NCAT announces inaugural recipients of NAPA Road Scholars Endowment

The National Center for Asphalt Technology at Auburn University (NCAT) and the National Asphalt Pavement Association (NAPA) have a long-standing partnership dedicated to advancing asphalt research and education. Through the establishment of the NAPA Road Scholars endowment, more than 50 companies and individuals have generously contributed $3 million to support NCAT graduate students in their academic journeys.  

These funds provide crucial resources for students to gain hands-on experience and conduct cutting-edge research alongside NCAT’s team of experts.  

The NAPA Road Scholars Fellowship Committee has announced the inaugural recipients of the endowment, providing support for tuition and other fees. 

The 2025 NAPA Road Scholars are: 

• Liz Valenca 

• Julianna Wood 

• Amir Jafarmilajerdi 

• Zane Hargett 

• Cameron Derryberry 

The program helps cultivate a network of skilled professionals prepared to tackle pavement design and infrastructure maintenance challenges. It also aims to increase NCAT’s graduate student enrollment, ensuring that Auburn University and NCAT continue to make a positive impact on the asphalt industry and contribute to various fields, including consulting, education, material suppliers and more. 

“We are thrilled to support the next generation of industry leaders through the NAPA Road Scholars Program,” said Randy West, NCAT director. “These students embody the spirit of innovation and excellence that drives the future of pavement engineering.”  

Established in 1986 through a collaboration between Auburn University and the National Asphalt Pavement Association’s Research and Education Foundation, NCAT addresses the needs of maintaining America’s pavement infrastructure through practical research and development initiatives. The center’s mission is to provide innovative, implementable research, technology development and education that advance safe, durable and sustainable asphalt pavements.   

For more information about NCAT and its research initiatives, visit ncat.us.