Recognizing excellence across CEM
May 1, 2026
CEM is celebrating the Class of 2026 and would like to recognize students who have demonstrated excellence across each program.
CEM Outstanding Students 2026
Alexander Armstrong鈥擜erospace Engineering
Alex pairs strong academics with real industry experience鈥攊nterning with Bombardier,
working in flight test instrumentation, and gaining hands-on experience across the
aviation pipeline. A leader in AIAA and committed to outreach, he鈥檚 taking his next
step with Boeing.
Andrew Zachry鈥擟ivil Engineering
Andrew鈥檚 path is defined by growth. From lab support to advanced work in materials,
modeling, and robotics, he鈥檚 built both technical depth and reliability. His work
has already reached an international stage, presenting to Arctic leaders across six
countries.
Janae Matson鈥擟omputer Science
Janae combines precision and creativity. With seventeen A+ grades, she鈥檚 also improved
how research data is structured and used through her work with ACEP, while building
projects that bring engineering ideas to life.
Nadezhda Finley鈥擡lectrical Engineering
Nadia operates at a high level across academics, leadership, and research. Her work
in space weather, tied to HAARP and near-Earth modeling, reflects both technical strength
and initiative.
Brandon Kallenback鈥擟omputer Engineering
Brandon鈥檚 growth tells the story. Starting with no background in lidar, he鈥檚 now publishing
and presenting internationally. His work鈥攕upported by a URSA award鈥攕hows what persistence
and curiosity can build.
Katherine Cecil鈥擥eological Engineering
Katherine brings range and consistency鈥攍eadership, research, service, and academic
excellence. Graduating as a Climate Scholar with Distinction, with minors in German
and Mathematics, she represents the full scope of what a CEM student can be.
Wyatt Richards鈥擬echanical Engineering
Wyatt blends strong academics with real engagement鈥擜erospace Club, outreach, and a
senior design project focused on a low-cost satellite receiver. He continues into
a 4+1 BS/MS, building on that momentum.
Undrakhbayar Boldaatar鈥擯etroleum Engineering
Undrakhbayar represents consistency in a demanding field. Petroleum engineering requires
sustained effort, and standing out here reflects long-term discipline and commitment.
Nick Gray鈥擬ining Engineering
Nick moves fast and delivers. Completing his degree in roughly two years with a 3.75
GPA while staying engaged in SME, he pairs speed with substance. Alongside celebrating
our outstanding students, we also recognize those who passed the Fundamentals of Engineering
(FE) exam, an early but critical milestone on the path to becoming a licensed professional
engineer.