The Dean of UW Bothell’s School of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics, Elaine Scott, was recently named a recipient of the Distinguished Engineering Alumni Medal (DEAM) at the University of California, Davis.
The DEAM is an alumni award from UC Davis’ College of Engineering. At a ceremony in February, Scott will be recognized for 15 years or more of industry, academic or public service experience, as well as her record of outstanding achievements. According to the college, the award also recognizes distinguished service to the College of Engineering, the engineering profession, or the community.
Scott said she is honored to receive the award.
“I really love UC Davis and cherish my experience there. To be a recipient of this award is extremely surprising and humbling,” said Scott.
Scott earned her undergraduate and master’s degrees in agricultural engineering from UC Davis, in 1979 and 1981. She then pursued her doctoral degrees in agricultural engineering and mechanical engineering from Michigan State University, in 1990. Since Scott’s arrival at UW Bothell in 2012, science and technology education has risen to regional and national prominence. Under Scott’s leadership, the School of STEM has experienced tremendous growth and achievements. Three new degrees and six new programs were launched, while the number of full-time STEM students increased by more than forty percent within the past year.
During Scott’s tenure, the School of STEM has secured more than $1.8 million in funding and research proposals have increased by 46 percent. This has resulted in several awards, including the school’s first Fulbright Award and two National Science Foundation CAREER awards.
Scott is one of few women in the field of engineering. In her role as Dean, she is charged with encouraging other women to pursue a degree in engineering and other STEM fields. “From a purely economic stance, as a country, we can’t afford to look for ideas from a small population,” Scott says. “In order for our country to reach its fullest, it is critical that the whole population becomes involved, men and women. Women in particular have an incredible opportunity in the field of engineering and STEM, we are all needed.”
