(ANGOLA) - A Trine University professor is stepping into a major national leadership role in chemical engineering education. Dr. Amanda Malefyt, a professor in Trine's McKetta Department of Chemical and Bioprocess Engineering, has been elected a director within the Education Division of the American Institute of Chemical Engineers, or AIChE. Her four-year term began this month. The appointment recognizes Malefyt's work in innovative teaching, engineering pedagogy and student outreach. She previously served as the Education Division's liaison to AIChE's K-12 Committee -- a role she'll continue alongside her new position.
Malefyt says she's honored by the election and excited to share the teaching strategies used at Trine with educators across the country. She says the position also allows her to help develop the next generation of engineering faculty and inspire future chemical engineers. The Education Division of AIChE supports curriculum innovation, research, and collaboration across the chemical engineering education community. As one of four directors, Malefyt will help guide long-term planning and national programming and coordinate the division's goals with AIChE's broader mission. Trine University officials say her expertise in undergraduate teaching and K-12 outreach makes her a strong fit for the national role.