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Mira Olson

What is your role?

I am an associate professor in the Department of Civil, Architectural and Environmental Engineering and Director of Peace Engineering at Drexel University.

Why you care about this prize, and what you hope this prize can achieve?

I hope to inspire the next generation of engineering students to pursue meaningful and impactful careers. So often students tell me that they feel a disconnect between their engineering careers and the work that inspires them and I want to motivate them with examples of engineers in the world who are working for peace and social justice.

 

Who is your role model?

I’ve learned so much over the years from Bernard Amadei. As the founder of Engineers Without Borders, he mobilized a global movement of engineers to work in partnership with communities around the world, continually adapting and improving the model of engagement. He shows up with humility and respect and asks how he can be helpful.

 

What is inspiring you right now?

I am inspired right now by the resiliency of our students and youth as they discover the power they have to effect change and to influence our path forward. 

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