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Dr. Steven Girardot Elected President-Elect of UERU

Dr. Steven Girardot, vice provost for Undergraduate Education and Student Success, has been named President-elect of the Association for Undergraduate Education at Research Universities (UERU), a national organization comprised of R1 and R2 research university leaders committed to excellence in undergraduate education.

Dr. Steven Girardot, vice provost for Undergraduate Education and Student Success, has been named President-elect of the Association for Undergraduate Education at Research Universities (UERU), a national organization comprised of R1 and R2 research university leaders committed to excellence in undergraduate education. UERU (pronounced “yoo-roo”) includes a national network of Undergraduate Vice Provosts/Presidents (UVPs) who have expertise in the theory and practice of undergraduate education. Dr. Girardot will begin his leadership role at UERU’s Fall 2025 UVP meeting in October. 

“Dr. Girardot was elected by his peers to serve a three-year term on UERU’s Board, including as President & Board Chair in 2026-27,” said Dr. Steve Dandaneau, Executive Director, Association for Undergraduate Education at Research Universities. “Few research university leaders have contributed more than him to strengthening undergraduate education. Few have done more to strengthen and support UERU as well.” 

Dr. Girardot has served as vice provost for Undergraduate Education and Student Success since 2022, having previously served as associate vice provost for Undergraduate Education from 2012-22. As vice provost, he provides campuswide leadership for all aspects of undergraduate education, including undergraduate advising, retention and completion, general education (Core IMPACTS), and academic policies for undergraduates. He also oversees the Office of Undergraduate Education and Student Success (OUESS), which includes Academic Success and Advising (ASA), the Office of Student Achievement (OSA), the Office of Experiential and Engaged Learning (E2L), the Career Center, the John H. Martinson Honors Program (JMHP), and Georgia Tech’s 2025 Quality Enhancement Plan (QEP), Leaders in Progress and Service. He helped launch and continues to lead the First-Year Semester Abroad (FYSA) Program, in collaboration with the Office of International Education (OIE). A Georgia Tech alumnus, Dr. Girardot holds a Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering and a Master of Science in Chemistry from the Institution. He earned a doctorate in chemistry and a Master of Public Health in Epidemiology from Emory University, and his research area was at the intersection of chemistry and environmental health. 

“I am honored to be elected President-elect of UERU, a role that allows me to collaborate with colleagues across the nation who are deeply committed to advancing undergraduate education and student success,” said Dr. Girardot. “This leadership opportunity will not only enrich my work at Georgia Tech by bringing new perspectives and best practices to our campus but also contribute to shaping the broader conversation around the undergraduate experience in higher education.” 

UERU currently includes 138 member institutions, collectively serving nearly 3 million undergraduate students. The organization is dedicated to fostering connections among leaders in undergraduate academic affairs, sharing best practices, and promoting innovation in teaching, advising, curricular design, and student success. More information may be found on the UERU website.

Invent Your Future: How Georgia Tech is Championing Student Innovation

At Georgia Tech, innovation is embedded in the student experience, and a growing number of students are arriving at Tech already thinking like entrepreneurs. Now they can find support from a network of programs across campus offering opportunities to turn “what if” into “what’s next.”

At Georgia Tech, innovation is embedded in the student experience, and a growing number of students are arriving at Tech already thinking like entrepreneurs. Now they can find support from a network of programs across campus offering opportunities to turn “what if” into “what’s next.” 

“Students no longer see themselves as just good employees, but really good employers,” said Dr. Christopher Reaves, assistant vice provost for Undergraduate Education and Student Success (OUESS) and executive director of the Office of Experiential and Engaged Learning (E2L).

The Student Innovation Program, a part of E2L, focuses specifically on helping students explore entrepreneurship. This program supports students at every stage, guiding them through prototyping, protecting their intellectual property, and pitching for funding.

Olga Kotlyar, assistant director of Student Innovation and Entrepreneurship, has seen firsthand how this kind of support fuels creativity at Georgia Tech. “You get what you celebrate,” she says. “So, if you celebrate innovation on campus, students will want to be part of that.”

Innovation in Action

Convexity supporters sit in the audience at the 2025 InVenture Prize Competition.
Convexity supporters sit in the audience at the 2025 InVenture Prize Competition.

That celebration of innovation that Kotlyar describes comes to life through events like the InVenture Prize, a televised student pitch competition that was launched in 2009 and is open to all undergraduate students and recent graduates of Georgia Tech. Each year, six finalist teams showcase their prototypes in a Shark Tank-style format, competing for a $20,000 grand prize and automatic acceptance into the next cohort of CREATE-X’s Startup Launch program.

Convexity Electronics took home first place in 2025, and for Calla Scotch, the team’s founder and lead technical developer, the moment represented both a victory and the culmination of a journey shaped by Tech’s Innovation Ecosystem. 

“The most memorable part was standing on stage, looking out at the audience, and seeing a sea of Convexity T-shirts,” the mechanical engineering and materials science student said. “I’ve become a TA for startup classes, done InVenture Prize, gone through Learn Make and Launch — all in the pursuit of building a future with my own two hands.” 

Building an Entrepreneurial Community 

Recognizing that innovation doesn’t begin or end with a single pitch, the Student Innovation Program has expanded their offerings with two brand-new initiatives in 2025: Startups & Strikes and the MiniVenture Pitch Competition. 

Startups & Strikes is a relaxed networking event that’s designed to spark conversations, build community, and help students find potential cofounders, all while introducing them to campus resources like Georgia Tech Commercialization and Startup Exchange. 

MiniVenture gives students a chance to practice pitching in a low-pressure environment. With Georgia Tech-affiliated judges and friendly feedback, it’s ideal for students who are just starting out and want to build confidence before stepping into a formal competition. 

As Kotlyar puts it, “This is the perfect place for trial and error.” 

A Culture of Innovation 

Convexity team members at the 2026 InVenture Prize Kickoff.
Convexity team members at the 2026 InVenture Prize Kickoff.

The Student Innovation Program draws purpose from the Institute’s Strategic Plan, particularly Big Bet 4, which focuses on building a national hub for innovation and entrepreneurship. The plan calls for quadrupling the number of startups created since 2019 and making Atlanta a top five startup city. And for students like Calla Scotch, that vision is already taking shape.

“Instead of following the traditional tracks laid out for us, the Student Innovation Program gives us the space to turn projects into ventures and ideas into a future,” says Scotch. “You can’t get that anywhere else. Especially as an undergraduate.” 

Have an idea but you aren’t sure where to start? Click here to explore Georgia Tech’s Innovation Ecosystem, and connect with mentors, fellow makers, and more.

New Experiential Learning Showcase Format Supports Student Exploration

The Office of Experiential and Engaged Learning (E2L) hosted its second annual Experiential Learning Showcase on Sept. 12 in Exhibition Hall. A total of 221 students were in attendance, marking a substantial increase compared to last year’s 130 participants and…

Students explored a wide range of hands-on learning opportunities available at Georgia Tech.

“Attendees were guided through the event, being asked to consider their interests and encouraged to take notes throughout the three rooms,” explained Dr. Sarah Brackmann, director of Community-Based Learning. “Students were able to leave with names of contacts and a plan for their next steps, empowering them to take action.”

The guided portion began with a worksheet prompting students to consider their personal goals and interests. They then moved through a series of rooms where E2L staff helped them connect those goals to relevant experiential learning programs and pathways. Afterward, students entered the main exhibition space to speak directly with representatives from student organizations, academic initiatives, research groups, and offices supporting global learning, sustainability, entrepreneurship, and leadership development.

The showcase will continue to be held annually in the fall, with future events building on this year’s structure and student feedback.

E2L serves as the hub for Georgia Tech’s hands-on learning programs, first-year and transfer seminars, and campus learning communities. Students interested in experiential learning can learn more by visiting the E2L website. 

Dr. David MacNair Joins OUESS as Director, Undergraduate Co-op and Internship Programs

We are pleased to announce that Dr. David MacNair has joined OUESS as the Director of Undergraduate Co-op and Internship Programs, part of the Office of Experiential and Engaged Learning (E2L). David comes from 10 years as the Director of…

We are pleased to announce that Dr. David MacNair has joined OUESS as the Director of Undergraduate Co-op and Internship Programs, part of the Office of Experiential and Engaged Learning (E2L). David comes from 10 years as the Director of Laboratory Development and then Director of Interactive Learning for the George Woodruff School of Mechanical Engineering, where he maintains a 25% joint appointment. 

As the Director of Undergraduate Co-op and Internship Programs, David will focus operationally on increasing student work experiences, optimizing/enhancing the registration process, and strategically building greater partnerships across all of OUESS and campus academic units to better leverage co-op and internship work experience as part of wider student experiential learning progressions. David will also serve on the Career Center leadership team. 

Before working in Mechanical Engineering, David worked as a research engineer at Georgia Tech Research Institute and Oak Ridge National Laboratory and did consulting work with educational support companies. He was at Georgia Tech for his entire educational career (Undergrad in Mechanical Engineering through a PhD in Robotics) and was even on campus for the first 3 years of his life while his parents were both finishing degrees in Mechanical Engineering.

David loves board games and outdoor activities including kayaking/boating, hiking, caving, mountain biking, etc. and will take any opportunity to introduce others to these passions.

Please join us in welcoming David to OUESS!

Fall 2025 All-Majors Career Fair Draws Thousands to the CRC

The Fall 2025 All-Majors Career Fair once again proved why it’s one of the most anticipated events of the semester. 7,832 students attended the two-day event at the Campus Recreation Center (CRC), with the line to enter wrapping around the…

7,832 students packed the Campus Recreation Center for Georgia Tech’s Fall 2025 All-Majors Career Fair, connecting with 1,067 recruiters from 247 companies across a variety of industries. Thanks to resume reviews, a virtual prep session, and the Career Fair Plus app, students came prepared to prioritize employers and make lasting impressions.

The Georgia Tech Career Center welcomed 1,067 recruiters from 247 companies, offering students co-op, internship, and full-time career opportunities in industries including aerospace, biotechnology, cybersecurity, IT, communications, nonprofits, and more. 

To help students stand out in a sea of Yellow Jackets, the Career Center hosted a virtual career fair prep session on Sept. 4, drawing 63 students. Another 890 students joined in-person resume reviews on Sept. 4 and 5. 

With hundreds of companies represented, taking time to research and prioritize which employers to approach can help students focus their efforts and tailor their conversations more effectively. This year, the Career Center incorporated the Career Fair Plus app, which allowed students to share their resume with employers of interest, view an interactive map, and filter opportunities based on their goals. Several students leaving the career fair shared that preparing in advance, especially by reviewing the list of recruiters attending, made it easier to connect with the right companies and leave a lasting impression. 

“Little things make a big difference in the job search, specifically, who gets selected,” said Laura Garcia, director of Undergraduate Career Education. “The candidates that stand out, and are often selected for interviews, do a little more by interacting with the target employer through career fairs, info sessions, and networking with those currently in the company.” 

 

 

The Career Center offers a variety of services to help students no matter where they are in their career search journeys.

Looking Ahead 

Want to get a head start on preparing for the next career fair? Click here for a list of upcoming fairs. Students can also visit the Career Center website to find a wide variety of job search, resume building, and interview prep resources to help no matter where you are in your career search journey.

 

Jo Beth Cup Assumes the Role of Associate Vice Provost for Undergraduate Operations

The Office of Undergraduate Education and Student Success (OUESS) is pleased to announce that Jo Beth Cup has assumed the role of Associate Vice Provost for Undergraduate Operations, effective September 1, 2025. Jo Beth joined Georgia Tech in February 2023…

The Office of Undergraduate Education and Student Success (OUESS) is pleased to announce that Jo Beth Cup has assumed the role of Associate Vice Provost for Undergraduate Operations, effective September 1, 2025.

 

Jo Beth joined Georgia Tech in February 2023 as the inaugural Senior Director of Strategic Initiatives and Operations, where she brought nearly 30 years of experience in higher education administration. Her leadership has played a pivotal role in strengthening OUESS’s administrative operations, prioritizing organizational culture, and advancing its strategic priorities in alignment with the Institute’s Strategic Plan.

In her new role, Jo Beth will continue to serve as deputy to the Vice Provost for Undergraduate Education and Student Success on operational and administrative matters, lead the OUESS Strategic Alignment Plan, oversee initiatives that support employee engagement, and guide the division’s operations as it embraces growth and new opportunities that will further advance student success at Georgia Tech.

Please join us in congratulating Jo Beth on her new role and in celebrating her ongoing contributions to the success of our students and the Georgia Tech community.

Dr. Jaime Caperton Joins OUESS as Academic Program Manager I

We are pleased to announce that Dr. Jaime Caperton has joined Academic Success and Advising as Academic Program Manager I for Pre-Health Advising. Jaime will provide support and guidance to Georgia Tech undergraduate, graduate and alumni pursuing careers in medicine…

 We are pleased to announce that Dr. Jaime Caperton has joined Academic Success and Advising as Academic Program Manager I for Pre-Health Advising. Jaime will provide support and guidance to Georgia Tech undergraduate, graduate and alumni pursuing careers in medicine. Her contributions and role will be integral to the ongoing programming, event planning, and development of resources aimed to support the Georgia Tech pre-health community.  

Jaime earned an Ed.D. in student affairs leadership from the University of Georgia, a master’s degree in educational leadership, and a bachelor’s degree in child and youth studies from Florida Gulf Coast University. Her dissertation focused on women in STEM and how their participation in major-focused student organizations shaped their sense of belonging, retention, and academic persistence.

Jaime began her career in higher education as an academic advisor at the University of Georgia, where she supported students majoring in engineering. She later transitioned to advising students in exercise and sport science and sport management. During this time, Jaime found she enjoyed helping those with an interest in the health professions, which inspired her to focus exclusively on supporting this population. Her time as an academic advisor sparked a passion for empowering students to achieve their personal and professional goals, while encouraging them to take full advantage of the opportunities available to them throughout their college experience.

In her spare time, Jaime enjoys spending time with family, reading, working out, attending sporting events, and traveling.

Please join us in welcoming Jaime to ASA and OUESS!

38 Georgia Tech Students Selected as 2025 Millennium Fellows

Thirty-eight Georgia Tech students have been selected for the prestigious 2025 Class of the Millennium Fellowship, a global leadership program jointly organized by the United Nations Academic Impact (UNAI) and the Millennium Campus Network (MCN). These exceptional students were chosen…

 Thirty-eight Georgia Tech students have been selected for the prestigious 2025 Class of the Millennium Fellowship, a global leadership program jointly organized by the United Nations Academic Impact (UNAI) and the Millennium Campus Network (MCN). These exceptional students were chosen for their commitment to advancing the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the UNAI Principles in their communities.

The Millennium Fellowship is a semester-long program that convenes, challenges, and celebrates student leadership for the UN’s global goals. The application process for the Class of 2025 was very competitive, and a record-breaking 60,000+ applicants from over 7,500 campuses across the world applied. Of those, only 290+ campuses (just 4%) in 47 countries were selected to host more than 4,000 Millennium Fellows this year.

The Millennium Fellowship Class of 2025 brings together undergraduates recognized for their leadership in sustainable development projects. These students are united by a common goal: to further the United Nations SDGs within their local communities. As part of the fellowship, they will participate in a semester-long leadership training designed to enhance their skills in organizing, building partnerships, and driving meaningful community impact.

Georgia Tech’s participation in the 2025 Millennium Fellowship underscores the Institute’s focus on cultivating leaders who are dedicated to addressing pressing global challenges. The 38 Georgia Tech Fellows will work on a wide variety of projects, from promoting quality education and reducing inequalities to advancing climate action and leveraging technology for social good, reflecting the Institute’s deep commitment to fostering positive, global change.

We are so proud of the newly announced cohorts of Georgia Tech Millennium Fellows,” said Dr. Georgia Brunner, Prestigious Fellowships advisor at Georgia Tech. “For the first time, we’ve had enough recipients of the award to necessitate two cohorts of students. Not only does this recognition illustrate the commitment Georgia Tech students have to sustainable development, but it also gives us insight into what amazing things these 38 students might do next.

Congratulations to the 38 Georgia Tech students selected as Millennium Fellows for the Class of 2025. Their dedication to advancing the United Nations SDGs and UNAI Principles is an inspiration, and their projects are set to make a lasting impact on their communities and beyond.

Georgia Tech Millennium Fellows for the Class of 2025

Cohort A:
  • Aastha Singh
  • Aditi Venkatesh
  • Akshaya Poonepalle
  • Anna Rosner
  • Charles Anderson
  • Daeun Lee
  • Diyanah Jilani
  • Hannah Koppel
  • Jonathan Feldman
  • Kiran Kapileshwari
  • Kunal Ponkshe
  • Madeline Weller
  • Malvika Sawant
  • Priyanka Joseph
  • Rasagna Vuppala
  • Sarvesh Tiku
  • Shalin Bhatia
  • Sneha Vashistha
  • Thanmayee Kavuri
Cohort B:
  • Akarshana Arunkumar
  • Alexandria Aromolaran
  • Chelsea Ekwegh
  • Gauri Sharma
  • Harshin Vijay
  • Ishita Raghuvanshi
  • Ishita Sukul
  • Jordanne Stewart
  • Kavitha Kuppuswamy
  • Lakshana Ramanan
  • Maryam Aamir
  • Nihanth Pinnaka
  • Radeen Dixon
  • Saif Aslam
  • Seth Kinoshita
  • Shivani Murugapiran
  • Shreya Iyer
  • Thomas Chin
  • Vidhi Kulkarni

How to Apply for This Fellowship and More

Students interested in applying for the Millennium Fellowship can learn more about the Class of 2025 and application details on the Millennium Fellowship website. Additionally, students can contact Georgia Brunner at fellowshipsadvising@gatech.edu or visit the Prestigious Fellowships website.

Five Events for Undergraduate Students This Fall

A new semester means new opportunities to learn, grow, and get connected across campus. The Office of Undergraduate Education and Student Success (OUESS) offers a full schedule of events designed to help you make the most of your time at…

 

A new semester means new opportunities to learn, grow, and get connected across campus. The Office of Undergraduate Education and Student Success (OUESS) offers a full schedule of events designed to help you make the most of your time at Georgia Tech, and each semester we highlight a few of those that you won’t want to miss. From career and research opportunities to a campus-wide study session, check out five of our upcoming events! 

Fall 2025 All Majors Career Fair 

September 8 – 9, 10:00am – 4:00pm, Campus Recreation Center (CRC) 

Hosted by the Career Center 

Make the most of networking opportunities at Georgia Tech’s largest career fair! Companies at the fair are looking to hire for co-ops, internships, and even full-time positions. Feeling a little nervous? Join the virtual Career Fair Prep session on September 4 to brush up on your networking skills or get feedback during Resume Reviews on September 4 and September 5. You can also reach out to the Career Center directly for help to make sure you’re putting your best foot forward. Speaking of feet, please note that soft-soled shoes are required for entry at this year’s fair.  

EVENT DETAILS 

Experiential Learning Showcase  

September 12, 1:00pm – 3:00pm, Exhibition Hall (Midtown Ballroom) 

Hosted by the Office of Experiential & Engaged Learning 

Interested in hands-on and experiential learning opportunities but not sure where to start? The Experiential Learning Showcase is here to help you take the next step in your experiential learning journey. Learn about the Undergraduate Research Opportunities Program, Co-Ops & Internships, Study Abroad, Community Based Learning, Innovation & Entrepreneurship, and more.  

EVENT DETAILS 

MiniVenture Pitch Competition 

September 30, 4:00pm – 6:00pm, Centergy 

Hosted by the Office of Experiential & Engaged Learning 

Have a bold idea or project you’re passionate about? The inaugural MiniVenture Pitch Competition invites undergraduate students from all majors to share your innovations in a fun, fast-paced event. Teams will pitch to a panel of judges and peers for a chance to win cash prizes, gain valuable feedback, and connect with Georgia Tech’s entrepreneurial community. To participate, each teammate must be a fully enrolled Georgia Tech undergraduate student, team members must be from at least two different majors, and your team should have no more than seven members. Visit the link below to learn more and register to pitch. 

EVENT DETAILS 

OSA Launch & Open House  

TBD 

Hosted by the Office of Student Achievement 

The OSA Launch & Welcome Event is a campus-wide celebration introducing Georgia Tech students to the new Office of Student Achievement. Join us for an afternoon of interactive games, music, free food, swag giveaways, and program tabling, all designed to connect you with resources to support your academic, professional, and personal growth. Whether you’re looking for coaching, co-op support, or a place to study, OSA is your new home for student success. Originally scheduled for August 21, the event was postponed due to inclement weather. Check back soon for an updated date and time! 

EVENT DETAILS 

Studypalooza! 

December 3, 9:00am – 7:00pm, Clough Auditoriums 

Hosted by Academic Success and Advising 

Need help with a tough problem set or just want to study alongside others? Studypalooza is Tutoring’s largest end-of-semester study event, and it’s designed to get you ready for finals in a collaborative environment. Our review sessions focus on high-demand courses like Math, Physics, Chemistry, Organic Chemistry, and Computer Science. With support from Teaching Assistants, tutors, PLUS leaders, and instructors, Studypalooza is a campus-wide effort to help you feel confident heading into your exams. 

EVENT DETAILS