Grace Rushing
Even before Grace Rushing (BA 11, BSCE 15, MS 16) graduated from the University of Mississippi, she sensed she would return to her alma mater one day – not as a student but as a faculty member.
Starting in August 2017, the Union native indeed became an instructor in the Department of Civil Engineering.
“I decided to apply because I was very passionate about both civil engineering and teaching,” Rushing said. “This position provided a way to do both of those. Additionally, the work environment from the departmental level all the way through the School of Engineering to the university as a whole is a very supportive and welcoming one.”
At UM, Rushing earned her bachelor’s degree in English in 2011, her bachelor’s degree in civil engineering in 2015 and her Master of Science in engineering science in 2016.
Her research interests include nanomaterials, particularly graphene, and how they can improve the properties, e.g., mechanical, thermal, electrical, of a wide range of other materials.
Since last fall, Rushing has taught Intro to Civil Engineering I and II, Intro to Structural Mechanics, Environmental Engineering and three civil engineering labs. In the past, she taught Structural Analysis and Soil Mechanics. She received the UM chapter of the American Society of Civil Engineers Excellence in Teaching Award in 2018.
“Receiving that award from the students has been the most satisfying professional achievement I’ve had thus far,” said Rushing, who serves as the chapter’s faculty adviser. “This year, they worked hard and did an excellent job – placing in the top third of all student chapters nationwide with their annual report. They also placed in the top half of their regional concrete canoe competition.”
Rushing said her career goals are to continue to improve her teaching skills by attending workshops and seminars and pursuing certifications, among other things.
“Where applicable, I incorporate relevant current events and issues relating to civil engineering into my classes so that my students are not only technically proficient but also understand how the work that they do as civil engineers impacts the public,” she said. “I will continue to support and volunteer for K-12 outreach activities (e.g., annual catapult competition, engineering summer camps) in an effort to introduce students to engineering and encourage them to consider Ole Miss once they graduate.”
Rushing was a “much-needed addition to the civil engineering family,” said Jacob Najjar, chair and professor of civil engineering.
“Her excellent educational background and outstanding personality have immensely helped our department in maintaining its mission in teaching excellence,” Najjar said. “Our students truly enjoy her teaching style and benefit greatly from her devotion to teaching and service.”
Rushing and her husband, Joshua, are remodeling their home. They also enjoy spending time with their family and friends.