The Old Dominion University chapter of the Environmental Engineering Student Association (EESA) has been selected as the Water Environment Federation’s (WEF) Student Chapter of the Year. 

Each year, the Water Environment Federation (WEF), a non-profit organization representing more than 30,000 water quality professionals worldwide, recognizes one student chapter for its efforts in building a community of professionals committed to improving the global water environment.

“Getting this award is an inspiration to us, as incoming leadership, to continue the amazing efforts of the team before us so we can continue to offer positive experiences to our community,” said Ciara Coffield, current EESA chapter president. 

The EESA chapter connects its members with like-minded students and industry professionals through participation in professional societies and academic competitions. Gary Schafran and Mujde Erten-Unal, both professors in the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, serve as the organization's faculty advisors.

“Although the award names the student organization, the energy of our cohort directly fed off the massive level of engagement and support we received from ODU faculty, Student Activities, and the water community,” said David Kibbie, 2022-2024 EESA president. 

Last year, the group hosted guest speakers from the water and environmental engineering community at their bi-weekly meetings. The guests shared their career paths, noteworthy projects and current industry trends.

EESA members also visited Lake Gaston, the primary drinking water source for the City of Virginia Beach. They were joined by city engineers, consulting engineers, and pump station operators, who provided insights into the project's history, including its planning, design, construction, and ongoing operation.

Representatives of the EESA chapter will travel to New Orleans, Louisiana, in October for recognition at WEF’s Technical Exhibition and Conference.

“We think it is important to instill a sense of community and a spirit of service in our members,” said Coffield. “We hope our impact is that we become a generation of professionals who have the knowledge and connections needed to make positive changes to their communities and the world.”

Learn more about the EESA here.