WashU McKelvey Engineering

05/28/2026

Launching in fall 2026, McKelvey Engineering’s new Systems Engineering for Social Good minor will give students the tools to think critically about fairness, bias, ethics and the real-world impact of engineered systems — bridging technical innovation with community-centered problem solving.

Program will equip students with ability to connect technical decisions with societal outcomes

05/28/2026

The tassels have turned, but we’re still celebrating.

A few favorite moments from Commencement 2026 with the graduates, families and community that made the day so special. 🎓

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05/27/2026

As AI and connected technologies become more deeply embedded in everyday life, protecting cyberphysical systems is increasingly critical.

In the latest issue of Momentum, WashU McKelvey Engineering researcher Ning Zhang shares how his lab is working to secure the technologies people rely on — from AI systems to 3D-printed medical devices — while preparing for a future where humans and computing are even more closely connected.

Zhang’s work in cyberphysical security has earned national recognition, including recent honors from the National Science Foundation and the U.S. Army Research Office.

Learn more.

Ning Zhang uses his cybersecurity expertise to anticipate and thwart threats in an increasingly interconnected world

05/27/2026

The WashU McKelvey School of Engineering has named Christopher D. Ramsay associate dean for undergraduate programs, effective June 22, 2026.

Ramsay returns to McKelvey after previously serving as assistant dean and director of undergraduate admissions and student success from 2012–2021. He also served as associate director of the Skandalaris Center before joining the WashU School of Law as chief of staff.

In his new role, Ramsay will support academic success, advising and the undergraduate experience for McKelvey’s 1,700 students.

He succeeds J. Chris Kroeger, who will retire this summer after 35 years of service to WashU.

Learn more.

Chris Ramsay returns to McKelvey Engineering; succeeds Chris Kroeger

05/19/2026

What do clean drinking water, air pollution monitoring and AI for health have in common?

Engineering.

Our latest Momentum cover story highlights how McKelvey Engineering researchers are advancing public health through interdisciplinary collaboration and innovative research designed to improve lives and communities around the world.

From environmental engineering to artificial intelligence, McKelvey faculty are helping to shape the future of public health.

Read the full story.

Research in McKelvey Engineering intersects with public health

05/12/2026

The Spring 2026 issue of Momentum Magazine is now available.

Read how engineering intersects with public health, how students learn through tackling mechanical design problems, and how Troy and Justin Ruths built a strong foundation in McKelvey Engineering for their successful careers.

Learn more.

https://engineering.washu.edu/news/magazine/index.html

05/07/2026

✨ Class Acts 2026: Meet Ruiqi Wang

Ruiqi didn’t expect his PhD in computer science to take him into the kitchen, but that’s exactly where his research is making a difference.

Working in WashU’s “smart kitchen,” Ruiqi developed a system that uses AI to detect cognitive errors during everyday tasks, like cooking. The goal is to help people experiencing cognitive decline live safely and independently at home.

By combining machine learning with real-world applications, Ruiqi is helping shape technology that supports an aging population in meaningful ways.

Next up: Google, where he’ll continue his work in machine learning.

Learn more.

https://source.washu.edu/2026/05/class-acts-ruiqi-wang/

05/06/2026

✨ Class Acts 2026: Meet Catalina Bernabé Correa

As a senior, Catalina has combined research, design and global engagement — from studying neuroplasticity in the lab of Ismael Seáñez to contributing to WashU Racing and Engineers Without Borders.

Her work focuses on advancing neuro-rehabilitation strategies for individuals with spinal cord injuries, integrating technical expertise with direct participant interaction.

“Coming from a different country, I wanted to learn how people from different cultures communicate and work. Different perspectives lead to better science.”

Next up: Catalina will pursue a graduate degree in engineering management at WashU, with plans to build a career in neural engineering.

Learn more about her journey: https://source.washu.edu/2026/04/class-acts-catalina-bernabe-correa/

05/01/2026

After 35 years, professor Ron Cytron gave his final lecture on April 24.

Surrounded by students, alumni, colleagues and family, both in the room and across Zoom, he reflected on a life shaped by curiosity, music, innovation and the people he loves most.

From his early days in Texas to a remarkable career in computer science & engineering, Ron’s impact goes far beyond the classroom. He’s been a mentor, a collaborator and a source of joy for many.

He closed with a song — and a reminder we won’t forget:
“May I suggest… today could be the best part of your life?"

Thank you for 35 incredible years. You will be deeply missed and warmly celebrated in this next chapter.