Saundra Johnson Austin: The Power of Encouragement

As Saundra Johnson Austin gave her acceptance speech to receive the College’s highest honor, the Outstanding Engineering Alumni Award, in her hand was a report she completed in high school entitled, “How to Build a House.” The cover was construction paper with carefully stenciled lettering. It was clear that she took a lot of pains with it, and that this was important to her, even decades later. For me, most inspiring about this Civil Engineer, is that she dared to be her true self at a time when girls were not always applauded for thinking such things. She attributed her career choice to several factors, including the teacher who received this report, and affirmed her dream to build the world. It was uplifting to hear, and a stark reminder that a little encouragement can change the course of someone’s life. Congratulations, Saundra Johnson Austin!