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In recognition of her exceptional research work and leadership both inside and out of the classroom, Alyssa Willmarth is the Outstanding Senior for Civil Engineering.

"Alyssa demonstrated strong leadership as an active member of Tau Beta Pi (the engineering honors society) and Society of Women Engineers. She led or participated in these clubs' service activities, including engaging with K-12 STEM outreach events and volunteering at Teen and Kid Closet where she provided clothing to foster youth," said Chair and Professor Mark Muszynski in his award announcement.

Alyssa says her greatest accomplishment during her undergraduate time has been contributing to research projects related to water quality under Associate Professor Kyle Shimabuku. "Finding that high-burn severity organic matter in water may be more adsorbable compared to low burn intensity organic matter, that makes a difference," she said. Because of this work, she is a co-author on multiple conference papers and presentations.

In addition to her academic excellence—having maintained a 3.98 GPA and always making the President’s List—she worked as an intern at Osborn Consulting, where she contributed to stormwater management and water resource projects.

She will continue to do research in graduate school. She plans to earn her Master of Science in Environmental Engineering at the University of Washington while completing a research thesis.

"Alyssa was also accepted to other top Environmental Engineering programs including Stanford, University of California Berkeley, and University of Colorado Boulder," Muszynski said.

Congratulations, Alyssa!