Cornell Engineering celebrated its fourth annual EPICC Awards on Oct. 21, recognizing faculty and staff whose work exemplifies the college’s core values of excellence, purpose, innovation, community, and collaboration.

“Our college is committed to developing the people needed to forge a better future, and that includes our faculty and staff,” said Lynden Archer, the Joseph Silbert Dean of Engineering. “Our EPICC values distinguish us and enable us to make a difference in our local, regional and global communities.”

This year, the program received 100 nominations from 141 community members. Erin Mulrooney, associate dean for administration, praised the community’s recognition and celebration of their peers. “Each of these nominations tells an inspiring story,” she said. “Together, these stories speak to the strength and power of the Cornell Engineering community.”

The 2025 EPICC Award winners in each category are:

Excellence

The Excellence Award honors individuals who produce distinctive results of exceptional quality through integrity, rigor and high ethical standards.

Susan Daniel, Fred H. Rhodes Professor of Chemical Engineering and William C. Hooey Director of the R.F. Smith School of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, was recognized for transformative leadership and vision. She developed a strategic plan that advances the department’s mission and fosters collaboration, teaching excellence and inclusion. Her colleagues describe her as a leader who inspires shared purpose and drives meaningful change.

Reeve Hamilton, assistant dean of marketing and communications, was honored for re-envisioning and reshaping communications at Cornell Engineering. He restructured the communications team into an integrated model, led a comprehensive rebranding effort and significantly increased top-tier media coverage. His creativity and collaborative approach have strengthened the college’s external reputation and internal community.

Purpose

The Purpose Award recognizes those who make a meaningful impact through leadership, service, and work that contributes to a more equitable and sustainable world.

Scott Campbell, executive director of engineering admissions, was honored for his 25-year commitment to opening pathways to engineering education. His leadership in creating the Bridges Scholars program has expanded opportunities for underrepresented students, reflecting the university’s founding principle of “…any person…any study.”

Lois Pollack, associate dean for research and graduate studies and the John Edson Sweet Memorial Professor, was recognized for her steady, transparent leadership across the college and the broader university community. Balancing multiple responsibilities, she brings clarity, fairness and empathy to her decision-making, embodying purpose in action.

Amie Prince, chief of staff, was honored for her strategic insight and dedication to advancing key initiatives. Her ability to analyze complex challenges, build relationships and develop creative solutions has strengthened the college’s long-term impact.

An honorary EPICC recognition was presented to Tom Pennell, education and outreach leader at the Cornell NanoScale Science and Technology Facility. He was recognized for expanding access to science and technology education.

Innovation

The Innovation Award honors those who demonstrate creativity, agility, and responsible risk-taking.

Tom King, senior director of facilities, and Rob Kurcoba, graphic designer, were recognized for transforming engineering spaces through visual design that celebrates research and identity. Their collaborative work in Tang Hall and other areas integrates research imagery and Cornell Engineering branding to create inspiring and engaging environments.

Joe Skovira, lecturer and director of the Master of Engineering program in the School of Electrical and Computer Engineering, was honored for reimagining project-based learning through his hands-on course on embedded operating systems. His mentorship and dedication to students have made innovation central to the learning experience.

Alexandra Werth, assistant professor in the Meinig School of Biomedical Engineering, received recognition for advancing engineering education research. Her integration of human-centered design and qualitative research methods into biomedical curricula has transformed how students approach creativity and problem-solving.

Community

The Community Award honors those who foster environments where all members feel they belong and can flourish.

The Undergraduate Experience Team from the Department of Materials Science and Engineering – Michele Conrad, undergraduate coordinator; Mike Thompson, director of undergraduate studies; and Kit Umbach, associate director of undergraduate studies – was recognized for revitalizing the student community through weekly gatherings that promote connection and belonging. Their efforts have created welcoming spaces that enrich the undergraduate experience across the college.

Cara Nuñez, assistant professor in the Sibley School of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, was honored for building a lab environment rooted in mentorship, transparency and inclusion. Through outreach to pre-college students and active support for diversity in research, she embodies the college’s community values.

Rebecca Tucker, administrative director in the School of Applied and Engineering Physics, was recognized for her compassionate leadership and commitment to professional growth. Her consistent communication, recognition of team milestones, and focus on individual development create a workplace defined by respect and care.

An honorary EPICC recognition was presented to Patricia Richard, custodian in Rhodes Hall, for her exceptional care and professionalism. Her dedication to maintaining welcoming and functional spaces demonstrates how every role contributes to the college’s shared success.

Collaboration

The Collaboration Award celebrates teamwork, inclusion and the belief that collective effort drives progress.

Chelsea Guster, finance specialist in Department of Earth and Atmospheric Sciences, was honored for steady leadership and mentorship during a period of departmental transition. Her communication skills and collaborative spirit have strengthened relationships and created an environment of mutual respect.

Sheri Minarski, administrative director for the Systems Engineering Program, was recognized for her leadership in fostering collaboration among faculty, staff and students. She has built strong partnerships with industry and developed new systems that support student success and program growth.

Alexandra Coso Strong, associate professor in the R.F. Smith School of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, was honored for guiding a large-scale curriculum transformation that brought together faculty around a shared vision. Her leadership and diplomacy helped secure major external support and advanced the department’s educational innovation.