Two CEAT students named 2024 Goldwater Scholars
Wednesday, October 30, 2024
Media Contact: Kristi Wheeler | Marketing and Communications Manager | 405-744-5831 | kristi.wheeler@okstate.edu
This spring, two Oklahoma State University College of Engineering, Architecture and Technology students were awarded the prestigious Barry M. Goldwater Scholarship.
Trey Dorrell and Sam Glenn stood out from a competitive pool of 1,353 applicants representing 446 institutions nationwide, earning this esteemed scholarship that provides up to $7,500 annually for one to two years.
The Goldwater Foundation has a history of fostering the next generation of professionals in critical fields such as natural sciences, mathematics and engineering. For over three decades, the foundation has awarded scholarships to college sophomores and juniors dedicated to research careers. This initiative not only supports their academic pursuits but also contributes significantly to national progress by nurturing talented individuals ready to address key challenges, from national defense to medical breakthroughs.
The legacy of the Goldwater Scholarship extends beyond financial support, often leading recipients to further accolades such as the National Science Foundation’s Graduate Fellowship, Rhodes Scholarship, Churchill Scholarship, and the National Defense Science and Engineering Graduate Fellowship. This recognition highlights the caliber of Goldwater Scholars.
Dorrell and Glenn’s achievements mark a significant milestone for OSU, bringing the total number of Goldwater Scholars from the university to 34, with 16 of those accolades earned by CEAT students.
Trey Dorrell
Trey Dorrell, a senior majoring in mechanical and aerospace engineering with a minor in Spanish, came to OSU as a Freshman Research Scholar.
Dorrell found that his Spanish minor significantly enhanced his communication skills and cultural understanding, which was pivotal to his successful Goldwater application.
Dorrell’s dedication to research is evident in his work on optimizing 3D-printed hybrid rocket motors, which earned him a Wentz Research Scholarship. His role as an engineering technician at the Oklahoma Aerospace Institute for Research and Education, combined with his leadership as vice president of the OSU Space Cowboys, showcases his commitment to advancing aerospace technology.
On top of this, Dorrell is also nearing completing his Honors College degree. To earn this distinction, students complete honors coursework in a breadth of academic areas as well as a concentration of coursework in their major.
“Winning the Barry M. Goldwater Scholarship represents a significant milestone in my academic journey,” he said. “It’s a validation of my commitment to research and an incredible boost to pursue my aspirations in aerospace engineering with even greater enthusiasm.
“Dr. [Kurt] Rouser, my research mentor, and Dr. [Jamey] Jacob and Professor [Carisa] Ramming, my other recommenders, have profoundly shaped my scholarly path. Their guidance and support have been invaluable. OSU’s dedicated faculty and educators consistently ensure students like me can achieve our fullest potential.”
Dorrell aims to contribute to groundbreaking advancements in aerospace technology, particularly propulsion systems and unmanned aerial vehicles.
“I hope to play a pivotal role in the future of space exploration, pushing the boundaries of human ingenuity,” Dorrell said.
Sam Glenn
Sam Glenn, a senior double majoring in mechanical engineering and mathematics, has been immersed in research since his freshman year.
His work in the Applied Fluid Mechanics Lab, examining the role of wing shape in the aerodynamic performance of tiny insects, has earned him recognition as both a Niblack Research Scholar and a Wentz Research Scholar. Glenn has presented his research at regional and national conferences, demonstrating his expertise and dedication.
Glenn’s passion for research is deeply rooted in his family’s academic legacy. His parents met in graduate school, and his grandfather earned a doctorate in chemical engineering from OSU. Glenn plans to follow in these footsteps, aiming to complete a doctorate in mechanical engineering focusing on hypersonic flows using computational fluid dynamics.
“Winning the Barry M. Goldwater Scholarship is an incredible honor,” Glenn said. “It shows me that all the hours I’ve spent in the lab and classroom are paying off.”
He attributes much of his success to the mentorship he has received at OSU.
“Dr. [Arvind] Santhanakrishnan continually pushed me to be a better researcher, and Dr. [Chitrarth] Prasad helped me discover my passion for computational fluid dynamics,” he said.
Photos by: Desa James
Story by: Desa James | IMPACT Magazine