Department celebrates fall 2025 outstanding students, teaching assistants

Dec. 19, 2025
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A large group of people in different colored clothing pose for a photo.

Engineering faculty honored 11 undergraduate seniors, eight graduate students, and eight teaching assistants with awards recognizing exceptional academic and research performance.

On Nov. 18, SIE faculty presented three undergraduate seniors, one graduate student and one teaching assistant with awards recognizing exceptional academic and research performance. The nominations were followed by a luncheon hosted at the University of Arizona Student Union Memorial Center.

“The students we’re celebrating today have truly risen to the top,” said David W. Hahn, Craig M. Berge Dean of the College of Engineering. “They’ve distinguished themselves through their commitment in the classroom, their engagement beyond it, and their collaborative spirit in helping elevate those around them.”

Each student received a framed award and a university gift bag to commemorate their academic career. Nominating professors made short speeches about their outstanding students.

Access the event photo gallery.

Outstanding seniors

Industrial engineering: Tiffany Hudgins

“Tiffany embodies everything great about industrial engineering. Her leadership in professional organizations and her strong work in the classroom have truly stood out.” – Hannah Budinoff, assistant professor in systems and industrial engineering.

Systems engineering: Matthew Calderon

Engineering management: Lauren Froberg

“Lauren is truly exceptional. She approaches every task with excellence, and it’s wonderful to celebrate her hard work. After completing two internships with McCarthy Building Companies, she’ll be joining their team full-time." – Michael Kwinn, systems and industrial engineering professor of practice.

Outstanding graduate student

Systems and industrial engineering: Yeshuai He

“Yeshuai is an exceptional graduate student and an even more impressive engineer. Wherever he chooses to focus his talents, his future will undoubtedly be bright." – Jianqiang Cheng, associate professor of systems and industrial engineering.

Outstanding teaching assistant

Systems engineering: Savanna Silva

“Savanna is one of the finest teaching assistants I’ve had the pleasure of working with. She is creative, intelligent and deeply committed to helping our students learn and succeed." – Michael Kwinn, systems and industrial engineering professor of practice.