U.Va. Engineering School Holds Annual Open House for Public

February 18, 2008 -- What do engineers do?

The University of Virginia's School of Engineering and Applied Science will share with the public the wonders of engineering at its annual Open House on Saturday, Feb. 23 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Thornton Hall.

The event allows visitors — prospective students, parents, educators and others who are interested in engineering — to meet faculty and staff; interact with current students; take tours of buildings, labs and classrooms; and visit interesting exhibits that highlight faculty and student research projects. All events are free and open to the public.

The day's activities will include a presentation by former astronaut Kathy Thornton on the "Sights and Sounds of Space Flight." In addition, Larry G. Richards, a professor of mechanical and aerospace Engineering, will speak about “Engineering Greats” — engineering professionals who have made significant contributions to the modern world, and Paxton Marshall, professor and associate dean of undergraduate programs, will speak about admission to the Engineering School.

Exhibits will feature an animated tutorial about atoms, an investigation into medical robotics and a presentation about wireless cars, smart travel and the future of transportation.

The school's Center for Diversity in Engineering will also host special programs and information sessions.

If you are thinking about engineering as a career or know someone who is, mark your calendars and plan to attend the family-friendly Engineering Open House. No pre-registration is necessary. Schedules and maps will be distributed at the registration table in the lobby of Thornton Hall on the day of the event.

For information and directions visit www.seas.virginia.edu/openhouse/

About the University of Virginia School of Engineering and Applied Science
Founded in 1836, the University of Virginia School of Engineering and Applied Science combines research and educational opportunities at the undergraduate and graduate levels. Within the undergraduate programs, courses in engineering, ethics, mathematics, the sciences and the humanities are available to build a strong foundation for careers in engineering and other professions. Abundant research opportunities complement the curriculum and educate young men and women to become thoughtful leaders in technology and society. At the graduate level, the Engineering School collaborates with the University's highly ranked medical and business schools on interdisciplinary research projects and entrepreneurial initiatives. With a distinguished faculty and a student body of 2,000 undergraduates and 650 graduate students, the Engineering School offers an array of engineering disciplines, including cutting-edge research programs in computer and information science and engineering, bioengineering and nanotechnology. For more information, visit www.seas.virginia.edu.

Media Contact