News & Features
Transforming Ideas into Reality
Valpo’s College of Engineering brings together top tier educators who truly thrive when placed in a classroom setting. Flavia Mendonca, Ph.D., assistant professor of civil engineering, combines her passion for teaching and her expertise in the field of civil engineering, as the first female Latin American professor in the College. “My start in Valpo is interesting because I interviewed two separate times,” Professor Mendonca says. “The first time was when my husband got a job in Chicago and I started looking for a position in a small school environment then I found a visiting position, applied, interviewed and was offered the role, but then I got pregnant and Valpo was a one-hour commute from Chicago, so I had to refuse the offer. Luckily, the next year I applied again and got the offer and this time I accepted.” Professor Mendonca first taught at a small school in Virginia and found…
The Impact of WAVES on Valpo Students
At Valpo, our students are mentored to be tomorrow’s servant leaders and are encouraged to seek out opportunities that will allow them to make a real impact in the world. Through the College of Engineering, students are testing the skills that they learned in the classroom during service trips with Working Across Vocations Everywhere through Service (WAVES). Civil engineering major Allison Yohanan ’24 shares the value of these projects and the true difference they make in the communities that they work with after three project-based service trips and her latest scoping trip, a venture to scout out a potential location for the group’s newest project. “I would say these trips require the ability to learn and the ability to listen, especially with scoping trips. You need to listen to the people and not be overbearing,” says Allison. “A big thing from these WAVES trips is to listen and not force…
In the Business of Sustainability
James Nagel ’10, a Valparaiso University alumnus, majored in mechanical engineering with a minor in business administration, and he is now using his understanding of technology and business to support sustainable energy technology. He is the co-founder of HelioVolta — which performs analysis, assessments and support for solar energy projects — and SolarGrade, a software organization within HelioVolta that provides field workers with the tools to maximize efficiency and communication. Out of 140 competing organizations, his company won the U.S. Department of Energy’s Software Innovation Prize in 2022 in the renewable space, and was later awarded a Small Business Innovation Research Grant from the same department. Before any of that, however, James was a student in Bronxville, New York with some close ties to Northwest Indiana. “My parents met at Valpo, my grandfather was the dean of the Chapel for a while, so it was a big nudge from the…
Pushing Onward
Valpo’s College of Engineering is a place where students can expect to be mentored, challenged, and tested in order to reach their highest potential. Our faculty believes that each incoming student, regardless of their background, carries a different perspective and offers something valuable to the field of engineering. For Isoken Ogli ’23, the encouragement that she received from her teachers and Dean Doug Tougaw ’05 MBA played a vital role in shaping who she would be as a student and in the formation of her post-graduation career goals. “I’m an international student and people sometimes ask me ‘why did you choose Valpo, a small school in Indiana?’’ says Isoken. “I like to think that everything that happens in my life happens for a reason and falls into alignment for a reason and being at Valpo was a blessing. I don’t think I would have succeeded and been highlighted in the…
Wired for Success with Wireless Experiences
In the world of computer programming, the exclamation point means “not,” or “opposite.” So when Dan White, Ph.D., associate professor of electrical and computer engineering, and his colleagues founded the !WIRED Lab — or the Wireless Research and Electronic Discovery Lab — in 2014, they were really conveying that the program had a focus on wireless technology. Since its inception, the facility has been an invaluable source of hands-on opportunities for students looking to get into the field of electrical engineering. “The point of the lab is for students to work on projects,” Professor White explains. “We’ll have students working on larger projects like global networks, and then, since we have the resources, equipment and space, if students are interested in the things I’m interested in, they don’t have to work on the main projects. If they want to do something just on the side, I’ll support them. I’ll take…
Designing Change One Project at a Time
Valparaiso University’s College of Engineering is a place where students come in with an idea of what they want their future to look like, and our faculty help guide them until they have the resources to make that future a reality. Georges El-Howayek, associate professor of electrical and computer engineering, is one of the faculty members who supervise and advise the senior design course that is a requirement for engineering students to graduate. This course was created in a way that provides students with real world experience and allows them to be placed in an environment that mimics the current industry standards without leaving campus. “One of the biggest objectives of this class is to give students a real-world experience,” Professor El-Howayek says. “We give them a problem and we give them a customer and it becomes their job to solve it. Even our office space is designed with an…
Valpo Engineering Alumni Recognized for Achievement
Two notable College of Engineering Alumni were honored at Homecoming 2023 for their career achievements since leaving their programs. Michael Steffen ’07, a double major in mechanical and electrical engineering was given the Outstanding Young Alumni award, while Ben Macy ’13, an electrical engineering major, earned the First Decade Achievement Award. These two embody the value of leadership that acts as a pillar of the University’s future development plan Uplift Valpo: Our Beacon for the Journey Forward. Michael was drawn to Valpo due to its identity as a small, Lutheran school where he would be able to make connections with his professors and classmates that may not have been possible at another institution. “I was really excited about that compared to the other engineering colleges, where I would just be a number,” Michael says. “Valpo felt different.” Growing up in a family of engineers, Michael was very familiar with the…
College of Engineering Dean Takes on ASEE Presidency
Doug Tougaw ’05 MBA, Ph.D., P.E., dean of the Valparaiso University College of Engineering, has had a twenty-year long relationship with American Society for Engineering Education (ASEE). During those decades, he has filled multiple leadership roles ranging from section chair for Illinois and Indiana, zone chair for the Midwest and Southeast, and vice president for finance. Now, in 2023, Dean Tougaw has taken the reins as the organization’s president. “It’s a heavy responsibility, but one that I’ve been preparing for the past 20 years,” Dean Tougaw says. “The goal is to find ways to strengthen the education that is offered to our young engineering professionals. It's to provide support to the faculty and staff who help to teach our engineering students.” ASEE is a nonprofit organization that encourages excellence in engineering education through policies and programs that enhance professional opportunities for professors, deans, and department chairs across the nation. Founded…
Valparaiso University Student Engineer Leads the Way for Student Opportunities
Feb. 10, 2020 – Valparaiso, Indiana – Hannah Nelson ’23, a Valparaiso University electrical engineering student and IPC chapter president, has been elected by her peers to serve a one-year term as the student member liaison for the IPC board of directors. She is the second student in the organization’s history to hold this position. “It feels unreal to be given the opportunity to represent all student chapters,” Nelson said. IPC is a global standards and trade organization dedicated to furthering the competitive excellence and financial success of its members in the electronics industry. Through the IPC Education Foundation, electrical engineering students gain access to industry scholarships, employment and professional training. As the student liaison for the board of directors, Nelson will play an active role in creating those opportunities for electrical engineering students across the nation, including her classmates at Valparaiso University. In her role, Nelson will sit on…
Engineering Your Own Path
When Theresa Green ’16, Ph.D., transferred to Valparaiso University to complete her bachelor’s in mechanical engineering, she never predicted the connections and future she would discover pursuing engineering education. Currently a postdoctoral fellow in engineering education at Utah State University, Theresa participated in a remote internship with the Smithsonian Science Education Center this past spring. Working alongside science curriculum experts and specialists, she worked specifically to help revise the engineering modules for grades one and two. “As I’ve been going through my graduate studies, I’ve been very interested in curriculum development specifically,” Theresa says. “I was curious about what it looks like in the K–12 setting.” Theresa’s interest in engineering education developed during college, and she had the chance to explore her curiosity at Valpo. Theresa connected with Ruth Wertz, Ph.D., P.E., assistant professor of general engineering, and pursued an opportunity to do research about the concept assessment tool for…
Fostering Community
In Valpo’s College of Engineering, students are encouraged to explore their professional interests and foster community through extracurricular involvement. Two student organizations — the Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers (SHPE) and the National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE) — were recently established to serve as professional homes for historically underrepresented students within the College of Engineering. “I was drawn to the idea of joining a Black community where we all are working toward similar educational goals,” says Justine Dorsey ’24, a mechanical engineering major with a minor in Spanish. “The community has been very beneficial as a first-year student. Coming to Valpo, I didn’t know anyone, but I met friends through NSBE who are all engineering majors and are able to give me advice about the classes they have already taken.” NSBE at Valpo focuses on increasing awareness and interest in various engineering disciplines and careers among younger, underrepresented students.…
Student Organization Spotlight: Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers
The Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers (SHPE) is one of the College of Engineering’s newest student organizations. In the short time the organization has been on campus, students have already begun to connect deeply with the mission of the group. Valpo’s SHPE chapter works to fulfill the goals of the national organization: change lives by empowering the Hispanic/LatinX community to realize its fullest potential and to impact the world through STEM awareness access, support, and development. At Valpo, that starts with members building each other up at every meeting, working to create a world where Latinos are highly valued and influential as leading innovators, scientists, mathematicians, and engineers. On campus, the group supports members in and out of the classroom. Biweekly study tables help members keep academics at the forefront, while professional development opportunities, on and off campus, build confidence and networking skills for the organization. Both SHPE President Monica…
Dedicated Lab Creates Home for Bioengineers
Beginning with construction in spring 2021, updates to the Donald V. Fites Engineering and Innovation Center will provide Valpo’s bioengineering students with a dedicated lab. This lab will be possible thanks to the generosity of James Guilbeau ’60. His vision is to provide bioengineering students with a state-of-the-art facility for educational laboratory experiences. Having a dedicated space will allow students to learn about a variety of bioengineering technologies within the confines of the engineering building, rather than its temporary location in Neils Science Center. “Bioengineering students will have a place to call their own in Fites, where they can really delve into the different paths offered by the three tracks in bioengineering: biomechanical, bioelectrical, or biomedical,” says Craig Goehler, Ph.D., associate professor of mechanical engineering and bioengineering. “Our hope is that with a dedicated bioengineering space, students will feel a greater sense of belonging within the College of Engineering, similar…
Three Valpo Students Named Tau Beta Pi Scholars
Tau Beta Pi, the world’s largest engineering honor society, has awarded more than 2,798 scholarships for their senior year of engineering study since the program was established in 1998. Three Valpo engineering students were named Tau Beta Pi Scholars for 2020–2021. “Valparaiso University’s three 2020–2021 Tau Beta Pi Scholars demonstrate the continuing excellence of the College of Engineering,” says Eric Johnson ’87, Ph.D., dean of the College of Engineering. “Their dedication to learning and success is a testament to their hard work and the support of Valpo’s programming and faculty. We are incredibly proud of their success, and we look forward to the world-changing work they will implement in their respective fields after graduation.” Jon Bayert ’21 is a computer engineering and mathematics major. Jon is thankful for the opportunities to pursue education, clubs, and research at Valpo, all of which contributed to putting what he is learning into action…
Valpo Alumna Follows Passions Around the Globe
Britney Meyer ’11, a civil engineering and Spanish double major, has traveled the world using her faith and her interests to impact communities in the Midwest, Honduras, Tanzania, and beyond. After working for the city of Chicago for three years after graduation, Britney pursued an opportunity that would take her overseas for a year. Britney participated in the World Race, a program for young adults who travel to 11 different countries in 11 months and partner with local Christian organizations and missionaries. “It was a year full of growth, adventure and culture. I had the chance to participate in construction work, water filter distribution, teaching English, serving in orphanages, and assisting with agriculture — all to glorify the Lord,” Britney says. While World Race was Britney’s longest overseas service opportunity, it was not her first. Through Engineers Without Borders (EWB) at Valpo, Britney participated in an implementation trip to Tanzania…
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Valparaiso University Engineers Put Their Skills to the Test with Race Car Design and Construction
Valparaiso, Indiana – Students in the Valparaiso University College of Engineering are designing, fabricating and racing their own small, formula-style vehicle to compete in the SAE International Formula SAE Michigan competition. The event will take place in Spring of 2026 at the Michigan International Speedway. “I’m so happy I’m part of this. I can’t express how grateful I am for how far this has come, and for all that I’ve learned,” Kailey White ’27 said. White, a lifelong car enthusiast, wants to work in the automotive industry as a racecar engineer after graduation. Her passion for cars led her to discover the competition and start the Valparaiso University team. Throughout the spring of 2025, the group designed and digitally assembled the vehicle for fabrication over the summer. The current design should reach top speeds of between 160 and 200 mph. “We have a long way to go, but we’ve come…
Simeon Ehm’s ’24 Path from Environmental Passion to Purposeful Impact
When Simeon Ehm ’24 first arrived at Valparaiso University from Castle Rock, Colorado, he was looking for more than a degree. He was searching for direction — a place to grow his knowledge while deepening his values, and prepare for a career that would leave the world better than he found it.At Valpo, he discovered all of that and more. Simeon became part of a community grounded in purpose, where academic excellence is paired with personal transformation. Within Valpo’s environmental engineering program, he immersed himself in hands-on learning that tackled real-life issues head-on. From analyzing soil horizons at the Kankakee River to presenting capstone projects that modeled professional practice, he was empowered to think critically, lead confidently, and act with integrity. Throughout his time at Valpo, Simeon’s sense of calling became clearer. He came to understand that engineering isn’t only about equations, it’s about people. The need for clean water…
Lighting the Way | Adelle Holder’s ’24 Purpose-Filled Path in Mechanical Engineering
Adelle Holder '24 came to Valpo ready to build her future in engineering. What she found was a place that welcomed her as she was and helped her discover all she could become. Drawn to Valparaiso University’s nationally ranked College of Engineering, Adelle chose mechanical engineering because she loved to build and solve problems. But her journey quickly became about more than equations and machinery – it became a story of growing confidence, finding her voice, and uncovering a more profound sense of purpose. From her earliest classes, Adelle was immersed in a hands-on, collaborative environment that emphasized technical excellence and innovation with heart. With small class sizes and faculty who knew her name, she was encouraged to push boundaries and explore the many ways engineering could be used to serve and uplift others. That culture of mentorship led to more than academic growth. With personalized guidance and career support, Adelle…
From Curiosity to Contribution: How Dylan Grace ’23 Found His Calling at Valpo
When Dylan Grace ’23 first stepped onto Valparaiso University’s campus, he had no idea how transformative his college experience would be. What began as an unexpected choice quickly became the foundation for a life rooted in discovery, growth, and purpose. At Valpo, Dylan didn’t just earn a degree — he crafted a future grounded in curiosity and illuminated by possibility. Dylan pursued a double major in computer engineering and physics, driven by a fascination and a desire to understand the full spectrum of how computers work. With guidance from supportive faculty and the flexibility to explore beyond the standard curriculum, he hand-designed an academic path that reflected depth and innovation. Through independent studies in compiler construction and chip design, Dylan came close to achieving his personal goal: to one day build a computer from scratch. “The College of Engineering taught me to be really interested in the learning process —…
Valparaiso University Celebrates Graduates at 2025 Commencement Ceremonies
Valparaiso University held its annual commencement ceremonies for those graduating graduate and undergraduate programs on Saturday, May 10, 2025. Graduating students from the College of Arts and Sciences and College of Business received their diplomas at 9 a.m., while those from the College of Engineering and College of Nursing and Health Professions crossed the stage during a 2 p.m. ceremony. Founder of CMC Enterprises, LLC and former president and CEO of Chicago United Gloria Castillo served as guest speaker for both events. “I have come to believe that honoring your values, even when the stakes are high, is never the wrong decision,” Castillo told the graduates. “Your values will guide you like the north star. I believe that when we live our values, we gain strength. Commitment to your values is a superpower.” Graduates representing each of the University’s Colleges also took the stage, including business administration major Peyton Evans…
Earth Day, Every Day — Valparaiso University’s Ongoing Commitment to Environmental Stewardship
As Earth Day 2025 approaches, Valparaiso University is once again demonstrating that its commitment to sustainability goes far beyond a single day on the calendar. Through hands-on research, collaborative community partnerships, and passionate student involvement, Valpo continues to embrace environmental stewardship as a year-round responsibility. “Sustainability at Valpo isn’t just a program or a buzzword — it’s part of who we are,” said Julie Peller, Ph.D., professor of chemistry and longtime environmental advocate. “From our classrooms to our labs to the communities we serve, our students are learning what it means to take responsibility for the world around them.” Turning Up the Heat on Renewable Energy Research That spirit of innovation comes to life at the James S. Markiewicz Solar Energy Research Facility (SERF), home to the only undergraduate solar furnace in the world. Inside SERF, students are doing more than learning about renewable energy — they’re helping shape its…
Valparaiso University Students to Showcase Innovative Solutions at Engineering Design Expo
Photo by Kevin Fedde After months of sketches, calculations, prototypes, and breakthroughs, Valparaiso University’s senior engineering students are ready to share what they have discovered. On Saturday, April 26, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., Valparaiso University’s College of Engineering will host the 2025 Engineering Design Expo at the Gellersen Center and the Fites Innovation Center. “The expo is a celebration of the creativity, collaboration, and dedication of Valpo engineering students,” said Georges El-Howayek, Ph.D., associate professor of electrical and computer engineering. “It highlights their ability to apply engineering principles to solve real-world problems and address community needs.” A cornerstone of Valpo’s engineering curriculum, the senior design experience bridges the gap between theory and practice through hands-on learning. Over the course of the academic year, students work in multidisciplinary teams to develop practical solutions to complex, real-world problems. These open-ended projects mirror the types of challenges encountered in industry and…
How Valpo Engineer Antuane Thompson ’20 is Powering Positive Change
Antuane Thompson ’20 had plenty of options regarding his higher education plans. He was accepted to all seven universities he applied to while participating in a college degree path program at his high school. Antuane visited several of these campuses but says Valpo had something special he was looking for. “I kind of just fell in love with Valpo and the culture. I knew it was the school for me,” Antuane says. “It was a smaller school, so I knew I could build relationships with my professors and get that one-on-one experience. Valpo also allowed me to explore my degree options before choosing something. Plus, it wasn’t too far from my home in Chicago. If needed, I could get home in an hour and a half to be with my family.” Ultimately, Antuane decided on electrical engineering as his major and fundamentals of business as his minor. As he became…
Valparaiso University to Compete in Annual Robotic Football Tournament
March 20 – Valparaiso, Indiana – Valparaiso University’s Robotic Football team is gearing up to compete in the 12th annual Collegiate Robotic Football Conference (CRFC) National Championship Tournament, set to take place on Saturday, April 5, at Saint Mary's College Angela Athletic Center in Notre Dame, Indiana. This highly anticipated event will bring together teams from universities across the country to showcase their engineering prowess through an innovative twist on traditional football — one where custom-built robots take the field instead of human athletes. Robotic football closely mirrors the traditional sport, with a few modifications. While scoring for touchdowns, kicks, two-point conversions, and field goals remains the same, teams can earn additional points for completed passes. Each game features eight robots per side, competing to advance down a 30-yard field. A comprehensive list of the official robotic football rules is available on the CRFC website. This annual competition is an exciting opportunity for students…
Finding Community and Purpose: Jeremiah Boyd’s ’28 First-Year Journey
As a second-semester freshman at Valparaiso University, Jeremiah Boyd ’28 has had much to discover. After uncovering his passion for computer engineering and innovation, his search for a top engineering school led Jeremiah to Valpo. “[After I applied], Valpo sent me a message – really quickly, actually,” he recalls. “They offered me a scholarship to come here. They made me feel like they really believed in me… So that kind of solidified my decision to come here.” That decision marked the beginning of an exciting and sometimes challenging journey of self-discovery. Photo by William Liu The transition to college life is a hallmark experience so many Valpo students and alumni reflect on as a pivotal moment in their personal and professional lives. Moving away from his home in Beech Grove, Indiana, meant stepping into a world of newfound independence, new responsibilities (like balancing laundry with hours of studying), and academic…
Valpo’s Science Olympiad Joins Campus and Community
Photo Credit: Valpo Science Olympiad Last month, Valparaiso University’s annual Science Olympiad event brought 25 teams from 16 schools across Indiana and Michigan to campus in the name of friendly competition. Each team – including 13 middle school and 12 high school teams – competed in several science-themed contests, from detailed lab experiments to spontaneous build events. For Science Olympiad president and Christ College Scholar Sarah Iselin ’25, her connection to this highly anticipated, student-run event is grounded in a lifelong history of learning and curiosity. “I was in Science Olympiad when I was in middle school. It was a fun extracurricular activity that wasn’t as on the spot as sports or math club. There’s a wide range of topics and I could really explore what I was interested in,” Sarah reflects. “I remember a lot of people on the team who maybe wouldn’t have been seen as straight-A kids.…
Registration Opens for Valparaiso University’s Beacon Engineering Academy
Registration for Valparaiso University’s Beacon Engineering Academy is now open! Camp will take place from June 22–28, 2025 and is open to students entering the 10th or 11th grade. This exciting, hands-on week will allow participants to explore the world of engineering through projects, activities, and team challenges. This year, the program offers two options: an overnight camp running from June 22–28 and a day camp from June 23–27.. Cost per-student is $800 for the overnight camp and $400 for the day-camp, with a limited number of partial scholarships available for qualifying participants. Led by expert engineering faculty and current undergraduate students, the overnight camp features four key components: introductions to various engineering fields, development of real-world skills, social activities, and collaborative large-scale engineering projects. Returning projects include robotics, biomechanics and prosthetics challenges, along with a new environmental engineering project.Participants are encouraged to have completed courses in physics or chemistry…
Emma Hickey ’26 Serves Joy and Teamwork as a Student-Athlete
For junior Emma Hickey ’26, being part of a team is as natural as going in for the dig. Hailing from a long line of family players and coaches, Emma has played volleyball since she was in grade school. Her skill as a libero, love for the sport, and desire to uplift others led Emma from her hometown of Granger, Indiana, to Valpo’s NCAA Division I volleyball program. Since her first match, she’s shone brightly and with humility — a true Beacon. Back when Emma was still making her college choice, that “Valpo feeling” sealed the deal when it came to competing at the collegiate level. “The recruiting process is not easy and the COVID-19 pandemic only made it more difficult,” Emma says. “But when I talked to [Head Coach Carin Avery], I loved how excited she was. Talking to her was so easy and comfortable, and when she explained…
Valparaiso University Alumni Help Pave the Way for Human Space Travel
Nicholas Skytland '02 Nicholas Skytland ’02 and David Baumann ’97, two mechanical engineering alumni from Valparaiso University, currently serve as the chief technologist and director of business development and the director of Nasa’s Human Research Program respectively. The two are currently working at the Johnson Space Center in Houston, Texas, and both look back at their time at Valpo as integral to their success. “I love Valpo so much,” Skytland said. “I think the things that make Valpo so unique are the decisions made around the campus — the walking campus, the fact that there’s a Chapel break throughout the day — that make the University stand out above the rest. I hope that students and prospective students recognize the uniqueness that Valpo has in a sea of uniformity everywhere else.” Skytland, who came from a family of race car drivers, knew he wanted to either build race cars or…
Valparaiso University Satellite Team Holds First High-Altitude Balloon Launch
On Wednesday, Nov. 6, 150 local elementary school students visited Valparaiso University to take part in the first of three high-altitude balloon launches sponsored by NearSpace Education’s Dream Big Program and organized by a partnership between the University Departments of Geography, Meteorology, and Environmental Science; Education; and College of Engineering. Students from the University’s meteorology department played a key role in coordinating the event, creating an engaging and educational experience for the children. “It was so much fun to work with the children who visited campus,” said Robert “RJ” Knoerr ’25, a meteorology major. “It was amazing to see all of the children’s reactions to the balloon launch and how enthused they were to be a part of it.” Students from Beiriger Elementary School and the South Central Community Schools Corporation visited the campus not only to witness the launch, but also conduct their own experiments. Young students prepared payload…