Alumni, family, and friends of The GeorgAlumni & Families Weekende Washington University (GW) stepped back in time at this year’s '90s-themed while also getting a glimpse into GW’s future. As part of the weekend’s festivities, GW Engineering welcomed more than 75 alumni, current students, and their families to its annual open house on October 25.
Guests were greeted warmly by SEASSPAN student volunteers at check-in. They enjoyed a light breakfast while connecting with one another, as well as GW Engineering faculty and staff, and had the chance to try their luck at “Spin for Swag,” winning GW Engineering-branded items like a stress relief robot, 6-in-1 pen, flashlight, or keychain to showcase their school pride.
During breakfast, Interim Dean Jason Zara delivered remarks centered around the value of the community that GW Engineering has built for current students, faculty, staff, and alumni. He emphasized how vital this community will be as we navigate uncertain times at GW, in Washington, D.C., and across the world.
“While I don’t think we possessed the foresight to predict the rapid changes we are experiencing in higher ed and the workforce, I do think we understood that helping our students embrace our ‘Engineering and….’ motto would position them to thrive in their future careers, regardless of the circumstances,” said Dean Zara.
GW Engineering’s world-class facilities are central to our mission of educating the next generation of engineers equipped to address emerging challenges and their implications. Six SEASSPAN student volunteers led guests on a tour of our classrooms, studio and materials labs, clean room, machine shop, and high bay, which showcase our commitment to cutting-edge education and innovation.
Attendees were particularly captivated by a special art installation curated by Associate Professor of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering Azar Panah. The featured pieces bring fluid dynamics to life in a way that perfectly blends engineering and art, serving as a powerful example of how GW Engineering encourages interdisciplinary work and creative ways to communicate research.
As we celebrate our past and look toward the future, GW Engineering continues to thrive through the dedication of its faculty, staff, students, and alumni. Events like this open house remind us of the strong community that supports us in translating innovations to society responsibly.