GTSBE Magazine
Issue #1 2014 - 2015
The NSBE mission is:
“To increase the number of culturally responsible Black Engineers who excel academically, succeed professionally, and positively impact the community.�
A Message from the President 2nd Annual “A March for Education” and our 1st Annual STEAM Expo, both geared towards engaging the surrounding Atlanta community in STEAM related activities to create awareness and support higher education. We also successfully created a weekly chapter newsletter, “The Vector” to better communicate our chapter initiatives with our membership, and also centralize our methods of communication. Additional highlights include increasing our pre-collegiate initiatives and Maya Carrasquillo working more closely with Atlanta 2014-2015 GTSBE President Public Schools, bringing over 90 members to NSBE’s 41st Annual National Convention, establishing a Greetings Corporate Affiliates, GTSBE Advisory Board, and finally This past year for the Georgia Tech increasing our efforts internationalSociety of Black Engineers (GTS- ly by helping to charter a chapter in BE) has been an exciting one and Nigeria and adding an International additionally, has far surpassed ex- Chairperson to our Executive Board pectations for the year. The promise to continue engaging the chapter in of forward momentum for GTS- these efforts. BE is the backbone upon which we have been able to accomplish As a result of these initiatives we’ve so much this past year. With a vi- successfully been able to increase sion supporting innovation and the our overall membership numbers re-imagination of the traditional and more importantly, our memSTEM fields, our Chapter Execu- bership’s engagement this year. Our tive Board and dedicated members generation of engineers is different have been able to create a new plat- and as new leadership enters the chapter, it is important to remain form for our chapter to operate. attuned to these changing desires Building off these ideas, some of of our members. Moving forward, I the highlights include hosting two believe the chapter will continue to major STEAM events this year, the put an emphasis on chapter
sustainability and supporting individual innovation within the STEM fields. This year has been a transitional year for the chapter but with our new infrastructure that better supports our initiatives and goals, I believe there are no bounds to how high GTSBE will continue to climb and remain one of the leading chapters in the National Society of Black Engineers.
Maya Carrasquillo Maya Carrasquillo President, 2014-15 Georgia Tech Society of Black Engineers
CONTENTS
6. Chapter Executive Board
9. S.T.E.A.M. Lining the Pipeline
12. Pre Collegiate Initiative
16. Membership Spotlights
20. Freshmen Retention Program
21. International Impact
22. Membership Spotlights
26. Membership Breakdown
28. Salute to the Grads
30. Scholarship Recipients
34. Membership Spotlights
36. GTSBE - More than an Org
Thank You! T o O u r B eloved P a rt n e r s ! 38. Magazine Committee
39. Thank You to Our Partners!
Chapter Executive Board Administrative Zone
Maya Carrasquillo President
Austin McNair Vice President
Titilayo Joy Funso Secretary
D’Andre Waller Treasurer
Siham Adous Programs Chair
Marcus Mitchell Parliamentarian
Membership Zone
Henderson Johnson Membership Chair
Sierra Menzies LDR Chair
Joshua Ebin International Chair
Communications Zone
Steven Strouble Telecommunications Chair
Kamryn Harris Publications Chair
Chelsi Cocking Historian
Kyle Woumn Public Relations Chair
Shanice Saunders Conference Planning Chair
Finance Zone
Ayinna Onwuzuruigbo Finance Chair
Programs Zone
Michole Washington P.C.I. Co-Chair
Kendall Rankin T.O.R.C.H. Chair
Christopher Brown P.C.I. Co-Chair
Mark Miller Academic Excellence Chair
S.T.E.A.M. Lining the Pipeline Our Year at a Glance
With the big push of STEM education in our society, we often times overlook the importance of liberal arts to aid in the holistic development of our minds. When we discuss innovation within the science and technology disciplines, that creative way of thinking can only surface incorporating the arts into our thinking. Our generation of engineers is vastly different than generations before, and in order to continue to engage engineering students, we can no longer have a STEM mindset, but we need to have a STEAM mindset, and approach to addressing the problems facing the 21st century. The chapter vision for the year, S.T.E.A.M.-Lining the Pipeline, was designed to encourage our members to reimagine how they see their engineering disciplines and what all they have the potential to do within them. In an effort to support the passions of our membership, while creating a more sustainable infrastructure for the chapter itself, the theme for this year was designed to address the following: 1. Laying the Foundation
2. Pipeline Development
Enhancing our internal communication and functionality to create a more sustainable infrastructure for the chapter including internal board structure, internal board communication, and board to chapter communication.
Supporting all levels to enhance pipeline development by creating a more cohesive community within our chapter and building our relationship with professionals, graduate students and pre-collegiate students.
3. Release the STEAM Educating and engaging the membership and surrounding Atlanta community about what STEAM is, how it is applicable in everyday life, and how it can be applied to redefining what engineering and science looks like for each individuals’ future. With this in mind the overall goal for the year was to develop a new platform upon which the chapter could continue to develop, meeting the needs of current engineering students at Georgia Tech. With the shift in culture, and mentality of STEM in the 21st century, GTSBE needs to set the precedent for NSBE overall and how we can continue to grow the society. The hope is that with this changing mindset within the chapter, we will continue to produce the top engineers who can provide even more to the companies they work for and society as a whole.
Maya Carrasquillo Maya Elizabeth Carrasquillo President, 2014-15 Georgia Tech Society of Black Engineers
Corporate Networking Social
The 2nd Annual Corporate Networking Social afforded our members the opportunity to interact with corporate representatives from twelve companies in an informal, relaxed setting contrary to the structured environment of a career fair. As a result of the event being conveniently scheduled for both our corporate affiliates and GTSBE members in combination with hors d’oeuvres being served, we were able to successfully execute this event with a record attendance of 91 members
A March for Education 2
The purpose of A March for Education is to promote and empower African Americans to seek higher education. Over 200 students, professionals, and community members, including NSBE chapters from other universities, marched from Bethune Cookman Elementary School to the GT Campanile to symbolize the community’s need for matriculation through higher education. Margaret P. Daniel gave the keynote speech on the topic of African Americans in education. There was a Black Entrepreneur Expo to showcase local Black businesses and an Activities Fair, with fun science demonstrations for the younger children.
Pre Collegiate Initiative The Pre Collegiate Initiative (PCI) component of NSBE is focused on helping students, who may or may not have aspiration of pursuing a post-secondary education, gain exposure in STEM related fields. Within the structure of PCI there exists a sub structure called NSBE Jr. which is comprised of students in grades 9-12. The Georgia Tech Society of Black Engineers (GTSBE) has dedicated a significant amount of time and resources to ensure these students have a clear understanding of what a career in these fields entail. Our efforts have seen several NSBE Jr. Chapters thrive as others are in the process of becoming chartered and fully established.
Chamblee Charter High School The Chamblee High School NSBE Jr. chapter has been our strongest Pre Collegiate chapter thus far and has shown an ability to sustain itself outside of the realm of Georgia Tech. Thanks to their advisor and a dedicated group of students, Chamblee was recognized as the Region 3’s NSBE Jr. Chapter of the Year at our national convention in 2014. They have accompanied us to our fall regional conferences and national conventions and through their involvement; one of their students is now attending and thriving at Georgia Tech. Under the guidance of their advisor Mrs. Gantt, Chamblee continues to operate as a student led organization with hopes that their students will eventually attend a university and study some form of science or engineering. We hope to use the success of Chamblee High School as a model to help other interested high schools obtain the level of exposure and experience that would propel them into a STEM field.
Maynard H. Jackson High School In a joint effort with the Center for Education Integrating, Science, Mathematics, and Computing (CEISMC), GTSBE worked to build a NSBE Jr. Chapter at Maynard H. Jackson High School. The students in the summer program were given an introduction to NSBE and worked under a current GTSBE member in a research lab in order for them to see what the necessary skillset is to be a successful engineer. These students along with the support of their school have pulled together over 30 students to participate in their NSBE Jr. Program and are in the works of more STEM related projects with the help of GTSBE students.
Written by: Christopher Brown & Nicholas Jones
Grady High School Last semester, a teacher by the name of Ms. Swift and 6 students attended our PCI Retreat. Ms. Swift saw our retreat as an opportunity to make a difference in the lives of students at Grady High School. After participating in the activities, the students showed their eagerness to learn more about STEM. Following the retreat, GTSBE began to work with Grady to officially charter them as a NSBE Jr. Chapter. Thanks to the determination and enthusiasm of Ms. Swift, Grady has been chartered and we continue to work with them now in hopes that they continue to grow and prosper.
Westlake High School Westlake High School was once a strong NSBE Jr. Chapter until unforeseen changes occurred that saw a downturn in their chapter. Thanks to help of a former Westlake teacher and current assistant principal, the NSBE Jr. Chapter at Westlake High School is in the process of being resurrected. With a large interest group and full support of administration it is only a matter of time before Westlake is back to its original NSBE Jr. glory.
P.C.I Fall & Spring Visitation Days PCI Visitation Day is a day for NSBE Jr. members and other high school students to participate in different activities to learn about the Georgia Tech college experience, STEM fields, and our distinguished NSBE chapter! GTSBE members come out to conduct the activities and share their experiences and wisdom with the high schoolers.. Some of the activities include attending a GTSBE general body meeting, exploring our urban campus,and attending a freshman level college course!
GTSBE Day of Service
GTSBE members, lead by GTSBE’s freshman leadership component Lambda Delta Rho, made cards for breast cancer patients and survivors. They handed the cards out to those patients and survivors at the 2014 Making Strides against Breast Cancer Walk which was sponsored by General Mills and others. Later that day, the members prepared bags with information on community resources, local colleges and universities, and standardized test prep. As part of GTSBE’s 2014 A Walk for Education, they went door-todoor in a predominantly black neighborhood giving out the bags and promoting college and STEM fields.
Region III Fall Regional Conference
With 47 GTSBE members is attendance, Region III Fall Regional Conference provided a forum for discussion and information exchange between collegiate, pre-collegiate, alumni, and corporate representatives at the regional level. Within the three day weekend, Region III encouraged academic excellence and professional development through various technical and cultural workshops, competitions, career fairs, and graduate school fairs. The career fair, unique workshops and chapter chant competitions got the membership excited about national convention and about being a part of NSBE in general.
Leanna Parchment, B.S. Applied Math &
B.S. Biomedical Enginnering Classification: Senior Hometown: St. Elizatbeth, Jamaica
What does the NSBE mission mean to you?
What do you hope to do after you graduate?
In our generation, we can clearly see just how much we have to push for equality and I think the NSBE mission covers a part of that. We need to “increase the number of culturally responsible black engineers” to prove that we are equally intelligent in all fields including STEM. And I am proud to be able to help with this movement.
I will be working in the healthcare manufacturing industry. I would like to begin in operations and make my way into the business arena of a corporation.
Where have you co-opped, interned, or worked, and what did you enjoy most about the experience? I have interned for the past two summers at Pratt and Whitney in Middletown, CT. I was working in the Environmental, Health and Safety department and participated on the Ergonomics Team. My favorite part about the experience was being able to interact with all levels of the company. I worked directly with the manufacturing staff and attended daily business meetings with directors. I learned from all angles of the corporation which made for extremely dynamic summers. What type of leader are you? I am a straight-forward leader. I believe in transparency which eventually grows into trust. As a leader, you will want to have the trust from those working with you because that is the only way they will believe in what you have to say and the directions you will decide to take.
Do you have any study abroad experience? I studied abroad in the summer of 2012 at Oxford University in England. I had never been to Europe, but after that trip I see myself travelling outside of North America once a year. My conversations with others are more exciting and I can understand references that I couldn’t before. I am a much more aware person and feel a lot more ready to tackle it all. What research or projects have you been working on? I am currently working on a project for a Cell Biology class where we are looking at possible treatment options for patients with Bacterial Meningitis. However, we are limited to treating this disease within a part of the cell called the extra-cellular matrix. It is certainly challenging, but a fun challenge! How has GTSBE helped you achieve your professional and career goals? I have seen just how career driven Georgia Tech is as a university. However, students can still have a tough time getting a job or internship because of all the competition that is out there. GTSBE has made this process of developing my career 100 times easier because of the level of access they give me to companies and recruiters.
“As a black engineer-to-be, GTSBE is where you will feel the most support.” - LP
MEMBERSHIP SPOTLIGHTS
Xavier S. Galloway, B.S. Computer Science Classification: Junior Hometown: Norcross, GA
What does the NSBE mission mean to you?
What type of leader are you?
The mission and GTSBE means striving for greatness and success in EVERYTHING you do. For me that includes striving for success as a God-fearing son, brother, student and young professional. I am thankful for GTSBE being an integral part of my maturation.
I would say I am more of a servant type leader. My ability to empathize and hamonize with others allows me to put service to others before my self-interest. I also love meeting and including people in every decision my team will make. I will always present my team with resources to get a task done and do my part to contribute to our success.
What has been your favorite GTSBE moment? The first time I attended Fall Regional Conference with my chapter. At that moment I realized GTSBE is not only an organization but a big family as well. What are your professional and career goals? I have considered pursuing a career as a technology consultant, however upon graduation I intend to attend graduate school to receive my MBA. I’m going to spend my time during graduate school investing in my true passion and first love: music. I am going to own my own entertainment company and will inspire the world with my story through music. It is my ultimate goal and one I must accomplish. Where have you co-opped, interned, or worked, and what did you enjoy most about the experience? I interned with CareerBuilder.com twice. It was at this company where I decided to pursue higher education in computer science (my first term was before my senior year of high school). My major tasks included product QA, website wireframing, and company internal analyses. I loved that I was able to come in and make a contribution that left a positive effect on the company. I am now being considered by Boeing, Dell, Goldman Sachs and Comcast for a summer 2015 internshop position because of my connections through GTSBE.
“You won’t find a better organization that contributes to the academic and professional success of black engineers on campus.” - XSG
What research or projects have you been working on? Currently I am part of a group working on a better implementation of a web-based JavaFX tutorial. We are building the site using the Twitter bootstrap famework and are building a “To-Do List” JavaFX application that supplements the tutorial. We plan on making this tutorial open to students and others intersted in learning how to develop using JavaFX. How has GTSBE helped you achieve your professional and career goals? I wouldn’t be the type of networker I am without joining and taking advantage of the events GTSBE coordinates for its members. I have learned the right way to initiate and maintain relationships and communicate in a professional manner. Without knowing how to do this, I don’t think I’d be as marketable as I am when approaching companies.
Auston Kennedy, B.S. Industrial & Systems Classification: Sophomore
Engineering
Hometown: Atlanta, GA
What does the NSBE mission mean to you? One extremely crucial component of the NSBE mission is cultural responsibility. As an organization that serves a minority, it is important that NSBE is not divorced from the culture of the people it serves. It would lack passion if that were the case. Positively impacting the community is essential as well. It’s the responsibility of organizations with the reach and unique positioning of GTSBE to give back as much as possible to the disadvantaged community they serve.
What type of leader are you? I show consideration and appreciation for group members while remaining firm. I don’t hesitate to ask for help when I need it. I try to incorporate the opinions and suggestions of group members while also offering and accepting constructive criticism. All in all, I’d describe myself as a democratic leader.
What research or projects have you been working on? One of my ongoing projects is building the website for the African American Student Union. The site will be an online resource/hub for Black studnets at Georgia Tech to learn about and contribute to their community. The new site will also incorporate robust artistic and intellectual content from Georgia Tech and the surrounding community.
What are your professional/career goals? My career/professional goals include using my Industrial Engineering skillset outside of typical feilds such as manufacturing and supply chain. I want to levergae these skills to do service and building valuable connections between people. What has been your favorite GTSBE moment? My favorite GTSBE moment was the 2013-2014 end-of-theyear banquet. There, I saw how much the organization means to those who choose serve it and let it serve them. I hadn’t been involved with GTSBE much at all that school year. That event was my first glimpse at how impactful the chapter is. Through leadership and involvement in GTSBE, members have grown personally and professionally. The organization operates at a very high level, demanding exceptional leadership from board members and general members alike, bringing them closer together.
Where have you co-opped, interned, or worked, and what did you enjoy most about the experience? I worked at McDonald’s for the past two summers. I enjoyed my co-workers. They were hilarious.
“GTSBE can help you excel academically, succeed professionally, and positively impact the community.” - AK
MEMBERSHIP SPOTLIGHTS
Ta Nycia S. Wooden, B.S. Industrial & Systems Engineering Classification: Sophomore Hometown: Lithonia, GA linkedin.com/in/tanyciawooden
What does the NSBE mission mean to you?
What type of leader are you?
“To increase the number of culturally responsible Black engineers who excel academically, succeed professionally and positively impact the community.”
I am a participative leader. I accept input from one or more group members when making decisions and solving problems. I use the input from the group members when I make the final decision. I use this leadership style to encourage and motivate my group members.
The NSBE mission inspires me to strive for the very best. The mission reminds me that NSBE is a valuable resource in my academic and professional journey. What has been your favorite GTSBE moment? My favorite GTSBE moment would have to be when we held our second annual Women in STEM luncheon. It was amazing to see the eager faces of young girls as they listened to our current national chairperson, Sossena Wood, deliver her keynote. I am honored by the fact that I was able to help GTSBE put on an event that reached out and encourage young women to become and stay involved in STEM. What do you hope to do after you graduate? When I graduate with my degree in Industrial and Systems Engineering, I plan to work in the industry. I would like to eventually attain my masters of science in health systems. Where have you co-opped, interned, or worked, and what did you enjoy most about the experience? I currently work as a Resident Adviser for Georgia Tech’s Housing Department. This job has been a great experience and I have gained many valuable life skills. The thing that I most enjoy about this job is knowing that the relationships that I make with my residents have the potential to change their lives for the better.
“Students should be a part of GTSBE because this organization strives to create an environment where everybody can feel comfortable to learn and grow.” - TSW
Do you have any study abroad experience? I have not studied abroad yet, but I do want to eventually! I am thinking about doing the Pacific program in Fiji/Australia/New Zealand. How has GTSBE helped you achieve your professional and career goals? GTSBE has helped me achieve my goals by providing resources and workshops such as resume building workshops and company presentations.
Freshman Retention Program Lambda Delta Rho Lambda Delta Rho, LDR, is the freshman leadership component of GTSBE. An elected executive board consisting of first year students run the meetings, held weekly. Previous year’s LDR members and upperclassmen members of GTSBE help guide the meetings, but all decisions are made solely by the participants of LDR which include the Executive Board as well as the general body. LDR allows freshmen at Georgia Tech to develop leadership skills early in their college careers. LDR members are responsible for organizing community service projects, fundraising ventures, and planning the Annual LDR Date Auction and the GTSBE Leadership Awards Banquet.
This year’s LDR group had numerous events to challenge their leadership skills. Last semester, LDR participated in a breast cancer walk and other community service projects, including sending handmade cards to breast cancer patients and survivors. In November, they took the initiative to plan a speed dating event designed to educate students about good relationship tools and standards. In February, the members coordinated the Annual LDR Date Auction with the intentions of raising money towards a scholarship awarded to students of the incoming GTSBE freshman class. The idea of the scholarship was started by last year’s LDR, and two current LDR members were awarded a scholarship. In preparation for these events, the participants of LDR had to contact venues, manage money, communicate to different local establishments for sponsorships, and effectively coordinate schedules during the event.
Members gain valuable skills that are developed through creating and managing the various events held each year. Whether it is time management, communication, or leadership, LDR sets the foundation to allow freshmen students to develop these skills. It allows them to easily propel into college life and professional development as well. Written by: Abel Tesfaye & Renee Copeland
International Impact Rivers State University of Science & Technology
Thirty one weeks ago the Rivers State University of Science and Technology Society of Black Engineers was refounded by 13 Chemical Engineering Students. The Chapter had been dormant for many years until one of the members of the Georgia Tech Society of Black Engineers, TJ Funso, paid a visit to the university in Port Harcourt, Nigeria, to help the chapter re-established itself. The chapter is still in the very beginning stages of organization and development, but they are already growing quickly in number. The chapter’s president has expanded the group from the original 13 members to include an additional 27 members. Due to these developments, the Georgia Tech Society of Black Engineers amended their constitution to create a chapter level International Chair position. Joshua Ebin was elected as the new International Chair by the Chapter Executive Board. His goals for the RSUST chapter are: • To provide information and share resources on membership participation and chapter development to RSUST-SBE • To encourage RSUST-SBE continuity through structured freshmen activities and local high school outreach programs • To create a platform for the chapter’s professional development through an international buddy system, resume drives, mentorship and professional training/ conference opportunities. His hopes for the new group are that they continue to grow and impact their local community while upholding NSBE’s mission.
Written by: TJ Funso & Joshua Ebin
Tkeyah Anderson, B.S. Electrical Engineering Classification: Senior Hometown: Augusta, GA linkedin.com/in/andersontkeyah What does the NSBE mission mean to you?
What are your professional and career goals?
The NSBE mission to me means more than just a motivation of excellence but a commitment to foster personal and societal growth in every heart of individuals in the African AmericanBlack community. It is the commitment to inspire and intrigue the youngest minds to explore the world around them, to turn science fiction into reality. It is the duty to push the boundaries everyday and challenge the brains of the old, going beyond our imagined “limitations”. Finally, it is the passion to help those while helping yourself. Teach the younger children, especially the girls, collaborate with your peers, and service
My professional goals are to be able to work in the robotics or semiconductor industry. I hope to come back after working to attend graduate school and attain my Master’s degree. Eventually with enough experience I would like to become an Engineering consultant.
the community without hesitation.
What type of leader are you? I believe I am the type of leader who is willing to take charge when necessary, but rather like to see those around me grow in the process. I want those I serve to prove to me that they are able to handle the tough assignments when I cannot be available and to challenge me to strive to be even better in my own leadership. At times, I do feel like i can take on a heavy load, but I’ve personally learned to be more hands off and split up tasks, providing guidance when needed. However, I am not afraid to step up to the plate and give it my best swing at a project or duty handed to me. As motivation when taking on a higher position I always think to myself, “What good is a leader who cannot foster growth and produce better leaders from her peers?”. If I cannot inspire my peers to want to do exceptional work and be better in any aspect, whether it is mentally, emotionally, physically, or spiritually, I have failed my position.
What has been your favorite GTSBE moment? My favorite GTSBE moment has been my first Fall Regional Conference in Mississippi. It gave me a chance to travel and meet new faces and make connections. Most of all I was able to practice holding a conversation with recruiters at the career fair, something I was pretty nervous to do being that I was soft spoken.
What do you hope to do after you graduate? After I graduate and land a steady job I would love to travel through Europe, especially having a chance to visit Germany and Italy. I also want to visit Japan one day and be able to explore the annual International Robot Expo and allow my mind gawk at advancements in technology.
What research or projects have you been working on? Currently I am finishing up my senior design project to be complete in April 2015. The project consists of developing an aerial drone that will take a three step approach in assessing a person of interest. The approach consists of path planning, facial recognition, and tracking with obstacle avoidance. We hope to fully automate the system by the end of April. Our team aims to enter and win the Capstone competition with this entry.
How has GTSBE helped you achieve your professional and career goals? GTSBE has provided a direct pathway to several “big name” companies in my field who are readily looking for students and future graduates who have my similar background and motivation. They have provided the “inside scoop” on what most companies look for in their candidates, something that a regular workshop or class can’t teach or generalize.
“GTSBE is the gateway to channeling your passion directly to the employers, sharing your scientific inspirations to the community, stimulating your never-ending desire to challenge the norm, and improving the black community with several inventions at a time.” - TA
MEMBERSHIP SPOTLIGHTS
Keyona G. Wells, B.S. Civil Engineering Classification: Senior Hometown: Augusta, GA linkedin.com/in/wellskeyona What does the NSBE mission mean to you?
What research or projects have you been working on?
GTSBE means encouraging others to succeed with you. I believe true success is measured by one’s involvement in the success of others. GTSBE fosters a supportive environment that everyone needs to be successful.
Last semester, I began researching the history of earthmoving equipment as a requirement of my graduate course in construction industry history. I wrote a research paper entitled “History of Earthmoving Equipment: An examination of market conditions that led to new production introduction and evolution” and presented my findings in an oral presentation at the end of the semester. Since then, I have continued researching on my own and have delved more into the history of the major industry manufacturers in the U.S.
What has been your favorite GTSBE moment? My favorite GTSBE moment took place during Hump Day, a weekly Wednesday night study session. A high school student walked in needing help with pre-calculus and was able to get help from the tutors. I was amazed that news of the event had reached a K-12 audience, and that members of my chapter were willing and able to assist him. Sometimes it’s a small act of kindness that makes the biggest difference in a child’s future. What are your professional or career goals? My ultimate goal is to become a construction industry expert and take on a senior consulting role within a major firm in the industry. Where have you co-opped, interned, or worked, and what did you enjoy most about the experience? I interned with Caterpillar, Inc. as a technical marketing intern for two back-to-back semesters from January to August 2014. I will be returning to the company in August 2015 for a third internship. The most enjoyable part of my internship was learning that I could apply my engineering skills to professional roles other than engineering.
“Students should join because GTSBE is a powerhouse of social and professional involvement!” - KGW
What do you hope to do after you graduate? I plan to pursue a marketing career in the construction industry and start building my expertise so that I can achieve my ultimate goal. How has GTSBE helped you achieve your professional and career goals? GTSBE has helped me achieve my goals by providing resources and workshops such as resume building workshops and company presentations.
Gregory Williams, B.S. Computer Engineering Classification: Sophomore Hometown: Goldsboro, NC
What does the NSBE mission mean to you?
What do you hope to do after you graduate?
NSBE’s mission, “to increase the number of culturally responsible Black engineers who excel academically, succeed professionally and positively impact the community.”, speaks volumes to me. Everything GTSBE does embodies this as they have meetings and programs in place to develop individuals like myself in these areas. The mission epitomizes what I aim to do throughout my college career and is something I hope to uphold.
After I graduate, I currently plan on going directly to the workforce. I hope to work for a company in a software engineering role.
What has been your favorite GTSBE moment? My favorite GTSBE moment was being at the 2013 March For Education. It was a great experience marching for such a great cause. I loved participating in a unifying event which helped to spread the importance of blacks throughout the Atlanta community. What type of leader are you? I consider myself to be an innovative leader who loves being creative and finding ways to get things done efficiently. I am naturally laid back, but when needed, I know how to step up to take initiative in order for tasks to be completed.
Do you have any study abroad experience? Unfortunately, I do not have any study abroad experience. However, studying abroad is something I would recommend to every student! I have heard nothing but great things from people who have had the experience, and everyone I’ve talked has said it is truly rewarding! What research or projects have you been working on? I am currently working in the Human Automation Systems Lab as an Undergraduate Research Assistant. My research group’s project focuses on finding a way for people suffering from debilitation neurological disorders to be motivated to undergo their physical therapy. To accomplish this, we are designing a 3-D arm robot and using Java through Eclipse to program tablet games to be played by it for patients undergoing physical therapy. How has GTSBE helped you achieve your professional and career goals? GTSBE has helped me in many ways. It has helped me to achieve some of my professional and career goals by providing me with the information, as well as, opportunities needed to advance forward. Also, GTSBE connects me to older students who I can look up to and seek advice from.
“Students should choose to be a part of GTSBE because it’s an experience like no other; it helps prepare you for the workforce and presents you with opportunities you can’t find anywhere else.” - GW
MEMBERSHIP SPOTLIGHTS
Brittany S. Brown, B.S. Civil Engineering Classification: Senior Hometown: Reynolds, GA
What does the NSBE mission mean to you?
What type of leader are you?
The NSBE mission to me is all about providing a minority engineering community for students and adults at all levels for the betterment of the global community while maintaining a cultural legacy.
I lead by listening. I take high value in the thoughts and goals of those who follow me. As a leader, I provide the umbrella goal or the skeleton for the plan that is intended to be followed, but the input of my followers is what makes up most of the body so that everyone is invested and agrees on how to move forward.
What has been your favorite GTSBE moment? My favorite GTSBE moment was volunteering for the Pre-College Initiative Visitation day during the Fall 2014 semester. I loved being able to listen to the ideas and plans of the high school students during the touring session. There was a great satisfaction in being able to address their concerns and provide guidance.
What are your professional or career goals?
What do you hope to do after you graduate?
What research or projects have you been working on?
After graduation, I will be pursuing a graduate degree, preferably a PhD in Environmental Engineering.
Currently, I am preparing to do research at the University of Wisconsin - Madison. I will be working in a lab studying major groups of uncultivated bacteria important to nutrient cycling in lakes.
Where have you co-opped, interned, or worked, and what did you enjoy most about the experience? In 2012, I interned with the Naval Surface Warfare Center, Dahlgren Division. I served as a Safety Engineer and was responsible for the initial draft of a safety hazard log for a marine radar. I enjoyed working in an interdisciplinary field that isn’t as common to the engineering community.
“Students should join GTSBE because it is a one-of-a-kind minority family of like-minded engineering students able to provide one with the resources and support that is necessary to succeed.� - BSB
I am pursuing a research career that is particularly focused on environmental engineering. While performing research, I desire to become a full professor at a notable institution in order to train the next generation of engineers.
GTSBE MEMBERSHIP BREAKDOWN Major Breakdown Computational Media (2) Material Science Eng. (4) Biology (5)
Economics (2) Industrial Design (1) Undecided Eng. (1)
Environmental Eng. (7)
Mechanical Eng. (21)
Business Administration (8) Architecture (3)
Electrical Eng. (17)
Computer Science (12) Biomedical Eng. (16) Computer Eng. (12) Industrial Eng. (16) Aerospace Eng. (12) Civil Eng. (13)
Chemical Eng. (13)
Membership Statistics
208 paid members nationally 162 members present at first general body meeting: 46 Freshmen 31 Sophomores 39 Juniors 46 Seniors & up
Conference Attendance
36 GTSBE Members | 11 PCI Students
81 GTSBE Members | 16 PCI Students
Region III Fall Regional Conference Attendance
NSBE41 - 41st National Convention Attendance
Active vs. Inactive Members Nationally, we have 208 members paid and registered in the National Society under our chapter's name. However, we have 162 members who actively show their support to the Georgia Tech chapter by helping out with, and attending, daily and weekly events!
Active Members Usually comprised of undergraduate level students who actively participate in chapter events weekly.
78% active Inactive Members Usually comprised of Master's students and PhD candidates who cannot make weekly meetings or dedicate time to chapter events.
Designed by: Chelsi Cocking GTSBE Historian, 2014 -15 Georgia Tech Society of Black Engineers
Georgia Tech Society of Black Engineers
@GTSBE
@GTSBE
Salute to the Grads! Jazmine Brite, 23 - B.S. Mechanical Engineering Hometown: Atlanta, GA
What are your plans post graduation? I will be continuing my career in the Automotive Industry before attending graduate school. How has your involvement in GTSBE impacted your time at Tech? The opportunity for continual professional development while building relationships with my peers has been invaluable to my experience at Georgia Tech.
Maya Carrasquillo, 22 - B.S. Environmental Engineering Hometown: Albany, NY
History Minor
What are your plans post graduation? I will be attending the University of South Florida in the fall as a Doctoral candidate in Environmental Engineering as a National GEM Fellow, sponsored by Intel Corporation. For the next few years I plan to look more closely at the intersection between environmental sustainability from the lens of education and religion, specifically the applications of water reuse and its varied implications in different religious communities. How has your involvement in GTSBE impacted your time at Tech? GTSBE has meant everything to me. From experiences, to friendships, I would not be the person I am today if it were not for GTSBE. Being more grassroots in nature, GTSBE provides students, and has provided me, with unique leadership experiences that delve into various areas that are relevant to professional development and everyday life skills. I’ve been able to learn so much about myself, my leadership abilities, and have been afforded opportunities I would not have had being involved in any other organization. I am so very proud and blessed to have had the opportunity to serve in top leadership roles for the chapter and I am excited to see younger students continue on our chapter legacy and continue to grow as individuals through NSBE as I have during my college career. GTSBE and the people I’ve met are truly like a family and I know the bond I share with these people will last well beyond my time as an undergraduate.
Bre’Ana Deen, 22 - B.S. Computer Science Hometown: Woodbridge, VA
What are your plans post graduation? After graduation, I will be staying in Atlanta for the summer looking to get involved with educational outreach initiatives. In September, I’m relocating to Seattle, WA to begin working full-time at Microsoft as a Software Engineer. How has your involvement in GTSBE impacted your time at Tech? The network that NSBE has provided has been very beneficial for me. It is great to be part of a school-wide, region-wide and nation-wide network of black engineers.
Jacqueline Harris, 21 - B.S. Biochemistry Hometown: Kennesaw, GA
What are your plans post graduation? I plan to attend medical school at Vanderbilt University School of Medicine beginning in the fall. How has your involvement in GTSBE impacted your time at Tech? My involvement in GTSBE at Tech has been very fun and played a strong role in cultivating the great friendships that I have today. From participating in LDR as a freshmen to going to nationals in Anaheim this spring, GTSBE has helped me become more confident in myself and create my own personal brand.
Erin Lightfoot, 22 - B.S. Industrial Engineering Hometown: Augusta, GA
What are your plans post graduation? I have accepted a full-time position with Amazon Fulfillment as an area manager. How has your involvement in GTSBE impacted your time at Tech? GTSBE was an immediate source of mentoring from upperclassmen when I was a freshman. The organization helped to create the pathway to my career. It’s also be a source of lots of fun memories with friends, professors, and career professionals.
Mark Miller, 22 - B.S. Mechanical Engineering Hometown: Suwanee, GA
What are your plans post graduation? Obtaining a Master’s Degree at the Woodruff School of Mechanical Engineering at the Georgia Institute of Technology, with a concentration and research in Manufacturing. How has your involvement in GTSBE impacted your time at Tech? My involvement with GTSBE has truly helped me increase my network both socially and professionally, and serves as my home away from home. I hope to stay closely involved with GTSBE post-graduation.
Joel Nortey, 21 - B.S. Biomedical Engineering Pre-Medicine Minor Hometown: Gastonia, NC
What are your plans post graduation? I will most likely be taking a gap year and participating in the CityYear program under AmeriCorps. After that I will be applying to medical school. How has your involvement in GTSBE impacted your time at Tech? My time here at Tech wouldn’t have been as great as it was without GTSBE. Surrounding yourself with people like you doing the same things your doing builds a sense of community and makes your time here at Tech a lot easier. I was able to find friends in my major and take classes with them, and also find mentors when I was a freshman who helped shape the path I took throughout my time here at GT. It really is one of the best organizations that I’ve been a part of. Data Collection by: Keyona Wells
GTSBE Scholarship Recipients CONGRATULATIONS to the following GTSBE Members for winning the GTSBE Hump Day Wednesdays Scholarship! Hump Day is a weekly study hall that provides an academic forum for students to fellowship, work and ask questions to tutors and their peer leaders, and is lead by our Academic Excellence Chair, Mark Miller. The students who attended the event most frequently each won $100.00 scholarships sponsored by GTSBE! Teferi Taylor Aisha Williams Sanquesha McGruder Ayinna Onwuzurigbo Lonnie Williams Jr. Nelson Raphael Keyona Wells Asha Harris Justin Hicks Myles Everett Nigel Campbell Mynah Holloway
oC ngratulations!
Nationals Prep Meeting
The Nationals Prep Meeting with Southern Company ensured that the 61 members present were knowledgeable and prepared for the career fair and networking opportunities that would be available at National Convention. The workshop began with a presentation by Southern Company that reviewed elevator pitches, resumes and interviewing tips. The second half of the workshop had the room split into small groups where resumes were reviewed one on one. Following that, the members were also encouraged to build their profile and upload their resume online in the NSBE Careers web portal.
1st Annual S.T.E.A.M. Expo!
S.T.E.A.M. Expo focused on showcasing, through demonstrations and mini-competitions, the ways in which engineering and technology complement the arts. Often times, these fields are viewed as totally opposite, but the expo showed younger children how various technologies and computer programs allow for the creation of art. It was definitely a success; over 100 students, parents, and local professionals participated. Students were shown programs where they can create video games and music. As an added bonus each program used was made available for all of the participants to continue their exploration and learning.
Black Women In STEM!
GTSBE hosted the 2nd annual Paving the Way: Black Women in STEM Luncheon. The luncheon connected female high school and middle school students in the Atlanta area with current females studying and working in STEM fields, in order to encourage them to pursue or continue their pursuit in a STEM related field. This year’s focus was on the importance of self expression through innovation and art. We had over 90 PCI, collegiate, and professional black females in attendance. The program involved a research exhibit, followed by spoken word, musical performances, and dances all focused on the importance of self expression and female empowerment. This year, we were also honored to have Soseena Wood, the National Chairperson of the NSBE, join us as our keynote speaker.
Raianna C. Brown, B.S. Industrial & Systems Enginnering Classification: Sophomore Hometown: Stone Mountain, GA linkedin.com/in/raiannabrown
What does the NSBE mission mean to you?
Do you have any study abroad experience?
The NSBE mission statement speaks to me in a way which touches my passion for giving back and serving my community to help other African Africans have access to priceless opportunities and resources. I believe mentorship is the best way to reach those younger than us, especially for minority communities. NSBE and GTSBE provide both mentorship for the collegiate students and gives the collegiate members an opportunity to provide mentorship to those younger than them. I am dually enrolled at Emory University and Georgia Institute of Technology, two predominately white institutions and I can’t help but notice the scarcity of African American students at both institutions. When I walk into a classroom or just campus in general, it no longer surprises me to see few or no people that look like me. It is my goal to someday make the presence of African Americans at predominately white institutions more of a societal norm.
No, however I will be traveling to Italy this summer to study and perform with a professional dance company. Prior to graduating from Tech I plan to participate in at least one study abroad program.
Where have you co-opped, interned, or worked, and what did you enjoy most about the experience? This past summer I was a Lean Journey Intern at CMB Global Partners LLC. I thoroughly enjoyed working for this company. I got hands-on experience with a Single Minute Exchange of Dies, a ISYE system which is used to drastically reduce the time it takes to complete an equipment changeover, with Sunny Delight. All of the hands-on work I did was invaluable for showing me just how much can be done with my ISYE degree and also gave me a great glimpse into what I have to look forward too.
What has been your favorite GTSBE moment? My favorite GTSBE moment occurred at the Super Science Day that AASU put on in partnership with GTSBE. The whole day was full of wonderfully endearing moments; nonetheless, my favorite moment seeing a Kindergarten age girl go up to a female Chemical Engineering major and ask her to teach her about density. Although it may seem like such a small moment, the excitement in the young girls’ eyes was priceless. She was completely enamored, not just by the science in front of her, but also by the person teaching her about it. As an African American woman at a predominately white and predominately male school, I fully realize the importance of role models who look like me. GTSBE and all of the volunteers from GTSBE at the event helped to create this moment and others like it. What are your professional or career goals? I want pursue a career as a professional dancer and to have my own dance company. While at the same time pursuing my career as an Industrial Engineer focused in Health Systems or Humanitarian Logistics. My biggest aspiration for my Industrial Engineering degree is to help people in some way whether it be through making our hospitals more efficient by focusing on Health Systems or improving the efficiency of Aid Resources like FEMA and the Red Cross by focusing in Humanitarian Logistics, or something else that perhaps I haven’t thought of yet.
“Students should choose to be a part of GTSBE because GTSBE provides not only professional and educational mentorship, but also provides opportunities for students to create invaluable relationships with their peers while working to improve their community. ” - RCB
MEMBERSHIP SPOTLIGHTS
Nelson A. Raphael, B.S. Electrical Engineering Classification: Freshman Hometown: Decatur, GA Former Chamblee Charter High NSBE Jr. member What does the NSBE mission mean to you?
What type of leader are you?
“To increase the number of culturally responsible Black The NSBE mission means striving to do your best in every endeavor, while also helping those around you. Being able to be successful, while at the same time making sure the same beneficial opportunities you received along your journey are available for those following in your footsteps.
I am a leader, who takes charge but tries to take into account all of the different factors and aspects of the situation. I want to make sure the lines of communication are always open between myself and my team members , while making sure our goals are met on time. I am very serious about my work, however I am a patient person who is willing to reasonably work through challenging or unanticipated issues.
What has been your favorite GTSBE moment? My favorite GTSBE moment possibly was while I was still a part of the Pre -collegiate initiative chapter at my high school (Chamblee Charter High School) and I attended Nationals with the GTSBE chapter. When I went to the opening session in Nashville, Tennessee the energy was amazing. When I heard so many people recite the NSBE mission in unison with such passion and pride I was truly filled with emotion. What do you hope to do after you graduate? I hope to be not only an influential member of my local community, but also a well respected engineer. I hope to pursue and earn a doctorate in electrical engineering after graduating from my undergraduate studies. Once I have achieved my career goals I hope to become a professor or teacher and raise a family of my own. What are your professional or career goals? My career goal is to become a system and controls engineer for Volkswagen, BMW, Mercedes Benz, or Audi. Then hopefully reach out to under developed areas of continents such as Africa or Asia and create or build technical schools that give under privileged people high value skills, which will attract a better job market and eventually improve the condition of the region.
“The type of impact GTSBE will have on your entire life is immeasurable and for you to miss out on this experience would be doing yourself a huge disservice.” - NAR
Do you have any study abroad experience? I have not studied abroad yet, but I do want to eventually! I am thinking about doing the Pacific program in Fiji/Australia/New Zealand. How has GTSBE helped you achieve your professional and career goals? GTSBE has provided me with a multitude of networking and profesional development opportunities. It has allowed me as a collegiate chapter member to participate in the PCI committee and go back to my previous high school, where I can assist the adviser and students there to make sure they get as much out of the experience as I did.
GTSBE
More than an Organization The Georgia Tech Society of Black Engineers is more than an organization. It is a family, a pillar of the black community at the Georgia Institute of Technology, and a platform for personal growth through leadership and service. For many black students at the Institute, GTSBE provides their first collegiate leadership and involvement experience through its freshman leadership component, Lambda Delta Rho (LDR). Members of LDR fundraise and provide social and service programming with the oversight of a GTSBE board member, the LDR chair. The program is hugely impactful and very, very necessary, as it keeps freshmen invested not only in GTSBE, but in the larger minority community because LDR is, in part, a social hub. At LDR’s events, students get to help make a difference for themselves and others and see their friends and peers. In this way, there is a concrete connection between the success of the community and the individual success of the young leaders and professionals who participate. This is what LDR does for freshmen and what GTSBE does for all black students who choose to participate.
The GTSBE executive board is where our students learn and grow in one of the most demanding and most rewarding leadership experiences on campus. With a membership of over 150, a robust and ever-growing portfolio of events to coordinate, a diverse and ever-growing cadre of corporations to build and maintain relationships with, and two annual conferences to prepare for, the GTSBE board stays exceptionally busy. It has an extremely high standard of excellence to meet, with the bar getting set higher and higher each year. Despite the burden of leadership being placed on its shoulders, the board never elevates itself above the general members. The two segments work together to make GTSBE one highly effective but familial body with shared goals and values.
Being a Black student, part of a very small minority, at a school like Georgia Tech is at times exceptionally difficult. We face unique challenges where the academic rigor of our institution and the disadvantages of minority intersect. We rely on organizations such as GTSBE to be a banner for recruiting black students and for showing corporations, organizations on and off campus, and the Institute itself that we are intelligent, motivated, and capable of being productive global citizens.
All these factors make GTSBE much more than just an organization, but more like its own unique family that’s always working to overcome its own set of challenges to serve the community. Written by: Auston Kennedy & Ta Nycia Wooden
Magazine Committee To the members of the first GTSBE Magazine committee: Thank you so much for your dedication and hardwork! We have completed an almost impossible task. Because of your drive and commitment to the last minute tasks assigned to you, we, as a team, were able to complete this 40 page magazine in 3 weeks! In has truly been my honor to serve as the leader of this committee and have you as part of my team. Without you this publication would not exist today! I would like to thank you so much, from the bottom of my heart, for helping me implement my vision. When I entered the Chapter Executive Board last year aa Historian, part of my platform was to create a tangible publication for our corperate sponsors. A publication that will allow them to understand exactly what they were putting their money into, and to understand that it is not going to waste. Because of you, this publication has now been born as the 1st annual GTSBE Magazine! GTSBE is more than an organization, it is a family, and thank you for bringing this family one step closer to success! You have my eternal gratitude. Yours truly, -Chelsi Alise Cocking Creator & Editor-In-Cheif of GTSBE Magazine GTSBE Historian, 2014-15 B.S. Computational Media - Georgia Tech ‘17 The hard working members of this year’s - the first ever - GTSBE Magazine Committee: • • • • • • • • • • • •
Auston Kennedy - B.S. Industrial & System Engineering - Sophomore - akennedy32@gatech.edu Keyona Wells - B.S. Civil Engineering - Senior - w.keyonag@gmail.com Ta Nycia Wooden - B.S. Industrial & System Engineering - Sophomore - twooden3@gatech.edu Renee Copeland - B.S. Biomedical Engineering - Sophomore - renee.copeland23@gmail.com Christopher Brown - B.S. Mechanical Engineering - Senior Nicholas Jones - B.S. Mechanical Engineering - njones74@gatech.edu Abel Tesfaye - B.S. Aerospace Engineering - Freshman - tesmeles@gmail.com Xavier Galloway - B.S. Computer Science - Junior - xgalloway25@gmail.com TJ Funso - B.S. Industrial & Systems Engineering - Junior Brenna Fromayan - bfromayan3@gatech.edu Ayinna Onwuzuruigbo - B.S. Chemical Engineering - Sophomore - ayinnaonwu@gmail.com Steven Stouble - M.S. Human Computer Interaction - 2nd Year
Thank You! T o O u r B eloved P a rt n e r s ! The Georgia Tech Society of Black Engineers has some of the most loyal and active corporate affiliates. Without our beloved partners, many of our programs and initiatives would cease to exist and we would not be able to influence our community in such a positive way.
THE 1ST ANNUAL GEORGIA TECH SOCIETY OF BLACK ENGINEERS MAGAZINE