College of Engineering, Architecture and Technology names top three seniors
Tuesday, April 23, 2013
Oklahoma State University graduating seniors Katie Haning, Zach Keith and Rachel Seo
have captured the College of Engineering, Architecture and Technology’s highest student
awards for 2013.
Haning, a chemical engineering senior from Lucas, Texas, is awarded the Academic
Excellence award.
“She will make outstanding contributions, build a stellar career, and honor the college,”
said Russ Rhinehart, professor of chemical engineering.
Haning was a 2012 OSU Student Philanthropist of the Year, a Wentz Research Scholar,
received the Southwest Chemical Association scholarship, and is active with the OSU
Student Foundation Stewardship Committee and the Institute for Creative and Innovation
Steering Committee. She is a 2013 OSU Alumni Association Outstanding Senior, and
maintains an impressive 4.0 GPA.
Keith, a civil and environmental engineering student from Oklahoma City, is awarded
the Exceptional Leadership award.
“He seeks to be a true scholar and leader in both the classroom and organizations
where he applies his knowledge for the good of others,” said John Veenstra, professor
and head in the school of civil and environmental engineering.
Keith has worked as a midstream-engineering intern with Williams Companies, an engineering
tech intern with the City of Oklahoma City, and a teaching assistant at OSU.
His leadership activities include: CEAT Student Council, Presidents Leadership Council,
American Society of Engineers, Engineers without Boarders, Chi Epsilon, and Blue Key
Honor Society. Volunteer efforts include: Special Olympics, Habitat for Humanity,
Camp Cowboy, Into the Streets and OSU Big Event.
Keith posts a 3.97 GPA and has received awards from the American Society of Civil
Engineers, and is a 2012 OSU Senior of Significance.
Seo, an industrial engineering and management student from Edmond, Okla., is awarded
the coveted Dean’s Outstanding Student award.
Paul Tikalsky, dean of the college, said Seo embodies the passion and work ethic all
students should aspire to have. Not only is she involved with a multitude of leadership
activities, but also possesses a personal drive for success.
Seo has served as secretary and treasurer for the Institute of Industrial Engineers,
is a member of Alpha Pi Mu and served on the CEAT Technology Fee Committee during
her sophomore year. Additionally, Seo is active with the CEAT Student Council where
she currently serves as president.
She has been a success coach for transfer and chemical engineering students, is currently
a mentor for the Girl’s Engineering Club, and played the violin in the OSU symphony
from 2009-2011.
Outstanding student awards for the college were selected based on academic merit,
leadership involvement, and career development activities.