To Autumn, our favorite time of the year

The fall issue of Case Alumnus always marks an exciting time. The new academic year is upon us and we enjoy welcoming faculty and students back to campus. It also means that in a few short weeks, as the weather cools and the leaves change on the newly renovated Quad, some of you will make your way back to University Circle to celebrate homecoming. 

During this year’s festivities we will honor eight distinguished alumni who strengthen engineering in a variety of ways. Their leadership and service both in their fields and at this university have helped create a community where learning and research thrive. Each one of them serve as a strong example of the extraordinary impact of Case engineers. Special congratulations go to my friend and colleague, Ken Loparo, who in addition to receiving this year’s Silver Bowl, is celebrating his retirement after 43 years of extraordinary dedication, innovation, and leadership. 

I am also delighted to share that the community of Case engineers will be growing as we welcome 14 new faculty members. Each will bring expertise and leadership to our research and academic communities. 

Additionally, our faculty continue to make groundbreaking discoveries impacting our campus and beyond, as their research is recognized nationally. One example is Burcu Gurkan, a stellar researcher featured later in this magazine. She is receiving national recognition for her important work in carbon capture and electrochemical energy storage. Over and over and in a variety of ways, the faculty, students and alumni of the Case School of Engineering are enhancing the world around them. 

We are eager to welcome the class of 2026 and kick off another academic year, one that is sure to be filled with continued successes. Thank you for your continued support of the Case School of Engineering.