Pictured left to right: Sukrati Gautam, Jorge Martinez, Waire Olawolu and Brian Magnuson

Two current EPICS teaching assistants (TAs), Waire Olawolu and Brian Magnuson, were recognized by the Purdue University College of Engineering for exceptional graduate work.

Olawolu (MSCE '22), who is pursuing a doctorate in civil engineering, was the recipient of the 2026 Estus H. and Vashti L. Magoon Award for Excellence in Teaching. The award uplifts TAs who have had substantial influences within the courses they instruct and the students they aid, in memory of the namesake engineering educators. As an awardee, Olawolu receives $2,000, a certificate, public recognition and inclusion in an event-produced video.

"EPICS has given me so much more than a TA experience," said Olawolu. "Across four labs, I've had the privilege of working alongside students tackling societally impactful projects. But what's been especially meaningful is what EPICS made possible beyond that: the opportunity to co-advise the EPICS Lakota team and serve as instructor of record. That team is building a solar-powered greenhouse with hydroponics systems to support food security and renewable energy on the Pine Ridge Reservation and being trusted with a deeper role in that work has been incredibly fulfilling."

Magnuson (BSCE '23) was presented with the 2026 College of Engineering Outstanding Service Scholarship, which recognizes graduate students whose service has been invaluable to the graduate student community, the school, the College of Engineering or Purdue at large. Sponsored by the College of Engineering Graduate Education Office, Magnuson received public recognition, a certificate, inclusion in an event-specific video and $2,000. Magnuson is pursuing a doctorate in civil engineering with a concentration in architectural engineering.

Two former EPICS TAs were also recognized with the 2026 Estus H. and Vashti L. Magoon Award for Excellence in Teaching and the 2026 College of Engineering Outstanding Service Scholarship — Sukrati Gautam and Sukriti Shaw, respectively.