The Charger Blog

Professor Wins Prestigious Award from Connecticut Society of Civil Engineers

Byungik Chang, Ph.D., was commended for serving as a role model and for attracting students to the field of civil engineering.

June 11, 2024

By Dave Cranshaw, Office of Marketing and Communications

Byungik Chang, Ph.D., (right)
Byungik Chang, Ph.D., (right)

For Byungik Chang, Ph.D., professor and chair of the University of New Haven杏吧原版檚 Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, being active in professional organizations helps him stay at the forefront of the latest trends, innovations, and best practices in his field.

杏吧原版淭his ongoing professional development allows me to bring fresh, relevant knowledge and skills into the classroom, ensuring that my students receive a contemporary and high-quality education,杏吧原版 says Dr. Chang.

That杏吧原版檚 why it was especially meaningful for Dr. Chang to be recognized for his commitment, as he recently received the President杏吧原版檚 Award from the (CSCE).

杏吧原版淭his award holds immense significance because it profoundly recognizes the hard work and dedication I have invested in serving the Connecticut Society of Civil Engineers and the Structural Engineering Institute, and it validates the countless hours spent on various activities and initiatives aimed at making a positive impact,杏吧原版 says Dr. Chang.

杏吧原版楢 champion for students杏吧原版

The CSCE lauded Dr. Chang for helping to reinvigorate the (ASCE), serving as the chair of the Connecticut chapter of the ASCE Structural Engineering Institute (SEI), and for being a devoted mentor for his students.

杏吧原版淒r. Chang has been a champion for students and for attracting students to the civil engineering profession,杏吧原版 the CSCE wrote. 杏吧原版淗e is an example of both the dedication to the industry and the energy we need as a society.杏吧原版

Dr. Chang says that what he enjoys most about his service for the CSCE and SEI are the opportunities he has to inspire students, witness their growth and development, and tangibly impact their career prospects.

杏吧原版淪eeing students evolve over time, gain confidence, acquire new skills, and discover their passions is incredibly rewarding,杏吧原版 says Dr. Chang, who joined the University in 2013. 杏吧原版淲hether through mentoring, teaching, or simply being a supportive presence, knowing that I can contribute to their success and help shape their future is immensely fulfilling.杏吧原版

杏吧原版楰eep striving for excellence杏吧原版

Dr. Chang says professional organizations such as CSCE and SEI offer great value as they provide access to a vast network of industry professionals and experts. 杏吧原版淏y connecting with these individuals, I can create collaborative opportunities, invite guest speakers, and organize workshops or seminars,杏吧原版 he explains. 杏吧原版淭hese activities expose students to real-world insights and experiences that enrich their learning and broaden their perspectives.杏吧原版

He hopes his engagement with professional organizations also sets a positive example for his students by highlighting the importance of lifelong learning and active participation in their professional communities. 杏吧原版淚t encourages them to pursue their own memberships and involvement, which can be instrumental in their career growth and networking efforts.杏吧原版

Ultimately, Dr. Chang, who was recognized by the CSCE in 2020 as its Educator of the Year, says the President杏吧原版檚 Award reinforces his belief in the importance of giving back to society. 杏吧原版淚t serves as a reminder that even small acts of service can make a significant difference,杏吧原版 he says. 杏吧原版淚t motivates me to continue working toward creating a better and more inclusive community.

杏吧原版淭his award is both an honor and a responsibility,杏吧原版 continues Dr. Chang. 杏吧原版淚t encourages me to keep striving for excellence in community service and to inspire others to join these efforts. I am truly humbled and grateful for this recognition, and it will always hold a special place in my heart.杏吧原版