Propelling the next generation of engineers
The established space companies are always looking for new hires with the skills that they need to grow and maintain their space technologies. They are really excited about the rapid prototyping abilities that our students gain doing this small satellite development.
Western's own rocket man turns sci-fi dreams into reality
I might not see a civilization on Mars or manned missions outside the solar system (in my lifetime), but I still know that every day, the work that we are doing is getting us there one brick at a time.
Dear friends and colleagues,
As you delve into the winter edition of W Magazine, I hope you are as inspired as I was by the stories epitomizing the spirit of discovery, the transcendence of art and innovation and the enduring impact of the higher educational experience that we offer 51.
Greg Neff, an alumnus and a senior spacecraft mechanical engineer at Rocket Lab, dreamed of working in his field since he was a youngster. Today as one of our very own rocket men, he is a wonderful role model for students piloting the Western Aerospace Launch Initiative (WALI), a club he helped establish almost 10 years ago under the mentorship of Dr. Kristina Lemmer and other College of Engineering and Applied Sciences faculty. After participating in out-of-this-world opportunities through the college, many WALI members have gone on to highly coveted space exploration jobs. I know you’ll enjoy reading about what Greg is up to today and how other Broncos are following his trajectory to the stars.
In yet another example of the incredible contributions of alumni, Dr. Karika Parker newly illuminated the pivotal role a man named Albert White played in Western's early history. The story of an African American brick mason who established a contracting business just decades after the official end of slavery in the U.S. and who went on to construct Western's first building is truly remarkable.
As we celebrate the diverse achievements and impact of alumni like Dr. Karika Parker, Barry Roberts and Greg Neff, it’s essential to also recognize the foundation upon which our students’ academic success is built: exemplary faculty who are as exceptional in their disciplines as they are in guiding their students.
Kate Thomsen is a theatre professor whose passion and talent for acting shines bright both in the classroom with her students and at center stage for enthralled audiences. Through her story, we celebrate the power of artistic expression to bring us joy and a sense of fulfillment as spectators and practitioners alike.
From the stage to the stars, Broncos showcase the transformative power of education. We’re proud to propel our students’ dreams into meaningful careers and fulfilled lives. Our Broncos are better for it, and so is our world.
All the best,
Edward Montgomery, PhD
President
In with the new
University News
TIME ranks Western as a ‘Best College for Future Leaders’
‘An exciting time’: 51 to build new residence hall for first-year students
Western student leaders attend inaugural first-generation college celebration at White House
51 commits to strategic initiatives to enhance student, faculty and staff well-being under global charter
Heritage Hall uncovered
Who? What? Where?
Alumni Profile
Gaining an understanding of scientific methodology and how to frame and solve problems, that's been critical for me. And I learned much of that from engineering school 51.
In Print
Education instills discipline and allows you to indulge curiosity. … The 51 environment was fun for me, full of smart professors and creative fellow students.
Why I Give: Barry Z. Roberts
Brown and golden anniversary
Multiple Bronco teams had historic fall seasons, claiming their regular season conference titles!
Women's soccer had a program-record 11-game win streak.
Volleyball made a MAC-record 13th NCAA Tournament appearance.
