Three faculty within the Artie McFerrin Department of Chemical Engineering at Texas A&M University celebrated promotion in an afternoon reception on Friday, Sept 5th, 2014.
Dr. Victor Ugaz, formerly an associate professor of chemical engineering, is now a professor. Ugaz said, “Having been born and raised in Texas, I feel honored every day to be a faculty member at Texas A&M. It is amazing to be able to work with such incredibly talented students and colleagues.” Ugaz joined the department in 2003.
Dr. Katy Kao, formerly an assistant professor of chemical engineering, is now an associate professor. Kao joined the department in 2008. Kao said, “I look forward to continued growth and research opportunities.”
Dr. Ray Mentzer, formerly a lecturer, is promoted to senior lecturer. Mentzer said, “In my second career, after 28+ years with ExxonMobil, I receive a lot of fulfillment teaching courses in the department and working with a half-dozen, bright graduate students [each] pursuing their Ph.D. with the Mary Kay O’Connor Process Safety Center.” Mentzer joined the department in 2008.
Photos of the event can be found here.
The Artie McFerrin Department of Chemical Engineering, established in 1940 has consistently been a leader in chemical engineering education in the United States. This trend continues today. According to the U.S. News & World Report, the undergraduate program ranked 11th among public institutions in 2014 and the graduate program ranked 17th among public institutions in 2013. Throughout its history and still today, Texas A&M Chemical Engineering is known for educating the highest quality of students, producing engineers who are well prepared for industry upon graduation.