Bevlee A. Watford to deliver College of Engineering commencement address as Distinguished Alumni Speaker
After a career of achievements and impact at Virginia Tech, Watford will share her insight on navigating life’s transitions before her retirement this summer.
With a 30-year career at Virginia Tech, “Dr. Watford” is a familiar name to many Hokie engineers. She is best known for her passionate support of students and for pioneering the Center for the Enhancement of Engineering Diversity (CEED).
Ahead of serving as the Distinguished Alumni Speaker for the Virginia Tech College of Engineering’s spring 2024 commencement ceremonies, here are five quick facts about Associate Dean of Equity and Engagement Bevlee A. Watford '81, M.S. '83, Ph.D. '85:
- She is a triple Hokie, with a bachelor’s degree in mining engineering, and both a master’s degree and a Ph.D. in industrial engineering and operations research.
- After securing a $2 million grant from the National Science Foundation to expand CEED, Watford was promoted to full professor in 2004 — becoming the first Black woman to hold this position in the College of Engineering.
- In 2017, she made history as the first African American female president of the American Society for Engineering Education.
- Several honors in the college are named after Watford, including the engineering education graduate student award and three scholarships — one provided by the Student Engineers' Council and the others funded by Virginia Tech alumni.
- She shares her life with her husband, Van Johnson '82, and their two children, who are also Virginia Tech alumni.
Watford, a trailblazer in her field, has received numerous accolades, including the Black Engineer of the Year-Educational Leadership award and being appointed by President Joe Biden to serve on the National Science Board. Her journey began with the influence of her best friend’s father, who worked in construction and guided young Watford toward civil engineering. However, a friend at Virginia Tech persuaded her to attend a mining engineering information session, where she was captivated by the advanced equipment.
Like many engineering students, Watford faced academic challenges. She failed Fluid Mechanics in her third year, an experience that taught her the importance of seeking help and being receptive to advice.
“The discipline required to earn an engineering degree, the difficulty I had in learning how to be a better student — it all clicked when I started working at Virginia Tech in the '90s,” said Watford. “All I had to do was create an experience that addressed all of the challenges I had as a student, like fitting in socially, finding my academic aptitude, managing my time — all that and more.”
In her commencement address, Watford will share her insights on navigating life’s transitions. Watford will be honored as the college’s Distinguished Alumni Award recipient at this year’s ceremonies on May 11. The award celebrates graduates who have distinguished themselves in their careers, applied their engineering education toward global and community engagement, and significantly impacted the university through service, philanthropy, or meaningful interaction with students and faculty.
“Bev’s influence has been transformative for the college across decades. She has made a lasting impression on countless students throughout her tenure. As a Virginia Tech engineer herself, she will share not only her wisdom but a distinct viewpoint with our graduates,” said Julie Ross, the Paul and Dorothea Torgersen Dean of Engineering.
Since returning to her alma mater in 1992, Watford has held various roles where she has been able to provide opportunities for students. From teaching to interim department head, director of the Ware Lab to associate dean of academic affairs, she’s answered the call each time the college has asked for her assistance. However, she’s best known for being the founding executive director of CEED and the associate dean of equity and engagement.
Notable recognitions also include the following:
- The first Black woman inducted into the Virginia Tech Academy of Engineering Excellence
- Named an American Society for Engineering Education fellow as well as a member of the Hall of Fame
- A recipient of the National Society of Black Engineers-ExxonMobil Impact Award
In July 2024, Watford will officially retire from Virginia Tech.
Academically and professionally, Watford was inspired and mentored by Paul Torgersen, former president of Virginia Tech and dean of the College of Engineering from 1970-90, and Barbara Pendergrass, dean of students from 1998-2003. Little did she know that she would become an inspiration to future generations.
What CEED alumni and staff have to say about Watford’s impact:
- "I met Dr. Watford when I was around 16 or 17 years old — almost 30 years ago. What stood out right away was the thought that I wanted to be like her," said Sharnnia Artis '02. “I really saw myself in her. I saw hard work.”
- "Dr. Watford's influence stems within the depth of CEED itself. She created everything that CEED is. All of the support and everything that is happening is thanks to her," said Taylor Cupp '09, assistant to the director of CEED.
- “One of the things that Bev has taught me is that there's always a way. There's no obstacle too big if it's important; if it's something that should be done, she is going to find a way to get it done," said Kim Lester, CEED’s director of pre-college programs.
- "Dr. Watford makes an effort to ensure each person knows they matter and belong. That kind of genuine care is what changes the world,” said Collegiate Assistant Professor Ashley Taylor '14, M.S. '16, Ph.D. '19.
All four engineering ceremonies will feature remarks from Watford and Ross. The College of Engineering master’s commencement ceremony will be held May 11 at 8:30 a.m. in Cassell Coliseum. Engineering undergraduate commencement ceremonies, held at noon, 3:30 p.m., and 7 p.m. May 11 in Cassell Coliseum, will also feature an address from the college’s Outstanding Senior, biological systems engineering student Julia Riley.
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