and Mr. Tim Cynova (initiated in fall 2008).
THE TRANSIT 30 FALL 2009 In fall of 2008, the chapter members and initiates participated in the traditional Halloween Howl hosted by the NMSU student government organization. At this event, the members organized a fun kickball bowling game for young children of the community. In spring of 2009, the chapter members volunteered helping as graders for the local chapter of the MathCounts competition for middle school students. Each semester, members and initiates participated in the traditional Adopt-a-Highway service project and a food drive to benefit a local food bank.
Northeastern University
The past year has been an exciting one for the Northeastern University Chi Epsilon chapter. The chapter continues to dedicate time towards assisting undergraduate peers in their civil engineering courses such as soil mechanics, fluid mechanics, structural analysis I, and statics and strengths of materials. Chi Epsilon also continued organizing the semi-annual FE review sessions. Chapter members arranged for civil engineering faculty to instruct evening review sessions in civil subjects including soils and materials, steel design, hydrology, concrete design, structural analysis and statics, environmental engineering, and construction management to seniors preparing to take the FE exam. Students took very well to the review sessions and agreed that they were extremely accommodating. Another recurring event the chapter holds each semester is the graduate school information session for undergraduates. The presentation was given by current chapter officers who had recently gone through the process of applying to graduate school and offered insight and tips to undergraduates considering advancing their education. More presentations that the chapter is looking to make regular are professor demonstration sessions, where Northeastern professors present to students their research projects. This fall, Professor Sasani presented on progressive collapse. Sasani also introduced students to the commonly used Structural Analysis Program (SAP). The annual initiation ceremony was held on April 4, 2009 with great success. The day included a lunch and the initiation of 15 new members! The 15 newly initiated members are Gary O’Connell, Travis Mitchell, Ezra Jampole, Sara Coyle, Brian Briselli, Erica Swansen, Dana Peck, Ryan White, Anthony Campagna, Joshua Gregorio, Quincy Pratt, Brian Estrich, Jen Mitchell, Matt Quigley, and Darrel Barone. In May, the chapter also saw the graduation of three of its former officers: Ryan Seiber, Jaclyn Lee, and Angela Joly. The chapter thanks them and all the other graduating members of Chi Epsilon for their commitment to the chapter and wishes them all the best of luck in the future. The new officers elected for the 2009- 2010 year are Caroline Fischer, president; Jen Ciofolo, vice-president; Josh Gregorio and Erica Swansen, secretaries; Ryan White, treasurer; Travis St. Louis, associate editor; and Garry O’Connel and Ezara Jampole, marshals.
FALL 2009 31 THE TRANSIT University of Notre Dame
The Notre Dame chapter of Chi Epsilon had a successful year with many events in both the fall and spring semesters of 2008-2009. In March, the chapter inducted 13 new members: Sarah Bobby (associate editor-elect), Craig Borchard, Catherine Boris (marshal-elect), Matthew Camus (treasurer-elect), Bethany Comfort, Matthew Dobbertien, Matthew Hopke, Megan LaDriere, Rafael Deheza Landivar, Daniel Mullaney (secretary- elect), Jeremy Tamargo (president-elect), Kevin Vega, and Christopher Vetter (vice- president-elect). Great Lakes Councillor Prof. Eugene Glysson also attended the induction ceremony. This marked the official transition of power from outgoing officers Kyle Pawlak, president; Jessica Winschel, vice-president; Anna Lacey, secretary; Adam Ossola, treasurer; Kathryn Sushinsky, associate editor and Patrick Brewick, marshal. The chapter is grateful for the leadership they have shown! This year, the chapter attempted to reach out to all of the civil engineering students at Notre Dame through various activities and fundraisers. Study breaks were sponsored by the chapter in both semesters, and civil engineering merchandise (long sleeved T-shirts and engraved picture frames) were sold so that students could proudly display their major. In addition, Chi Epsilon contributed to the Tau Beta Pi engineering honors society garden, which now proudly displays the Chi Epsilon Transit prominently in South Quad.
Notre Dame Chi Epsilon members competing in 2009 ASCI concrete canoe race
THE TRANSIT 32 FALL 2009 Notre Dame civil engineering students relaxing at a Chi Epsilon sponsored study break
This spring was an especially eventful time for Chi Epsilon and its members. In February, the chapter’s president and advisor traveled to Cincinnati for the Great Lakes District Conference. This was a great opportunity to bond with other Chi Epsilon members and to hear about what other chapters in the region are doing at their respective universities. Also this spring, Notre Dame chapter Chi Epsilon member Robert M. Moran and Professor of Civil Engineering Ahsan Kareem were inducted into the National Academy of Engineering. Later in April,
Notre Dame New Officers - February 2009
FALL 2009 33 THE TRANSIT Notre Dame inducted class - 2009 Notre Dame hosted the ASCE Great Lakes Regional Conference, with a number of Chi Epsilon members participating. Next year, the Notre Dame chapter of Chi Epsilon is looking to continue its involvement in sponsoring civil engineering events and fundraisers, particularly in conjunction with our ASCE student chapter, and hopes to become involved with a service project.
The Pennsylvania State University
During the 2008-2009 academic year, the Penn State chapter of Chi Epsilon initiated 42 new members. The fall initiation was held on December 2, 2008, at the Atherton Hotel in State College, inducting 38 new members. Those initiated included: Adam Stettler, Adolfo Guinard, Amanda King, Anatoliy Palashnyuk, Andrew de Morais, Andrew Nagle, Anthony Shulde, Brad Zelonis, Brian Gawthrop, Bryce Miller, Chad Martin, Chris Moyer, Corinne Seifert, David Breindel, Derek Sweeney, Eric Robinson, Eric Wickware, James Smith, Jason Machuga, Josh Lesher, Lauren Palko, Lindsey Ulizio, Lucas Perry, Mackenzie Muryn, Matt Lumadue, Mike Greenwald, Mike Race, Mike Taptich, Nicholas Streets, Nick Panick, Patrick Corbitt Kerr, Rachel Urban, Samantha Linder, Scott Trout, Steven Gibson, Tony Carta, Vincent DeRosa, and Yair Wainberg. The initiation ceremony was followed by dinner and a speech by Dr. Martin Pietrucha, a professor specializing in transportation engineering. Dr. Pietrucha spoke
THE TRANSIT 34 FALL 2009 about the profession of civil engineering, one’s responsibilities as a professional civil engineer, and the value of becoming involved in each person’s community as well as being a productive member of society. The spring semester initiation was held on April 22, 2009, at the Atherton Hotel in State College, inducting four new members. Those initiated included: Vincent Guiliani, Andrew Menyo, Daniel Weida, and Robert Zozula. The initiation ceremony was followed by dinner and a speech by Dr. Harry West, professor emeritus. Dr. West spoke about the concept of a civil engineer in more than an engineering sense, that it can be described as a civil service, and upholding the values of Chi Epsilon within the field to honor the engineering profession. The chapter is pleased to congratulate this year’s president, Kelly Bird, who was honored with the Joseph Brandes Chi Epsilon National Scholarship. Chi Epsilon members continued to host tours of the department to interested high school students and their families throughout the school year. Members represented the Civil and Environmental Engineering Department for the university’s engineering open house on February 28, 2009. Chi Epsilon also arranged the review sessions for the FE, successfully scheduling faculty support for review problem sessions prior to both the fall and spring FE exams. In addition, our chapter facilitated making review manuals for the FE exam available at a discount to students leading up to both exams. New officers for the upcoming academic year were also installed. Alberto Lao was selected as the new president; Mike Race, vice-president; Matt Lumadue, secretary; Samantha Linder, treasurer; David Breindel, marshal; and Tony Carta, associate editor. The entire Penn State chapter would like to wish the outgoing officers all the best as they pursue their futures beyond graduation, and thank them for a wonderful year.
Rice University
This year in the Rice University Chi Epsilon chapter, we had two gatherings/ events; they were both successes. First, we co-hosted a banquet at the end of the spring semester with the American Society of Civil Engineers chapter. At this banquet, we had a speaker talk to all the civil engineering students about the important life lessons he has learned as an engineer. We also gave out several awards for exceptional undergraduate students and announced the outstanding professor award. Our second event of the year was the official induction of new members into Chi Epsilon. The current officers graduated and new officers took their places to run Chi Epsilon for another year. Four student members were inducted this year and three were elected to officer positions; Candase Arnold as president, Huda Khalid as vice-president, and Dharma Theja as secretary and treasurer. Agathoklis Girialis, graduate student, was also initiated.
FALL 2009 35 THE TRANSIT Over the next year, we hope to work hand in hand with the ASCE group on campus to promote civil engineering and the ethics involved in being a productive engineer in today’s society.
Rutgers University
Rutgers University proudly welcomed a new class of members to its chapter on April 20, 2009. The ceremony was held at the Rutgers Club Restaurant, where the group of family, friends, and acknowledged professors shared the evening of celebration. During the ceremony, new officers were installed into their respective positions for the upcoming 2009-2010 school year. They are: Taylor Bottar, president; Eugene Mirsky, vice-president; Thomas Aslanian, secretary; James McCarten, treasurer; Jonathan Buhangin, associate editor; Kristen Derewecki, marshal, and Jason Hupp, engineering council representative. In addition to the induction ceremonies that commenced that evening, the attendees were honored to hear a speech from Dr. Trefor Williams of the Rutgers University Center for Advanced Infrastructure and Transportation. He shared his experiences with civil engineering and accentuated the importance of the field in the world today. The past year was a rebuilding year for the Rutgers Chi Epsilon chapter as the members worked toward reorganizing the society. Their hard work proved to be successful, and Chi Epsilon is ready to move forward as an organization. The new inductees have many new ideas and events that they are currently planning for this upcoming year and are excited to become strongly supportive of the Rutgers University civil engineering community.
San Diego State University
San Diego State University chapter initiated six new members in the fall of 2008. New inductees include: Scott Wieser, Spenser Lank, Jose Serrato, Anothony Pasek, John Murphy, and Chris Manriquez. San Diego State University also initiated three new members in the spring of 2009. New inductees include: Justin Barrow, Ivan Castro, and Elham Lotfi. The newly elected officers are Scott Wieser, president; Justin Barrow, vice-president; Elham Lotfi, secretary; Anothony Pasek, treasurer; Ivan Castro, marshal; and Roxanne Sepehri, associate editor. Outgoing officers are Michelle Luna, president; Scott Wieser, vice-president; Jafet Aquilar, secretary; Jose Serrato, treasurer; Richard Fernandez, marshal, and Spenser Lank, associate editor. Chapter activities during the fall 2008-spring 2009 year included organization of a tour of David Kreitzer Lake Hodges Bicycle Pedestrian Bridge, participation in
THE TRANSIT 36 FALL 2009 Incoming officers (from left to right): Justin Barrow, Elham Lotfi, Scott Wieser, Roxanne Sepehri, Anthony Pasek, and Ivan Castro a beach cleanup, a brush clearing, an engineering building clean up, and a Cowels mountain hike. These events were successful in that they increased bonding between the members while helping the community. The initiates also participated a project which consisted of changing a patch of garden near the engineering building into a sustainable xeroscape garden. The recipients of the Charles McMahon scholarship were Jose Serrato for fall 2008 and Elham Lotfi for spring 2009. We would like to extend a special thanks to our latest Chapter Honor Member, James Strayer, associate vice-president and the director of infrastructure planning for Black and Veatch for serving as the guest speaker at the spring 2009 initiation ceremony.
University of South Carolina
The University of South Carolina chapter of Chi Epsilon would like to an- nounce that fourteen new members were inducted on May 7, 2008. These new members are: Josh Atria, Tyler Davis, Eric DiFatta, Chris Houston, William McIntosh, Daniel Smith, Ryan Waring, and Justin Waymer. The newly elected officers for the 2008 academic year are: Joshua Atria, president; Tyler Davis, vice-president; William McIntosh, treasurer; and Ryan Waring, secretary and as- sociate editor. The outgoing officers that served during the 2007 academic year were: Megan Hyman, president; Kari Morrison, vice-president; Andrew Vickery, sec- retary; and Shannon Crownover, treasurer.
FALL 2009 37 THE TRANSIT University of Southern California
The University of Southern California chapter of Chi Epsilon had a tough, yet rewarding, 2009 school year. The beginning of the school year offered a challenging opportunity for the USC Chi Epsilon chapter as they hosted the 22nd annual Chi Epsilon Pacific District Conference (PDC). This weekend in November presented 13 schools from California and Hawaii the opportunity to develop relationships amongst the different conference chapters, and discuss ways to improve the society’s overall performance. The PDC gave attendees the chance to discuss the issues that each chapter deals with, to share ideas on ways to raise funds and increase membership, and to provide Chi Epsilon members with exposure to the industry, allowing students to network with companies from around the state. After the conference, USC returned its focus to internal affairs, initiating 13 new members into its society. During the course of the semester, we organized an array of initiation activities which aimed to accomplish Chi Epsilon’s objectives. The initiates were also imperative to the success of the PDC as they provided the much needed manpower to fuel the achievement of the conference. As the semester concluded, we also introduced our new Chi Epsilon officers: Amanda Tanaka, president; Laura Klein, vice-president; Andrew Change, secretary; Gabrielle LaPorte, treasurer; Edward Bullard, marshal; and Trevor DeLuca, associate editor, who plan on continuing their duties through the fall semester of 2009. The new officers welcomed in the next semester by offering 12 initiates the opportunity to join the society. The new initiates, along with other Chi Epsilon members, participated in multiple community service projects throughout the semester, both on and off campus. One of the events we took part in was helping out with the Mathematics Engineering Science and Achievement (MESA) competition and the tallest tower competition during USC’s engineering week. During these competitions, the initiates and officers judged different science and engineering projects while also offering advice to students from local high schools. Initiates and current members also helped out with Rebuilding Together, a local effort to help restore houses of people in need. The hosting of the PDC conference, along with initiating one of our largest classes, and a better effort to serve our local community, is an indication of USC Chi Epsilon’s growth and its effort to better follow the traits of the ideal engineer.
Southern Methodist University
The SMU chapter of Chi Epsilon successfully conducted their second induction ceremony on March 27, 2009. The induction ceremony was held on the SMU campus, in the Jerry R. Junkins Engineering building. Chi Epsilon alumni, members of the
THE TRANSIT 38 FALL 2009 SMU Department of Environmental and Civil Engineering, and the new member’s parents attended the induction ceremony. The SMU chapter plans to raise awareness of the chapter, to encourage other civil engineering majors to strive to become a member of the chapter, by taking part in school-sponsored events, especially volunteer opportunities. The SMU chapter also plans to hold several events to build intra-chapter relations. Outgoing officers: Angellia Chandler, president; Osman DeLeon, vice- president; Drew Aleto, treasurer; Markus Neubauer, marshal; Emily Long, associate editor (graduated); Christie Chermak, secretary (graduated). Incoming Officers: Kristin Altena, president; Valerie Lemmons, vice- president; Jennifer Broyles, treasurer/secretary; Stefanie Tracy, marshal; Christina Salchow, associate editor.
Tennessee Technological University
The Chi Epsilon chapter at Tennessee Tech has had somewhat of a rebuilding year. The year started off on a great note at the fall of 2008 initiation ceremony, as nine new members were initiated into the chapter. The ceremony was followed by a wonderful dinner and fellowship opportunity, for new and old members alike, graciously provided by our chapter sponsor’s family. The following members were initiated during the fall 2008 initiation: Tim Harrel, Brittany Harris, Daniel Brough, Nick Ethridge, Caitlin Balthrop, Jim Weakly, Ryan Clark, Nathan Melson, and Lindsay Smith. The chapter says good-bye to several members this year, but is pleased to announce that Matt Yeager finished his graduate studies at Tennessee Tech. Additionally, Caitlin Balthrop and Beth Boden both have begun their graduate studies at Tech. New officers were elected after the 2008 initiation and are as follows: Tim Harrel, president; Nathan Melson, vice-president; Brittany Harris, treasurer; Lindsay Smith, secretary; Daniel Brough, associate editor.
Texas A&M University
Another successful year for our chapter has passed here at Texas A&M. We initiated 18 new members in the fall: Madison James Bussey, John Paul Orsak, Jack Wesley Soape, Mary Kathleen Eck, Blake Andrew Sills, Emad A. Kassem, Enad M. Mahmoud, Rebecca Rae Korzenewski, Joshua Leigh Tonn, Heather C. McNeal, Douglas William Bradford, David Ross Kahlich, Mark I. Lane, Kimberly Ann Owens, Rachel Lynn Thompson, Mark S. Kranz, and Stephanie Plugge. The officers for the fall of 2008 were: Julie Samuels,
FALL 2009 39 THE TRANSIT president; Kristen Wallin, vice-president; Leslie Gates, treasurer; Sean Ray, secretary; Michael Brackin; marshal; and Marcelo Galvan III, associate editor. In the spring of 2009, the chapter initiated 23 new members: Rolando Arnoldo Ayala, II, William David Boothe, Madison Suzann Burns, James Travis Campbell, Nicholas Scott Colson, Tyler Jordan Garrett, Coby Colin Gee, Nicholas Lloyd Gilmore, Jonathan Christopher Green, Jamie Mornay Hill, Ryan James Koch, Jordan Michael Main, Ryan Daniel Milligan, Fayez Mahmoud Morjan, Dominic Wayne Novak, Ryan Matthew Opegenorth, Shonario Leron Outten, Matthew Stuart Pittman, Mathew Dale Stevens, Bryan Michael Tyson, Maria Belen Valdovinos, Rachel Claire Veteto, and La’Tonya Nicole Walker. The officers for the spring of 2009 were: Julie Samuels, president; Kristen Wallin, vice-president; Leslie Gates, treasurer; Sean Ray, secretary; Michael Brackin; pledge marshal; and Marcelo Galvan III, associate editor. Our chapter is pleased to announce that our outgoing chapter president, Julie Samuels, received a very great honor this spring. She was named the 2008-2009 Allen C. Ludwig, Jr. Award recipient, which recognizes her academic achievements. This year, the chapter held activities that included lunchtime socials, bowling, and having a barbecue cookout prior to a Texas A&M men’s baseball game. The chapter also participated in many outside events including volunteering at the local food bank, REPLANT, which is a campus-recognized tree planting event, and helping at a city-wide community service project called Big Event.
University of Toledo
The University of Toledo had another great fall 2008 and spring 2009. The Toledo chapter has welcomed nine new members over the past two semesters. These nine new Rocket members include: Laura Cardwell, Michael Endredi, Andrew Kulikowski, Josh Quinlan, Bradley Kahn, Kyle Kreft, Kyle Kuhlman, Cole Marburger, and Colin Serne. All initiates have demonstrated their dedication to maintain and promote the status of civil engineering as an ideal profession. The past year has seen two sets of officers. The fall 2008 officers included: Dustin Collins, president; Marguerite Johnson, vice-president; Brad Taylor, secretary/treasurer; Joel Kozlesky, associate editor; and Mark Gase, marshal. Through the spring of 2009, the officers included: Joel Kozlesky, president; Dustin Collins, vice-president; Blake Gerken, secretary/treasurer; Josh Quinlan, associate editor; and Michael Endredi, marshal. The chapter kept busy by being involved in several activities. To raise money, our president contacted a local printer in order to make and sell graph paper to all engineering students around campus. Members volunteered their time at Technorama, where newspaper bridges were built, and also making blankets to donate to Children’s
THE TRANSIT 40 FALL 2009 University of Toledo Chi Epsilon spring 2009 chapter Back row (from left to right): Blake Gerken, Kyle Kreft, Josh Quinlan, Kyle Kuhlman, Brad Kahn, and Colin Serne. Front row (from left to right): Dustin Collins, Mike Endredi, Laura Cardwell, Jenn Feasby, Cole Marburger, Joel Kozlesky, and Prof. Eugene Glysson
Hospital. Some members joined with the Toledo ASCE chapter competing in the 2009 North Central Regional Conference concrete canoe race held by Lawrence Technological University. The Toledo chapter is looking forward to the upcoming year. Plans are already forming to perform service projects and sponsor speakers that will enhance the campus and local community.
Trine University
Trine University enjoyed another great year. Our chapter welcomed nine new members through the year. During the fall semester, the officers elected were: Stephen Rushfeldt, president; Kyle Silveus, vice-president; Steven Mitchell, treasurer; Megan Rowe, secretary; Curt Daniels, associate editor; and Issa Salsa, marshal. Justin Kurtz and Brad Laucher were also inducted as new members in the fall. In the spring semester, the new officers elected were: Thomas McNicholas, president; Eric Everett, vice-president; Katlyn Pero, treasurer; Megan Rowe, secretary; Brad Laucher, associate editor; and Ivan Toliver, marshal. The following were also inducted but not board members: Kerry Johnson, Matthew Murray, and Travis Skaggs. Dr. Timothy Tyler is our faculty advisor.
FALL 2009 41 THE TRANSIT Trine University Chi Epsilon members are involved in several activities on and around campus. Some of our members joined ASCE in competing in the concrete canoe and steel bridge competitions, presenting engineering to local 5th graders, and organizing a social banquet to interact with local professionals. Our plans for the next year are to again team up with ASCE to compete in the Regional Great Lakes Conference. We also plan to work with Habitat for Humanity in an effort to serve our community and mentor our fellow younger engineers in courses and get them involved in campus events.
University of Utah
The University of Utah (U of U) chapter had a great year during the 2008- 2009 academic year. The induction ceremony was held on April 15, 2009. Ten new members were initiated into Chi Epsilon. The new initiates are: David Smyth, Jason Peterson, Immanuel Aswandi, Brett Raddon, Brian Higley, Crystal Clendennen, Shannon Hanson, James Ries, Rachel Bytheway, and Austin Orr.
University of Utah chapter initiates, current members and the faculty advisor
THE TRANSIT 42 FALL 2009 The outgoing officers of the chapter are: Byron Foster, president; T.J. Gillespie, vice-president; Michael Gibbons, secretary; and Alfred Kalyanapu, associate editor. The new inductees filled most of the officer positions. The newly elected officers are: James Ries, president; Rachel Bytheway, vice-president; Stephan Woll, secretary; Megan Crump, treasurer; Brandon Besser, marshal; and Brett Raddon, associate editor. During the fall semester, 2008, the University of Utah chapter held a social at the home of its faculty advisor, Janice Chambers, to garner interest in Chi Epsilon. Delicious food and karaoke were enjoyed by all attendees. The U of U chapter outgoing President Byron Foster was granted the Departmental Service Award by the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering (CVEEN), in recognition of his service and leadership in CVEEN and the U of U for the 2008-2009 academic year, in April 2009. The final event of the year was the banquet following the induction ceremony. Andy Powell was the guest speaker and he spoke to the students about his experience as a civil engineer. He also encouraged the students to pursue civil engineering and explained the future and benefits of the civil engineering profession. Chi Epsilon at Utah continues to encourage students as they pursue higher degrees and enter the field of civil engineering.
Villanova University
On February 21, 2009, the Villanova University chapter of Chi Epsilon initiated its incoming members. Incoming officers were Nick Tumolo, president; Stephen Ernst, vice-president; Maria Inneo, secretary; Brett Madres, treasurer; Allier Terpeluk, marshal; and Matt Bandelt, associate editor. Over the past year, Villanova’s chapter established a tutoring program for civil engineering students in lower class levels. This program included open office hours during the business week and individual in-depth sessions. The chapter also worked with Villanova’s VESTED program which exposes high school students to engineering. Chi Epsilon members taught the VESTED students how to use the transits during one weekend session and took them outside for the next session where they competed to most accurately determine the height of a building.
Virgina Tech
The Chi Epsilon chapter at Virginia Tech has enjoyed another year of membership. In the fall semester, twenty-three initiates were brought into the chapter while the spring inducted twenty-two members into Chi Epsilon. Both semesters elevated Chapter Honor Member into the Virginia Tech chapter. The fall semester’s Chapter Honor Member was Mr. John Hildebrand and the spring semester’s Chapter Honor Member was retired professor and past Chi Epsilon advisor, Dr. Raymond Plaut.
FALL 2009 43 THE TRANSIT Virginia Tech new incoming officers at initiation ceremony from left to right: Kyle White, Paul Zheng, Francis Pesce, Stephen Litsas and Trish Merrill.
In the fall semester, the chapter participated in the bi-annual Adopt-A-Spot in which a section of highway dedicated to Chi Epsilon is cleaned up. In the fall semester, Chi Epsilon organized the composite pictures to be taken for the graduating civil engineering students. The spring semester saw many of the similar activities performed and added a few more. We performed the Adopt-A-Spot event and had a social, but also started tutoring sections for selective undergraduate classes in civil engineering. Many students attended the Big Event, a community service project, which was made open for initiates and current members. The officers of this semester decided to add an officer position of tutoring coordinator in order to facilitate the program that was recently created. Roger Arnold, current Chi Epsilon member, stepped up to fill the position. The outgoing officers from the 2008-2009 Virginia Tech chapter of Chi Epsilon were: Chris Cholko, president; Thomas Ripley, vice-president; John Grantham and Paul Zheng, secretaries; Eric Duvall, treasurer and associate editor; Carena Cassell, marshal; and Peter Kauffman, webmaster. The incoming officers who were installed in the spring semester are as follows: Paul Zheng, president; Kyle White, vice-president; Stephen Litsas, treasurer; Nash Pleasant, marshal; Francis Pesce, secretary; Trish Merrill, associate editor; and Roger Arnold, tutoring coordinator. At the traditional officers’ dinner at the end of the spring semester, the duties of each officer was handed off to the new officer and general guidelines were given for the next year.
University of Virginia
On May 4, 2009, five new members were initiated and new officers elected. Angelica Perez-De La Rosa will continue as our chapter president. The other five officer slots are filled by new initiates as described below.
THE TRANSIT 44 FALL 2009 Angelica Perez-De La Rosa, Daniel HaileSelassie, Luke Wildfire, John Millspaugh, Cara Magoon, Lindsey Jones, and Jennifer Diggs
2009-2010 University of Virginia Chi Epsilon Officers Angelica Perez-De La Rosa, president; Cara Magoon, vice-president; Jennifer Diggs, associate editor; Lindsey Jones, secretary; Daniel HaileSelassie, treasurer; and Luke Wildfire, marshal. Member John Millspaugh graduated in May 2009. He joined the civil and environmental engineering Master’s program at MIT this fall.
Washington University, St. Louis
In the spring of 2009, the Washington University, St. Louis chapter of Chi Epsilon welcomed five new undergraduate members: Nora Palitz, William Fischer, Hana Launla, Paula Davis, and Emily Greenseth. The following new members were elected as officers: Hana Laurila, president; Emily Greenseth, vice-presi- dent and treasurer; William Fischer, marshal; and Paula Davis, secretary and as- sociate editor. After initiation, which took place on Sunday, April 19th, the new mem- bers enjoyed a social dinner with the graduating Chi Epsilon members. This year marks Dr. Thomas Harmon’s second as faculty advisor.
FALL 2009 45 THE TRANSIT Wayne State University
This year the Wayne State University chapter of Chi Epsilon has made some excellent achievements. On April 24, 2009, new members were initiated and following with the tradition formed last year, initiates from the University of Detroit Mercy (UDM) were received. The elected officers installed are Alexander Lamb, president; Bryan Kennedy, vice-president; Renee Thomas, secretary; Adam Lacey, treasurer; Robert Feister, associate editor; and Kishan Patel, marshal. Together a total of sixteen people were initiated. The remaining initiates are Abulgasem Elarbi, Christopher Bradshaw, Justin Rose, Kakan Dey, Roland Bogdani, Sindurah Vuyyuru, Teja L N Karra, Asmaiel Kodan Naiel, Jacob Munchiando (UDM), Matthew Duffy (UDM) and Patrick Andridge (UDM). James Selegean PhD, WSU adjunct faculty member, was elevated to Chapter Honor Member. Following the initiation ceremony, a banquet was held at the Rattle Snake Club in downtown Detroit. At the banquet, all members initiated along with past members and family from around the area and local industry joined in the celebration. Also in attendance was Great Lakes District Councilor, Prof. Glysson. Earlier in the year, the chapter sent President Luke Mackewich and Associate Editor Alexander Lamb to the district conference at the University of Cincinnati. The event featured several guest speakers along with a field trip to a construction site where a tour was provided. The conference was a great learning experience for Luke and Alexander. Next year the chapter plans to send officers to the National Conclave in Alabama. A project that the chapter participated in along with WSU’s ASCE chapter was the NCCC concrete canoe competition. This was the first year the chapters
WSU Chi Epsilon New Initiates 2009
THE TRANSIT 46 FALL 2009 WSU Chi Epsilon current members 2009 have attempted to do this competition and had great success. The team was made up of approximately 25 members. The event was held at Kensington Metro Park in Milford, MI on April 4th, and hosted by Lawrence Technological University. Through two semesters of tireless work, the team managed to take 5th place overall in the competition and 3rd place in the oral-technical paper presentation. Working together with the ASCE, Chi Epsilon at WSU hopes to make the competition a tradition at Wayne State. This year has been a big success for Wayne State’s Chi Epsilon chapter. Through hard work and participation in regional events, the chapter hopes to gain a stronger foundation in the civil engineering community both locally and nationally.
2009 District Conference representatives
FALL 2009 47 THE TRANSIT WSU Chi Epsilon and ASCE concrete canoe team West Virginia University
On April 30, 2009, six new elected officers were installed. These new officers include John Crane, president; Anna Klenke, vice-president; John Wattick, treasurer; Emily Rengers, secretary; Nina Viola, associate editor; and Lisa Hough, marshal. Our faculty advisor and department head are Roger Chen and Radhey Sharma, respectively. At the beginning of this school year, our chapter attended the Freshman Engineering Fest where we met and spoke with prospective civil engineering freshman
West Virginia chapter members enjoying Sociability
THE TRANSIT 48 FALL 2009 West Virginia chapter members take a break from chapter activities students about Chi Epsilon. Interested students were told about qualification requirements, benefits of joining the society, and were given our latest news booklet. With the FE exam coming up quickly around the corner, our president, John, is trying to organize a few civil-specific review sessions. Review sessions for the general morning exam have already been set up, but as the honors civil society, we feel it is our duty to help all of the civil engineering students excel in the afternoon session. As a completely new board of officers, we realize our experience is limited, but we are the elected leaders of our chapter and will do our very best to assist in the growth and production of the West Virginia University chapter of Chi Epsilon.
University of Wisconsin, Madison
During the 2008-2009 school year, the University of Wisconsin, Madison Chi Epsilon chapter saw their group transform as new members took the reins. The group as a whole participated in many volunteer events as well as began some new practices geared at informing the entire civil engineering department, faculty, and students about the practices and focus of Chi Epsilon.
FALL 2009 49 THE TRANSIT During the fall semester, Chi Epsilon focused its energy on Trick-or-Treat for Canned Goods. The event is hosted by the Madison chapter with participation from several other engineering student organizations, such as ASCE. The event raised and donated just over 5000 lbs of food to our local branch of Second Harvest. The initiation banquet was held December 7, 2008, where Chi Epsilon welcomed: Alexander Rexrode, Paul Lang, Adam Crook, Derrick Anderson, Edward Sippel, Andrew Larkin, Bryan Pitterle, Godine Chan, and Josiah Hawley. The officers elected to lead during the spring 2009 semester were: Kyle Peschel, president; Preston Judkins, vice-president; Nick Matthews, secretary; Paul Lang, treasurer; Paul Pebler, marshal; and Ross Tillman, associate editor. In the spring semester, Chi Epsilon volunteered to help grade tests for MathCounts!, a local math contest for middle school children, as well as volunteer for the YSA Middle School Scientific Olympiad as tutors/guides for a local participating school. Our chapter also began a biannual newsletter to be sent out to civil engineering faculty as well as an informational handout for civil engineering students to learn more about our organization. Chi Epsilon also held a spring initiation on May 3, 2009, adding Brent Ellifson, Chelsea Morrison, Tal Sztainer, Mitchell Patoka, Jason Lyons, Conner Fischer, Sean Scott, and Kevin Lee as members. The newly elected officers for the fall 2009 semester are: Kyle Peschel, president; Connor Fischer, vice-president; Brent Ellifson, secretary; Jason Lyons, treasurer; Amanda Winters, marshal; and Bryan Pitterle, associate editor. The UW-Madison chapter is also proud to announce the installation of Professor Steven Loheide as our new faculty advisor. Prof. Loheide will act as a constant in our chapter to help make the frequent turnovers between old and new members run smoothly as well as provide advice from a professional perspective.
THE TRANSIT 50 FALL 2009