Howard Engineering Professors Named AAAS Fellows

Sarah Mitchell · 2026-05-29

Big news coming out of Howard University recently—and it’s the kind that makes you sit up and take notice. Two engineering professors from the College of Engineering and Architecture have been named Fellows of the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS), which happens to be the world’s largest scientific society. That’s not just a pat on the back; it’s a huge deal in the academic world. ### What This Recognition Really Means Being elected as an AAAS Fellow is like getting an Oscar in the science community. It’s a nod to years of hard work, groundbreaking research, and a real commitment to advancing knowledge. For these professors, it’s a sign that their contributions are being recognized on a global stage. And honestly, it’s a proud moment for Howard University as a whole—especially for the engineering department, which continues to punch above its weight. ### Who Are These Professors? Without diving into a dry list of titles, let’s just say these are people who’ve spent decades pushing boundaries. One focuses on innovative materials that could change how we build everything from bridges to smartphones. The other is deep into environmental engineering, finding ways to clean up our water and air. Both have published dozens of papers, mentored countless students, and secured major funding for their work. They’re not just academics; they’re problem solvers. ### Why This Matters for Engineering Engineering isn’t just about math and blueprints. It’s about solving real-world problems that affect people’s lives. And when Howard’s professors get recognized by the AAAS, it sends a clear message: Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) are producing world-class research that competes with the best. It breaks stereotypes and opens doors for more students of color to pursue STEM careers. That’s a win for everyone. ### The Ripple Effect on Students Here’s the thing: when your professor is an AAAS Fellow, you’re learning from someone at the top of their game. Students at Howard get firsthand exposure to cutting-edge research and mentorship that can launch their own careers. It’s one thing to read about breakthroughs in a textbook; it’s another to work alongside the people making them happen. That kind of experience is priceless. ### A Quick Look at the Numbers - Over 1,200 AAAS Fellows are elected each year worldwide. - Howard has now produced more than a dozen AAAS Fellows across all departments. - Engineering programs at HBCUs graduate a significant percentage of Black engineers in the U.S., despite making up only a fraction of engineering schools. ### What’s Next? Both professors plan to continue their research while mentoring the next generation of engineers. They’re also working on new projects that could lead to patents and startups—so the impact won’t stop at the classroom door. If you’re a student considering engineering at Howard, this is the kind of environment you’d be stepping into: one where excellence is the norm and recognition follows. In short, this isn’t just a trophy on a shelf. It’s a signal that Howard University is a serious player in engineering research. And for anyone who cares about diversity in STEM, that’s something to celebrate.