MinerAlert
MinerAlert
On May 11, 2023, The University of Texas at El Paso (UTEP) College of Engineering hosted its traditional Graduate Hooding and The Order of the Engineer ceremonies at Magoffin Auditorium. These memorable ceremonies including more than 300 newly inducted engineers as well as 100 master’s and Ph.D. candidates, marked the celebration of a major achievement in the students’ academic path.
Upholding Ethical Practices: The Order of the Engineer Ceremony
The day began with The Order of the Engineer ceremony, an event that recognizes the students' commitment to uphold ethical standards and contribute to society through their engineering skills. Louis Everett, Ph.D., Associate Dean for Undergraduate Studies, and Academic Affairs of the College of Engineering, warmly welcomed the graduating class and highlighted the importance of the ceremony in recognizing their accomplishments and the education they have received.
"In choosing engineering or computer science as your field of study, you've taken on a significant challenge," Dr. Everett shared. "These disciplines require rigorous training and a deep understanding of complex concepts. This ceremony serves as a reminder of the responsibility and commitment that comes with being an engineer."
The ceremony continued with an inspiring keynote address by Montserrat Najera, a graduating senior in Civil Engineering. Najera shared her personal experiences and encouraged students to continue pushing boundaries and making a positive impact on society through hard work, determination, and perseverance.
Before College of Engineering faculty members, friends, and family, students recited the Obligation of an Engineer and solemnly pledged to contribute to the betterment of society. After taking this pledge students received a stainless-steel ring representing their dedication to ethical engineering values and their determination to make a difference in the world.
Graduate Hooding Ceremony: A Celebration of Accomplishments
Following The Order of the Engineer ceremony, over 100 engineering and computer science students receiving their Master of Science or Ph.D. degrees during this spring were hooded by their respective faculty advisors.
Martine Ceberio, Ph.D., Associate Dean for People, Culture and Environment for the College of Engineering, shared her joy for the graduates' achievements and stressed the importance of ethical implications in the field of engineering. She urged the students to embrace the values of integrity, responsibility, and sustainability to address complex challenges in their careers. "Never lose sight of curiosity," Dr. Ceberio advised the graduates. “The field of engineering is not without its complexities, and you must confront them head-on! From ethical dilemmas brought on by emerging technologies to the imperatives of rising global issues, the world ahead may be daunting. However, it is through confronting these challenges that you will truly test yourself and your values and make a lasting impact.”
Record-breaking Achievements and Diversity
The graduating class of Spring 2024 achieved several important milestones, including the first 6 students graduating with a degree in Aerospace and Aeronautical Engineering and the first student graduating with a degree in Computer Engineering. Additionally, over 100 undergraduate students graduated with honors, a whooping 37.4% of the class! The College also saw record numbers of graduates from programs such as Civil Engineering, Construction Management, and Engineering Innovation and Leadership.
In terms of demographics, 5 female students graduated with a Ph.D. degree or Engineering Interdisciplinary degree, making up 42% of the semester's graduating class. Furthermore, 84% of undergraduate students graduating this semester are Hispanic, setting a new record for spring semesters.
Eric Macdonald, Ph.D., Associate Dean for Research and Graduate Studies at the College of Engineering, commended the graduates for their achievements and diverse backgrounds. He added: “You are now part of a select group, and you have a great responsibility to your profession and society, you belong to the generation of engineers and computer scientists that will maintain the technical vitality of our nation and ultimately, the well-being of our planet.”
Congratulations and Future Endeavors
The Graduate Hooding and The Order of the Engineer ceremonies at UTEP represent the college's commitment to excellence in education and the preparation of well-rounded engineering professionals. These graduates are now ready to embark on promising careers or pursue further academic endeavors, poised to make significant contributions to their respective fields and society at large.
The College of Engineering congratulates the graduates on their achievements and wishes them success in their future endeavors. For more highlights from the 2024 ceremonies, visit our online galleries.
https://www.utep.edu/engineering/orderoftheengineer/gallery/2024spring.html and https://www.utep.edu/engineering/graduateceremony/gallery/2024spring.html.