New Mexico State University (NMSU) reported on Aug. 21 that Patricia Sullivan has been awarded the Hispanic Engineer National Achievement Awards Conference community service-academia award by Great Minds in STEM, according to a press release. Sullivan serves as the associate dean for outreach and recruitment in the College of Engineering with a dual role in the Office of Research, Creativity and Economic Development.
Sullivan has led initiatives aimed at extending STEM education accessibility to remote, rural and tribal areas within the state. Her recent accomplishment involves spearheading the establishment of a multi-state technical assistance center, situated at NMSU, dedicated to advancing environmental and energy justice as part of the Environmental Protection Agency's Thriving Communities initiative.
“This is a well-deserved honor,” said NMSU interim President Jay Gogue, according to the press release. “Dr. Sullivan has focused her career on ensuring access and fostering opportunity for underrepresented students and communities. She’s an inspiring role model for any engineer or scientist, but especially for young Hispanic women seeking to explore STEM fields.”
The recipients of the award will receive recognition at the 35th anniversary Great Minds in STEM Conference, taking place from Oct. 11 to 14 in Pasadena, California. Sullivan stands as one of the 22 individuals, including engineers, scientists and STEM professionals to be selected through a peer-review process.
“It is an honor to be recognized with this prestigious award,” Sullivan said. “Community service is a shared passion, and this is truly a collective recognition of the great work by like-minded colleagues that I have had the privilege of working with over my career.”
“Patricia has always been dedicated to community engagement and service,” said College of Engineering Dean Lakshmi Reddi. “She has inspired many on and outside campus with her service-focus and has mentored several of our faculty members. She truly deserves this recognition.”
