1/30/2013 Bill Bowman 2 min read
Written by Bill Bowman
"The MechSE Department is extremely proud of Christine and Val's accomplishments and contributions to the department and college," said Emad Jassim, MechSE's director of undergraduate programs. "They have not only made significant contributions in their fellow students' experience through student society involvement, but they have also made significant strides in attracting prospective students to the department."
The tradition of celebrating St. Patrick's Day on engineering campuses began in 1903 at the University of Missouri, Columbia. The University of Illinois tradition began in 1950 at the University of Illinois with the selection of the first set of Knights. Knights are selected from undergraduates with at least a 2.5 GPA who show strong leadership in their department, the College, and their profession.
"It’s a huge honor," Littrell said. "I was very elated to know the news that I would be among the other Knights that have graced this university."
The tradition of the Knights pulling pranks on the College administration is a continued tradition, reflecting the conflict with administrators that surrounded the first participants in the St. Patrick’s celebration. Engineering students from Illinois also honor St. Patrick by presenting Engineering Open House and St. Pat’s Ball.
"I was really excited when I heard I was selected," Laguna said. "I couldn’t stop smiling!"
Both students have recently been featured in articles on the I-STEM website; read more about Christine Littrell and Val Laguna.