Honoring Outstanding Commitment, Enduring Impact of Faculty and Staff
On April 1, 2025, the Clark School community joined together with family and friends to honor the recipients of the 2024 Outstanding Commitment Endowed Prize in Engineering for Faculty and Staff. Started in 1997, and recently endowed by Professor Emeritus William “Bill” Fourney and friends, this prestigious award recognizes individuals for their innovations in teaching, research, and service that have shaped the Clark School—and set an example for the entire community to follow. Their work continues to influence how the Clark School operates, motivates faculty and staff, and ultimately empowers students to move fearlessly forward. “Great institutions start with great people, individuals who dedicate their energy and ideas to the larger good,” Samuel Graham, dean of the Clark School, said in his remarks. “Today’s honorees dedicated their time and energy to enhancing the experiences of students, faculty, and staff. Their work leaves a legacy that energizes and guides us and, ultimately, helps better serve our students, positioning them to impact the world.” To honor their enduring influence on the Clark School, the names of this year’s awardees have been inscribed on the Outstanding Commitment Endowed Prize fountain outside of Glenn L. Martin Hall. 2024 Faculty and Staff Outstanding Commitment Award winners Selected by a committee of Clark School faculty and staff, awardees have served our school for at least 10 years, or have been retired for at least one year, or are in a new position outside of engineering. These 11 special individuals are lauded for their lasting influence on our engineering community and field. Honorees Jane Frances Fines served the Clark School for 30 years, retiring as the director of the Office of Global Engineering Leadership in 2020. Her legacy in student engagement and leadership development endures. William L. Fourney joined the Clark School in 1969, later leading the mechanical and aerospace engineering departments and launching the Keystone Program. His legacy continues in academic growth, research excellence, and student success. Victor L. Granatstein, an esteemed electrical and computer engineering professor, directed IREAP, elevating its reputation in plasma physics and vacuum electronics. His lasting impact spans research, education, and institutional growth. Maureen L. Meyer, senior assistant dean for finance and administration, retired in 2021 after 37 years of service. Her influence on financial strategy, program growth, and institutional success remains unparalleled. Darryll J. Pines, the 34th president of the University of Maryland, previously served as Clark School dean and aerospace engineering chair. His contributions have shaped the future of the Clark School and national engineering education. LaWanda G. Saddler, a CMSE program manager for 32 years, championed diversity in engineering. Her legacy in diversity advocacy and student mentorship is profound. Heidi Winick Sauber transformed Engineering Career Services over her 36-year career, expanding internship opportunities and employer partnerships. Her vision and leadership in career development impacted generations of students. Honorees in Memoriam Christopher C. Davis, an electrical and computer engineering professor for nearly 50 years, was a beloved educator and mentor. His generosity, dedication, and scholastic contributions left an indelible mark on engineering education and research. Terry Lynn Island served as associate director of undergraduate studies for mechanical engineering (2007–2019) and was a vital part of the campus since 1992. She supported students and colleagues alike, always looking for ways to improve the school and the advisory experience for all students. Linda C. Schmidt, a mechanical engineering professor and the department’s first tenured woman professor, was passionate about engineering design and student teamwork. Her legacy includes leading the NSF-funded RISE program, benefitting hundreds of women engineers. Janet Murphy Zevallos, a UMD staff member since 1991, retired in 2021 as an administrative coordinator in the dean’s office. Her expertise in hiring processes and administrative systems, along with her dedication to administrative excellence and staff support, has had a lasting impact on the school’s success.
LaWanda Saddler is presented with her Outstanding Commitment Award by Samuel Graham, dean of the A. James Clark School of Engineering (left), and Hugh Bruck, associate dean for faculty affairs (right).
Awardee Heidi Winick Sauber and Ken Kiger, associate dean of undergraduate programs, view the Outstanding Commitment Endowed Prize fountain outside of Glenn L. Martin Hall.
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