Engineering and Computer Science groups honour their own

“Concordia University gave me the confidence to pursue my ambitions,” said Pratt and Whitney Canada executive Maria Valerio as she accepted the Faculty of Engineering and Computer Science’s Award of Distinction.

Alumna and Pratt and Whitney Canada executive Maria Valerio. | Photos by Concordia University

On February 28, Valerio was just one of the individuals honoured by the Faculty during their Engineering Week awards ceremony.

The Dean’s Office, Engineering and Computer Science Alumni Chapter and students collaborated on a joint awards ceremony. In addition to the Award of Distinction, recipients of Teaching Excellence and Student Leadership awards were also celebrated. The event attracted representatives from all constituencies.

Dean of Engineering and Computer Science Robin Drew, award recipient Lyes Kadem and Martin Pugh, who presented the award.

Professors Lyes Kadem (Mechanical and Industrial Engineering) and Ted Stathopoulos (Building, Civil and Environmental Engineering) each received a 2010-11 Teaching Excellence Award for their efforts to give students the best possible learning experience. 

Jad Saleh, past president of the Concordia chapter of Engineers Without Borders was honoured for his decision to give back — converting scholarship money he received into the Jad Saleh Award for future students. The eight students who make up the executive of the Faculty’s student association, the Engineering and Computer Science Association, all received awards for excellence in leadership, as well.

Dean Drew, award recipient Ted Stathopoulos and Mohammed Zaheeruddin, who presented the award.

Accepting the Award of Distinction, which recognizes Concordia alumni who have made an exceptional contribution to the advancement of their profession and of society as a whole, Valerio told the audience that Concordia was a strong influence in her formative years. Of the many things learned at Concordia, she recalled how sharing classes with teachers and fellow students from countries around the world taught her how to interact with people from various cultures.

These skills served her well in her career at a global company. After beginning her career at Pratt and Whitney Canada in 1987, Valerio is now vice-president of operations and customer service.

Related links:
•    Faculty of Engineering and Computer Science
•    Engineering and Computer Science Alumni Chapter
•    Engineering and Computer Science Association
•    Engineers Without Borders Concordia