Christine Wilson Memorial Scholarship

Civil Engineering is more than a profession to me, it’s a way to create spaces that serve people with dignity and purpose. As someone with a disability, I’ve experienced firsthand how poor design can exclude people. That’s why I’ve committed myself to ensuring accessibility isn’t treated as an afterthought, but as a core principle in every phase of civil engineering. Through my internship with Cole & Associates, I’ve worked on data validation for accessibility features like curb ramps, curb cuts, pedestrian signals, and bus stops. I’ve contributed to ADA transition planning by studying how cities assess and improve compliance with accessibility standards. This work taught me how data and design come together to shape environments that work for everyone, not just the average user. I’ve also explored digital accessibility, reviewing web content through the lens of universal design. While civil engineering is traditionally focused on the physical world, true accessibility requires a multidisciplinary perspective. On campus, I lead the Students for Disability Awareness and Support (SDAS) club, where I work closely with students and administrators to identify access barriers and advocate for change. Whether we’re reviewing campus infrastructure or educating on accessible engineering practices, I bring the lens of a future engineer: focused on evidence, equity, and implementation. I am currently working toward my Civil Engineering degree and certification as an ADA Coordinator. My goal is to specialize in municipal and site development work, helping cities and institutions design buildings, sidewalks, parks, and public spaces that prioritize accessibility from the beginning, not just as a compliance issue, but as a commitment to community. I want to be the kind of engineer who ensures no one is left behind simply because of how a ramp is angled or a crossing signal is timed. Christine Wilson’s dedication to mentorship and thoughtful design reflects the kind of engineer I aspire to be. I want to carry that legacy forward by continuing to learn, lead, and mentor others, especially those whose voices are often missing in conversations about infrastructure and access. Civil engineering has the power to open doors, and I intend to build them… wide enough for everyone.