[cid:image001.png@01DBBDE5.6FF0BCD0] JANUARY 13, 2026 [cid:image002.png@01DBBDE5.6FF0BCD0] New Faces, Same Mission: Welcoming Our Newest CEGSAC Committee Members We are excited to welcome the newest members of the CEGSAC Committee. They bring fresh perspectives and enthusiasm to our shared mission. Professional Development committee [cid:d9358a7f-0299-4622-a224-1b3970086d4d] Mariam Alrefaei Co-chair malrefa@purdue.edu Master's student concentrating in Environmental Engineering. Mariam likes to take walks or watches tv in her free time. [cid:bb87739b-2c5b-4c14-bffc-323934fdb00f] Vedant Karde Member vkarde@purdue.edu Master's student concentrating in Construction Engineering. Vedat enjoys playing cricket, football and watching movies. [cid:d85e4f0d-fdca-4e1d-8a81-11be49f27fc9] Aishwarya Badhri Member abadhri@purdue.edu Master's student concentrating in Construction Engineering. Aishwarya enjoys reading in her spare time. [cid:1493fb94-9cef-43c0-ab17-74eb59cce9b0] Kai Smith Member Smit6700@purdue.edu Master's student concentrating in Structural Engineering. Kai enjoys rock climbing and playing the drums Cultural & Community Outreach Committee [cid:9d99a91b-1c41-4907-8f98-0b343240e15a] Esha Visram Chair evisram@purdue.edu Masters student concentrating in Geotechnical Engineering. Esha enjoys baking in my spare time. [cid:b9ef43de-5a0b-4e9d-8bbf-8b4e1e99a7a9] Alex Woods Member woods174@purdue.edu Master's student concentrating in Transportation Engineering and LEM. Alex enjoys cooking, reading, gaming, model railroading, and volunteering. [cid:a5e7bf7a-b5e5-44d0-a4f7-4e250c91625b] Jaeseok Jeong Member Jeong263@purdue.edu Master's student concentrating in Structural Engineering. Jaeseok enjoys watching basketball and movies in his free time. Sports Health and Wellness committee [cid:d986590a-7dec-4810-b187-2f88bcef7b5a] Lautaro Peralta Co-chair peraltl@purdue.edu PhD student focussing on 3D concrete printing and its structural and material behavior.. Lautaro enjoys going to the gym, playing and watching soccer, and cooking barbecue. Office of Public Relations committee [cid:6f84b619-d88a-471b-9a60-f990c4db2730] Ishaan Mussenal basavaraja naik Co-chair imussena@purdue.edu Master's student concentrating in Construction Engineering. Ishaan enjoys playing pickle ball in his free time. [cid:f30a7911-6ec2-4102-99a3-3bfd83cfa425] Sucharitha Alluru Co-chair alluru@purdue.edu Master's student concentrating in Structural Engineering. Sucharitha enjoys watching movies, reading mythology, and hand embroidery in her free time. [cid:image003.png@01DBBDE5.6FF0BCD0] SPRING 2025 EVENTS ROUNDUP [cid:beb88b07-a003-4a38-aaf2-95f2d2d7dd60] [cid:30a27ac2-23e8-417a-be6a-c1a84a49c6f4] Kayaking Trip August 08, 2025 CEGSAC organized an adventurous kayaking trip at Wildcat Creek, giving graduate students a refreshing afternoon outdoors. The calm waters and late-summer sunshine created a peaceful setting as participants learned basic kayaking techniques with help from volunteers. Many enjoyed taking a break from academic stress before the semester became busy. Some explored gentle currents with confidence, while others drifted slowly and enjoyed the scenery. The trip welcomed both experienced paddlers and first-time kayakers, making it enjoyable for everyone. It also helped students connect with peers through friendly conversations and shared moments on the water. Laughter and teamwork added to the fun, creating a memorable experience. By the end of the outing, students felt relaxed, energized, and grateful for the time spent in nature. Welcome Breakfast August 21, 2025 CEGSAC welcomed graduate students back to campus with a warm and lively breakfast event held in HAMP G150. Bagels, coffee, and pastries helped fuel early morning conversations as students met new peers, reconnected with friends, and interacted with committee members. The event served not only as an introduction to the new academic year but also as an introduction to the resources and support CEGSAC provides. Many students shared their goals for the semester, learned about upcoming events, and enjoyed a comfortable space to ease back into the academic routine. [cid:e3b9a6d4-90fe-4284-a237-54e2ad99ced5] [cid:b4fa78da-e929-4b4f-a386-669c2f0a0294] [cid:6bc321a8-d676-4f12-ba10-d8f423147eb2] Hiking at Prophetstown September 27, 2025 CEGSAC continued its outdoor activities with a group hike at Prophetstown State Park. Graduate students explored picturesque trails, spotted wildlife, and enjoyed Indiana’s early fall scenery. The hike provided a great opportunity to recharge mentally and physically while connecting with fellow students in a low-pressure, welcoming environment. Conversations flowed easily along the trails, and many participants expressed how refreshing it was to step away from coursework and spend quality time in nature. The event successfully combined exercise, community building, and relaxation. [cid:30e65e07-2793-4179-a6d0-4b4e2fdb761b] Corn Maze October 18, 2025 In collaboration with Purdue ITE, CEGSAC hosted a fall-themed outing to Exploration Acres. Students teamed up to navigate one of Indiana’s largest corn mazes, taking on the challenge with enthusiasm and humor. Beyond the maze, attendees enjoyed seasonal activities including pumpkin displays, photo spots, and light-hearted games. The crisp autumn weather set the perfect backdrop for an afternoon of laughter and teamwork. The trip highlighted the importance of balancing academics with fun and helped create new friendships among students across different programs. [cid:6b30976b-3449-4fc9-bca0-732075df203c] [cid:1c35339f-a6c9-43f3-af58-e47c01085bb7] Fall Picnic November 01, 2025 CEGSAC hosted a cozy and welcoming Fall Picnic at Pickett Park, creating a relaxed space for students to enjoy the beautiful autumn season. Attendees gathered for an afternoon filled with delicious pizza, snacks, music, and casual outdoor games. The warm colors of fall, combined with friendly conversations and laughter, made the event a standout social gathering of the semester. Students appreciated the chance to take a break from midterms, meet peers from different research groups, and spend time outdoors. The picnic fostered a sense of community and provided an enjoyable way for everyone to unwind. [cid:ff325ad6-19ce-41a7-8dba-9b6976eb2faa] [cid:5a669902-aecc-4df0-b06e-9109941b8113] Mentorship Social November 20, 2025 CEGSAC hosted a relaxed and engaging Mentorship Social at Mad Mushroom, bringing together graduate students participating in the mentorship program. Mentors and mentees had the opportunity to meet in person, share experiences, and build connections over great food in a casual setting. The event encouraged open conversation, networking, and support among students across different research areas. It served as a meaningful space for strengthening mentor–mentee relationships and fostering a sense of community within the department. [cid:1e8635a6-4672-4182-b634-985212ae1b84] Ginger Bread house making December 02, 2025 To wrap up the semester with holiday spirit, CEGSAC hosted a Gingerbread Social that brought students together for an evening of creativity and good vibes. Participants decorated gingerbread cookies, shared stories from the semester, and enjoyed seasonal treats in a warm and cheerful setting. The relaxed event offered a much-needed pause before finals, giving students the chance to de-stress and enjoy lighthearted fun. Many took photos of their cookie creations, making the night both memorable and festive. It was a perfect way to celebrate the end of the semester. [cid:7334f89b-d60b-4e71-9461-b75910fad5ae] [cid:67dadcb8-1366-433a-a17b-76b21ec5fda7] Weekly Sports * Soccer (October 20, 2025)-CEGSAC hosted a friendly soccer match at TREC Field 2, giving students a fun, active way to connect. * Indoor Volleyball (November 3, 2025)-CEGSAC hosted a fun, inclusive indoor volleyball session at the CoRec for students to stay active and connect. * Just Dance (December 8, 2025)- A lively Just Dance session filled with music, movement, and fun. * Pickleball & Badminton (December 8, 2025)-An energetic evening of pickleball and badminton for all skill levels. [cid:1cdf3899-c418-4ef2-b809-c14090e3dca9] [cid:5f00c135-4d10-4015-81c3-f06be609606d] [cid:00e3103a-50e3-42ca-98bb-cf914a0f592a] [cid:1b60bbea-827b-442d-9e7d-d4213eb9d00c] Click Here to Learn More About Our Past Events!<https://engineering.purdue.edu/CCE/Academics/Organizations/CEGSAC/news/events/past-events> [cid:image028.png@01DBBDE5.6FF0BCD0] CCE ADMINISTRATIVE ANNOUNCEMENT Honoring Dr. S. Govindaraju Rao’s Leadership at the Lyles School January 12, 2026 [cid:4a9b70d7-3d1c-4d26-a29f-77bcc2b2e966] [cid:057a5772-8f7f-4888-81a7-89df5c308bcf] The Lyles School of Civil and Construction Engineering announces that Professor Rao S. Govindaraju will be stepping down from his role as Head of the School, a position he has held with distinction since 2012. Professor Govindaraju’s decision to conclude his tenure as head follows his recent appointment as Vice President for Institutes and Centers at the Discovery Park District at Purdue University, a university-wide leadership role in which he will begin serving in the coming term. In light of these expanded responsibilities, he will retire from his administrative role as head while continuing his service to Purdue University in this new capacity. During his tenure as head, Professor Govindaraju provided exceptional leadership, advancing the school’s academic reputation, research enterprise, and engagement with industry and society. His vision and commitment have left a lasting impact on the school and its community. The school extends its sincere gratitude to Professor Govindaraju for his years of dedicated service and leadership, and congratulates him on his new role in advancing Purdue University’s research and innovation mission. Be sure to catch our upcoming events and activities - stay tuned to your inbox! [cid:image031.png@01DBBDE5.6FF0BCD0] DISTINGUISHED LECTURER INTERVIEW Robert L. Bowen, Donn E. Hancher Distinguished Fellow In this interview, we speak with Robert L. Bowen, President and CEO of Bowen Engineering Corporation and a distinguished Purdue alumnus, about his remarkable career in civil and construction engineering, the leadership principles that shaped his success, and the lessons he has gained from decades of professional experience. A graduate of Purdue University with a BSCE earned in 1962, Bowen has played a pivotal role in the construction industry, founding and leading Bowen Engineering since 1967. Recognized for his outstanding contributions through numerous honors, including the Distinguished Engineering Alumnus Award, he shares insights on engineering practice, entrepreneurship, and the values that continue to guide future generations of engineers. [cid:fc927b94-1e4d-4b46-8d95-44f64c1d4bb7] Career Journey & Entrepreneurship * Could you walk us through your career journey from your early professional years to founding Bowen Engineering? My career has been a combination of hard work and a bit of luck. I began my professional journey at WM Lyles, where I learned how to bid projects and run jobs independently. Those early years helped me understand not just construction, but how to be a strong businessman. Building solid relationships and consistently putting in the effort eventually gave me the confidence and foundation to start Bowen Engineering. Leadership & Mentorship * What key experiences or mentors most shaped your leadership style? My father instilled strong values in me early on, and those lessons stayed with me throughout my life. Professionally, my time at WM Lyles especially working under Bill Brown—played a major role in shaping how I lead. I also learned a great deal from negative leadership experiences, which showed me that leadership should be built on empathy, respect, and care for people rather than toughness alone. Company Culture & Core Values * Bowen Engineering is known for its culture and commitment to excellence. What core principles have guided this growth? One of my core beliefs is placing people in roles where they can truly succeed, rather than giving up on them too quickly. I have always believed that supporting and guiding people helps bring out their best potential. At the same time, I focus on running the company based on solid business fundamentals and careful analysis of the numbers. This approach ensures that our decisions are grounded and sustainable. Equally important, I embrace change and remain open to new ideas, technologies, and methods. I constantly look for ways to improve, innovate, and refine our processes. I have learned that fear or rigid thinking can limit growth, so I strive to make flexibility and progress part of our company culture. Growth & Challenges * What major challenges did you encounter when scaling Bowen Engineering, and how did you navigate them? One of the biggest challenges I faced was entering the sewer and wastewater construction industry, which was a significant risk at the time. The market was tough, and there were established competitors, so stepping into it required careful planning and a willingness to take chances. I knew we had to do something different to succeed, so I explored new methods, including micro-tunneling, to see if they would work in our projects. Testing and implementing these innovative approaches allowed us to stand out and deliver results that others couldn’t. Ultimately, it paid off, as many competitors eventually left the market. I believe our success came from being willing to try new approaches, embracing innovation, delivering higher-quality work consistently, and refusing to walk away when challenges arose. Academia & Giving Back * What inspired you to stay engaged at Purdue University over the years, and how did you get into teaching? As a Purdue alumnus, I have always felt a deep sense of responsibility to give back to the university that played such a pivotal role in shaping my career. With more than 60 years of experience in the construction and engineering industry, I understand the value of practical, real-world knowledge, and I feel it is essential to pass that on to students. Teaching and mentoring have become some of the most rewarding and fulfilling experiences of my life. I take great satisfaction in guiding students, sharing insights from my own successes and challenges, and helping prepare the next generation of engineers to face the professional world with confidence and integrity. Being able to contribute to their growth and see them succeed is a joy that continually inspires me to stay engaged with Purdue. Work Ethic & Personal Philosophy * How do you maintain balance between demanding professional responsibilities and personal life? I do not follow the traditional idea of work-life balance, especially as a business owner. For me, the company must come first, because its success depends on constant attention and dedication. Achieving long-term growth requires full commitment, personal sacrifice, and a drive to excel in everything I do. I have learned that staying involved in all aspects of the business is essential to overcoming challenges and achieving results. While I do try to find moments for personal reflection and connection, my primary focus is always on ensuring the company thrives. This dedication and focus are what keeps me motivated and engaged every day. Legacy & Motivation * What motivates you today, after such an accomplished career? I remain motivated by my genuine love for the work I do and the satisfaction it brings me. Equally important is my desire to show others how much I care about them and their growth. I believe that when you lead with care and integrity, it makes a real difference in people’s lives. I also firmly believe that personal values play a central role in shaping one’s destiny. The principles I follow—honesty, dedication, and respect continue to guide my decisions every day. They influence not only how I approach my work but also how I interact with others. These values remain the foundation of both my life and my career, keeping me focused and inspired. Learning From Mistakes * What mistakes early in your career taught you the most? Early on, I learned that pushing people too hard without understanding them doesn’t produce good results. I made decisions based purely on getting the job done instead of listening. Over time, I realized mistakes are only failures if you don’t learn from them. Every tough situation helped me become more patient and thoughtful as a leader. Advice for Students * As a leader and mentor, what qualities do you envision in today’s engineering students? I value hard work, genuine care for people, and consistent communication. Building strong relationships with team members is just as important as technical skills. Safety is always a top priority, and I make it a point to encourage and support teams every day. When leaders truly take care of their people, it creates an environment where everyone can perform at their best. This combination of care, guidance, and accountability naturally leads to strong performance and long-term success. Long-Term Success * What do you think separates companies that last from those that don’t? Companies fail when fear controls decisions. The ones that last are willing to adapt, invest in people, and think long-term instead of chasing short-term wins. You can’t be rigid in this business change is constant, and those who embrace it survive. FOLLOW US! 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