Outgoing Chemical Engineering Chair Larry Jang gave a final chest-pound fist bump to graduates Monday as the department celebrated the accomplishments of its students and supporters.
“Everyone deserves an award,” said Jang, who is retiring but plans to still teach some classes. “If you think you deserve an award, let me know.”
One of Monday’s award winners was Distinguished Alumni John Crouch, a retired VP and Underwriting Manager for the Starr Companies. “I’m so excited to see so many people pursuing this field,” said Crouch, a 1978 CSULB graduate. “Keep in touch with the people around you and you’ll be very successful.”
Associate Dean of Academic Programs Tracy Maples also urged students to stay in touch. “We really hope you’ve enjoyed your time here. Tomorrow is commencement and this will become your alma mater.”
Besides attending alumni events and serving on advisory boards, students can also return to enroll in the new master’s degree in chemical engineering. “Consider taking our master’s degree in this program,” said Jang. “Go for it.”
Mohan Xing received Graduate Dean’s List recognition, while Sreeja Gouni received the Outstanding MS Thesis Award. Tahani Al Bulushi was recognized as the Outstanding BS ChE Student.
Adam Grosvirt-Dramen and Leo Minh Ly received Outstanding Honor’s Thesis Awards. Jasper Kelly, Leo Minh Ly, Pega Ostad, Michael Pardo, Edward Thai, Jennifer Vinh, and Jessica Wewers were recognized with Outstanding Undergrad/Grad Research Awards.
Nicole McInerey, Issac Oboka, Hanif Payandeh, and Jennifer Vinh were recognized for their achievement on their Southern California Gas Co. projects and Brandan Asamoto, Hoang Nguyen, Charlie Norng, and Anthony Reyes for building a catapult for Engineering Night at the Pyramid.
Professional Leadership Awards went to Tau Beta Pi chapter president Edward Thai, and AIChE Officers Osvaldo Casas, Candelaria Flores, William Forbes, Dillon Francis, Jasper Kelly, William Long, and Nicole McInerney.