I want to begin by sharing an observation. It feels like things have returned to “normal” on campus for the first time in quite some time. Seeing faculty, staff and especially students enjoying all that Fitts-Woolard Hall has to offer brings joy to my heart. If you are in Raleigh, I encourage you to take a few minutes to tour Fitts-Woolard Hall. While you are there, walk next door and tour the Hunt library. Both buildings are truly technological marvels. Can’t make it to Raleigh, take a virtual tour of Fitts-Woolard Hall and the ISE Department at go.ncsu.edu/tourFWH.
I would also like to take this time to thank the outgoing advisory board members who have completed their terms this past year. Please give a special thank you to Joe Pleasant, Rashida Hodge and Larry Bowman for their years of service to the board and the Department. This is also a perfect time to welcome our newest board member, Tracy Doaks. As many of you know, Tracy is an ISE Distinguished Alumna (Class of 2016) and graduated from the Department with her bachelor’s in 1990. You can see Tracy’s impressive biography at https://www.ise.ncsu.edu/alumni/alumni-hall-of-fame/#2016.
Speaking on behalf of the ISE advisory board, I want to thank those who supported the Department this past year. Especially those who participated in this year’s Day of Giving. Again, your generosity earned ISE thousands of dollars in additional matching funds from the board and the College. A complete list of everyone who contributed to the Department throughout the 2021-2022 academic year starts on page 30.
In closing, I would again encourage everyone interested in industrial and systems engineering at NC State to find a way to get connected. As part of the Alumni Resources Program, the Department created an excellent “how to volunteer” web page (https://www.ise.ncsu.edu/engagement/volunteer-alumni-engagement-nc-state-ise/) that explains all the non-monetary ways you can give back. Please know that every “time investment” you make pays enormous dividends in our shared future. The web page has an FAQ section that answers many of your questions. If you find something that fits your interests, we welcome your cooperation.
GO PACK!
Stuart Nisbet, BSCSC 1987