College of Engineering Alumnus Returns to Lecture on Empowering Hispanic Student Success

Patrice Storey

Alex Lopez

The Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers and the College of Engineering Office of Community and Engagement are excited to host a Hispanic Heritage Month discussion titled "Empowering Hispanic Student Success in Engineering" at 6 p.m. today, Thursday, Oct. 3, in Engineering Hall 209.

Alexander Lopez, now head of the Department of Mathematics and Physical Sciences and director of the new Chemical Engineering Program at Rogers State University, will give the guest lecture.

Additionally, Lopez will be the featured speaker for the College of Engineering Community and Engagement Lecture Series at 3 p.m. today via Zoom:

uark.zoom.us
Meeting ID: 845 7540 8801
Passcode: #&wAf8Kf

It is an honor to welcome Lopez back to campus. His academic accomplishments serve as a testament of perseverance and resilience and a source of empowerment and inspiration to minority students in engineering The College of Engineering is committed to increasing the number of minority students in STEM. SHPE plays a crucial role in helping minoritized students feel like they belong. said Patrice Storey, assistant director of the college's Office of Community and Engagement. In addition, SHPE aims to foster inclusion and a holistic support system through community building, mentorship opportunities, cultural identity, networking and professional development, and leadership opportunities.

Lopez's remarks that his history with the University of Arkansas started with a simple phone call. In the spring of 2007, he spoke with Thomas Carter III, assistant dean of student affairs for the College of Engineering, about pursuing a degree in chemical engineering. "That phone call changed my life," Lopez recalled, noting how the connections he made in SHPE became essential to navigating the rigors of college life.

Alex credits the program not only for his academic success but also for his passion for research, which he discovered through his involvement with his undergraduate advisor, Jamie Hestekin. His love for research eventually led him to pursue a Ph.D. and a career in academia.

Now leading RSU's new Chemical Engineering program, Lopez remains committed to the values instilled in him by being a member of SHPE at the U of A: integrity, community, leadership, service, and collaboration. "The chemical engineering program is the first of its kind at RSU, filled with exciting opportunities. My goal is to empower students to pursue any career they desire within chemical engineering; with the support and guidance they need to succeed. He believes alumni could provide current students with additional mentorship and guidance, helping them transition into careers more effectively.

Lopez's story is an excellent reminder of SHPE's impact on students' lives, serving as a support system and a catalyst for personal and professional growth. His message is clear for those considering joining SHPE: "Don't be afraid to jump in and get involved. Discomfort is often a requirement for personal growth. SHPE taught me more about engineering — and myself — than I could have imagined. The periods of challenge and difficulty you may face often lead to unexpected success."

Lopez received both a bachelor of science degree and a doctorate in philosophy in chemical engineering from the university