Four students from the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering were recognized at FIU’s Outstanding Student Life Awards ceremony, with the department earning the greatest number of awards and finalist recognitions among all departments across the university.

Selected from hundreds of nominations and dozens of finalists, these students were honored for their exceptional leadership, service, and contributions to the FIU community. Their recognition reflects the talent, dedication, and excellence of CEE students.

Emilio Castellanos received the Presidential Award, the highest honor presented at the ceremony by FIU President Jeanette Nuñez. His achievement is especially remarkable as he is still an undergraduate student.

Cary Wingard, now a master’s student, received the Service Award and was also recognized as a finalist in several additional categories.

Michael Odelola, a Ph.D. candidate, earned the Leadership Award and was likewise named a finalist in multiple categories.

Fabiola Cagigas, a junior in the department, received the Leadership Award in the junior category.

Together, these recognitions made CEE the most celebrated department of the evening, standing out for both the number of awards received and the strong presence of its students among the finalists.

The department proudly congratulates Emilio, Cary, Michael, and Fabiola on this outstanding achievement and thanks them for representing CEE and FIU with excellence.