Danvers native Lauren Underwood was honored by Governor Deval Patrick in a State House ceremony today
Underwood, a graduating senior majoring in Civil Engineering, was recognized as one of 29 Who Shine - an elite group of students representing the Commonwealth's 29 public college and university students for their academic achievements and civic contributions.
"Each one of these students has a remarkable story to tell," said Governor Patrick. "Collectively, they remind us that investing in them is investing in our future."
"Lauren's story embodies the importance of having access to high-quality, affordable public higher education," Governor Patrick added. "I am pleased to honor her and her efforts with the 29 Who Shine award."
Lauren is a Civil Engineering major and an active member of the UMass Dartmouth community. She is the Lead Ambassador in the Admissions Office, one of the first faces prospective students and families see. She also coordinates the efforts of other student Ambassadors.
Within the Engineering College, Lauren is the student representative on the Civil Engineering Committee and the Undergraduate Engineering Student Council. She is also Secretary of the American Society of Civil Engineers, Chairperson of the NE Regional Concrete Canoe Competition, and a member of Engineers Without Borders.
"Our data tell us that one year after graduation, nine out of every ten public college and university students remain here in Massachusetts, living and working or furthering their studies," said Richard M. Freeland, Commissioner of Higher Education. "These students truly represent the future citizenry and workforce of the state. They are very high caliber, a sign that our future appears to be in good hands."
Lauren is a member of the UMass Dartmouth Wind Ensemble, trip leader in the Outdoor Club and a volunteer at the Worker's Education Program in New Bedford. Upon graduation she will work as a civil engineer at North Star Industries in Methuen.
Each of Massachusetts' 29 public college and university campuses selected its own student honoree for the 29 Who Shine Awards based on criteria established by the Massachusetts Department of Higher Education. Students must demonstrate a strong academic record and have made a contribution to the civic well-being of the Commonwealth. They are required to be Massachusetts residents who intend to remain in state upon graduation.