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Professor Inducted as a Distinguished Member of ASCE
By
Erin D. McKenzie
Photo by Thomas Shea
Photo by Thomas Shea

Jerry R. Rogers, associate professor of civil and environmental engineering, was presented with one of the American Society of Civil Engineers highest national honors at the ASCE 2008 Annual Conference in Pittsburgh, Pa. in November.

In a formal ceremony, Rogers was inducted as a Distinguished Member of ASCE, the oldest engineering society in the United States. The position is second only to the ASCE president.

Rogers, who has served the Cullen College for 38 years, was among 11 chosen for the honor this year, making him one of 565 engineers in the organization’s 156-year history to receive the title.

“It is a pretty select group,” Rogers said. “I feel honored to be considered and selected to receive this.”

Distinguished Members, formerly called honorary members, have attained acknowledged distinction in a branch of engineering, engineering education or sciences. A letter of recommendation, written on Rogers behalf, begins to describe why he was among the few selected.

“From work as a design engineer in water resources, to engineering professor, to national professional leaderships, to community service, Dr. Rogers is an ideal example for all future civil engineers,” the letter reads.

During his more than 40-year career in water resources and engineering education, Rogers’ research has focused on storm water management, urban growth planning, drainage engineering, water distribution and water resource systems. His expertise in these areas has assisted the cities of Pearland, Conroe, Houston and others with planning.

Throughout the nearly four decades he has been involved with ASCE, he has served in roles that include Dallas branch board member, Houston branch president, Texas section president and district director. From 1992-95 he served as national board member and as the national vice president on the ASCE Executive Committee from 2001-03.This is in addition to efforts to lead publications for seven ASCE National Engineering History symposiums and the founding of the Environmental and Water Resources Institute.

His achievements have led him to be recognized with several honors from ASCE throughout his career. These include the William H. Wisely American Civil Engineer Award and recognition as a Fellow of ASCE in 1997 and a Life Member in 2006. In October, Rogers was presented with the Texas Section ASCE 2008 Lifetime Achievement Award.

Rogers graduated with honors from the University of Arkansas with a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering, and went on to earn his masters in environmental engineering at the university. He later attended Northwestern University where he earned a Ph.D. in civil engineering.

Watch the ASCE video honoring Prof. Jerry Rogers.

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