The Chemical Engineering Graduate Student Association (ChEGSA) continues to be a vital force within the R.F. Smith School, representing M.Eng., M.S. and Ph.D. students, as well as postdoctoral fellows. Acting as a bridge between students, faculty and staff, ChEGSA ensures that graduate voices remain central to departmental life.
ChEGSA’s mission centers on professional development, building community, promoting outreach, supporting student input in academic matters, and strengthening student-faculty connections. Through a wide array of events, the organization cultivates an environment where students thrive academically, socially and professionally.
A highlight of the previous academic year was the Graduate Symposium, ChEGSA’s annual research showcase. Led by Dharani Prasad Vadlamudi and a dedicated committee, the event featured oral and poster presentations that highlighted the department’s innovation and excellence. Keynotes included Phong Diep ’95, technology and R&D leader at Corning Incorporated, and Emmanuel Giannelis, associate dean for innovation at Cornell Engineering. The day concluded with a celebratory dinner and student presentation awards at the Statler Hotel. The event was generously supported by Merck, Corning, ExxonMobil, alumnus Nicholas Yeh and the R. F. Smith School.
This spring, ChEGSA launched a new “inreach” initiative in partnership with Cornell’s American Institute of Chemical Engineers (AIChE) chapter and Corning, aimed at helping undergraduates explore graduate school opportunities. Graduate students and industry professionals shared advice on applying to M.S., M.Eng. and Ph.D. programs, creating a valuable platform for mentorship and collaboration and a meaningful step toward building stronger ties and future collaborations between ChEGSA and AIChE.
Other outreach efforts included a bowling night for prospective Ph.D. students and a tour of Corning Incorporated’s research and development and diesel facilities, offering a firsthand look at real-world chemical engineering.
Social programming remains central to ChEGSA’s mission of community building. This year blended longstanding traditions with new ideas shaped by student feedback. A spring winery tour brought 30 students together for a regional outing and cross-cohort connection. Other events included board game nights, the annual Halloween party, a cultural potluck celebrating shared traditions, and a popular Thai Dye event that closed the semester with color and camaraderie. ChEGSA also revived the annual ski trip to Greek Peak, giving students a chance to relax and learn to ski while enjoying upstate New York’s winter.
Looking ahead, ChEGSA has a long list of plans for the new academic year. They welcome alumni connection and support of these efforts.