College of Engineering
Tennessee Tech College of Engineering Honors Tania Datta as 2023 T.S. McCord Fellow in Innovation and Techno-Entrepreneurship
Tennessee Tech University’s College of Engineering has named Tania Datta, associate
professor of environmental engineering, the recipient of its 2023 T.S. McCord Fellow
in Innovation and Techno-Entrepreneurship Award. Datta was presented the award on
April 25th at the College of Engineering Faculty and Staff Appreciation Luncheon.
The T.S. McCord Fellow in Innovation and Techno-Entrepreneurship Award is a prestigious award that recognizes an outstanding engineering faculty member who demonstrates a deep compassion for students.
Datta, who holds a doctorate in civil and environmental engineering from the University of Utah, was recognized for her dedication to the academic, professional and personal growth of Tech students across a broad range of disciplines, including civil and environmental engineering, chemical engineering, environmental sciences and other programs.
Datta teaches complex, interdisciplinary concepts in environmental engineering while involving students in active scientific discussions on environmental issues and challenges, critical thinking, long-term experiments, and in gaining real world experience, helping students to develop unique skill sets they might not develop elsewhere. She involves both undergraduate and graduate students in her research, with many of them winning a variety of regional and national awards.
Aside from her superior teaching, Datta volunteers her time to help several senior design and capstone projects in civil, chemical and mechanical engineering, as well as computer science. She is known as a dedicated and thoughtful advisor, particularly to at-risk students who need additional support and is a major advocate for underrepresented students.
Beyond the classroom, Datta spends countless hours planning and engaging students in meaningful service activities including local, regional and international service projects that address university to global community needs. Her efforts have included environmental clean-up days, Water for Life events, and international outreach in Southern Belize; advising students in Tech’s Water Professionals group and Engineers Without Borders; and helping female engineering students initiate a student group for women in civil and environmental engineering. Dr.
“Dr. Datta has proven to be a major champion for Tennessee Tech students,” said Joseph C. Slater, dean of the College of Engineering. “Her passion for teaching and commitment to student success is inspiring and unmatched. She succeeds in making learning enjoyable by bringing her passion and enthusiasm for her field to the classroom with creative, project-based instruction and hands-on learning. She is an exceptional educator and we are grateful for all she has done and continues to do for her students and the community.”
College of Engineering Newsroom
