Doctoral students awarded 100+ women strong departmental award

Madison Evans and Victoria Ballard, two doctoral students studying industrial and systems engineering, were recently awarded the Samuel Ginn College of Engineering’s 100+ Women Strong Outstanding Departmental Annual Graduate Award. Two graduate students from each engineering department received this honor. These students have demonstrated academic excellence in the graduate program and were recommended by their program officer or department chair.

Evans graduated with a bachelor’s degree in industrial and systems engineering from Auburn in 2020. She began the doctoral program soon after. Ballard earned a bachelor’s degree in chemical engineering from the University of Washington in 1997, and a master’s degree in civil and environmental engineering in 1998. She began a concurrent master’s and doctorate program in industrial and systems engineering at Auburn in 2021.

Susan Askew, professor of practice for the Auburn University Department of Industrial and Systems Engineering, recommended Evans for the award.

“I have known Madison for almost two years in her graduate position, and she always exemplifies the values of Auburn, putting the learning and advancement of her students and peers at the front,” Askew said. “Her research in cyber-physical systems has been recognized by publications and presentations at conferences. She puts creative and critical thinking to work on every challenge she is presented and is tenacious in finding optimum solutions.”

Richard Sesek, Tim Cook professor for the Department of Industrial and Systems Engineering, supported Ballard’s nomination.

“Victoria’s enthusiasm for both teaching and research has been unmatched since she joined the Department of Industrial and Systems Engineering,” Sesek said. “Her passion is genuine and has provided inspiration to others, particularly undergraduates who look up to her as a role model.”

The college’s 100+ Women Strong program is made up of alumni and friends of the college who embrace the college’s vision to provide resources and programming that will enable Auburn to attract, support and retain female students in Auburn Engineering.