With proud family members and friends looking on, the University of Utah’s engineering graduating class of 2015 walked through its convocation ceremony filled with hope, vitality and a promise for a bright future.
College of Engineering Convocation Video and Photo Gallery Class of 2015
“There has never been a better time to graduate in engineering or computer science than today,” U College of Engineering Dean Richard Brown said during his welcoming remarks. “Large technology companies, government entities and startups across the U.S., and particularly in Utah, are pleading for more graduates from top-tier engineering colleges. As graduates of the University of Utah, you are well prepared for the challenges and opportunities of our time.”
More than 620 graduates walked through the convocation ceremony, which was held Friday, May 8, at the Jon M. Huntsman Center. It is estimated this was the College of Engineering’s largest graduating class in its history.
Brown cited three U College of Engineering alumni who have forged successful careers in their fields: Gretchen McClain, a mechanical engineering graduate, became NASA’s deputy associate administrator who led the International Space Station program; Mark Fuller, a civil engineering graduate, started his own water-fountain design firm, WET Design, which created the water feature for the Bellagio Resort and Casino in Las Vegas as well as the Olympic fountain at the Gateway Mall in Salt Lake City; and Colette Mullenhoff, a computer science graduate and programmer at movie special effects firm, Industrial Light & Magic, who recently won a scientific Academy Award for her work on 3D software.
“It is hard to predict where opportunities will lead our graduates, but with their dreams and a top engineering education, you might say that ‘the sky is the limit,’” Brown said.
Also during the ceremony, Brown recognized several guests with special awards:
Calvin S. and JeNeal N. Hatch Prize in Teaching – Douglas A. Christensen, U professor in bioengineering and electrical and computer engineering.
University of Utah Early Career Teaching Award – Mathieu Francoeur, U assistant professor in mechanical engineering.
College of Engineering Outstanding Service Award – David G. Jorgensen, U electrical and computer engineering graduate, 1961; co-founder, Katun Corporation.
Honorary Engineering Alumnus – Jeff Rogers, Paul Rogers and Associates.
College of Engineering Graduating Student Leadership Award – Brian Zenger, U bioengineering graduate.