MACON, Ga. — Mercer University School of Engineering rising senior Cynthia Gaddam has been awarded a Tau Beta Pi scholarship for the 2025-26 academic year and will receive an award of $2,000 for her senior year of engineering study.
“This award is a reflection of the people who’ve guided and uplifted me throughout my journey,” Gaddam said. “I’m excited to continue growing both personally and professionally as I pursue a career in engineering.”
Tau Beta Pi is the world’s largest engineering society. Scholarships are awarded to members entering their senior year of study based on the competitive criteria of high scholarship, campus leadership and service, and promise of future contributions to the engineering profession.
“Cynthia’s selection as a Tau Beta Pi Fellow is a testament to her exceptional academic achievements, leadership and commitment to engineering excellence,” said Dr. Laura W. Lackey, dean of the School of Engineering. “We are incredibly proud of her and the recognition she has earned from one of the most respected engineering honor societies.”
From Sugar Hill, Gaddam serves as a math preceptor and the recording secretary for Tau Beta Pi at Mercer. She has received multiple math honor awards, including calculus I, II, III and the Legacy Preceptor Award. After graduation, she plans to pursue a master’s degree in mechanical engineering with a minor in engineering management through Mercer’s 4+1 program.
“I am passionate about applying the engineering skills I’ve learned to develop innovative, interdisciplinary solutions that create a meaningful impact on both communities and industries,” she said.
Gaddam conducts research under Assistant Professor of Biomedical Engineering Dr. Joanna Thomas.
“Cynthia is a fantastic example of a Mercer engineer (technically ‘engineer-to-be’),” said Dr. Thomas.
“She has grown so much as a researcher and person in the two years that I have worked with her. She is meticulous in lab and laser-focused in class. That combination will certainly equate to her finding success beyond Mercer after she completes her master’s degree. I’m excited to see where the next two years take her in the lab.”
