The Alumni Association is proud to celebrate this exceptional class of Jackets whose bold achievements are shaping the world, from Brandi Brown, Bio 13, who is harnessing mushroom biotechnology to address global challenges, to Anish Bhatt, IE 10, the named inventor of Apple Pay Cash, to Sona Shah, ChBE 11, who leads a company delivering lifesaving medical devices to newborns in low-resource communities, to Michael Moreland, IA 07, who leads Africa’s largest healthcare distribution network. These alumni are doing the impossible and building brilliant legacies.
Olivia Maria Amyette, CS 20
Olivia Maria Amyette, CS 20
Founder/CEO | Infinite Energy Advisors, Solar Knowledge Institute
Olivia Amyette is revolutionizing renewable energy. As founder and CEO of Infinite Energy Advisors and the Solar Knowledge Institute, she delivers solar installations across the Southeast and trains the next generation through Georgia’s premier Department of Labor–registered apprenticeship solar program. After launching her company at 20, she quickly grew it past $1 million in annual revenue, earning the “Best of Georgia 2025” award, and a spot in the Women Presidents’ Organization. Amyette also serves on multiple sustainability boards and was featured in a 2025 clean energy documentary. When she’s not advancing solar equity, she enjoys game development and time with family.
Favorite Tech Memory: Within the Grand Challenges classroom being a facilitator for over 20 student research projects each semester.
Allison Bernard, CE 09
Allison Bernard, CE 09
Project Development Director | NextEra Energy Resources
Allison Bernard is a seasoned project management leader with 16 years of experience driving mission-critical projects, leading cross-functional teams, and spearheading culture transformation in S&P 500 companies. Her leadership has been instrumental in streamlining operations and fostering innovation in the energy industry. She currently works as a project development director at NextEra Energy Resources, the world’s largest renewable energy company in solar, wind, and battery. Through her expertise in project development and strategic execution, Bernard contributes to a sustainable and resilient energy future. Favorite Tech Memory: Creating lasting friendships, expanding cultural appreciation abroad, and building a global network rooted in the shared Georgia Tech journey.
Parminder Bhatia, MS CSE 15
Parminder Bhatia, MS CSE 15
Chief AI Officer | GE HealthCare
Parminder Bhatia leads AI integration across smart devices, the patient journey, and hospital operations at GE HealthCare. Under his leadership, the organization has achieved the highest number of FDA-authorized AI-enabled medical devices for three consecutive years, with over 85 approvals. He also serves on the company’s Responsible AI Committee. Previously, at Amazon, he contributed to the development of machine learning and generative AI products. His recognitions include Modern Healthcare’s 40 Under 40, IIT Ropar’s Emerging Alumni Award, AIM AI 100, AI Magazine’s Top 10 CAIOs, Constellation Research’s AI 150, and AIM’s Rising Star in AI Award.
Favorite Tech Memory: Late-night coding marathons, inspiring professors, campus walks, research breakthroughs, and friendships that turned into lifelong collaborations and global impact.
Anish Bhatt, IE 10
Anish Bhatt, IE 10
VP Product | Jeeves
Anish Bhatt is a product innovator transforming global finance and commerce. As a product leader at Jeeves, he helped secure the company’s Series C funding and scaled its cross-border platform to over $100 million in gross monthly volume, empowering thousands of businesses with access to capital and modern expense management tools across North America, Central America, South America, the U.K., and Europe. He is the named inventor of Apple Pay Cash, now used by millions. Previously, Bhatt held executive product leadership roles at Assist and Conversocial where he drove strategic growth and helped lead both SaaS companies to successful acquisitions. He lives in California with his wife, Preet, their son, Jivan, and dog, Lincoln.
Favorite Tech Memory: Without a doubt, being in the student section during the Calvin Johnson era. Go Jackets!
Kyle Blond, AE 12
Kyle Blond, AE 12
Senior Research Engineer and Branch Head | Georgia Tech Research Institute Logistics Company Commander | U.S. Marine Corps Reserve
Kyle Blond is a senior research engineer at Georgia Tech Research Institute. In this role, he is an engineering research manager specializing in systems engineering, digital product support, and operations management/research. Blond is also a United States Marine Corps reserve officer assigned to Combat Logistics Regiment 45 and the Marine Innovation Unit. He holds a Doctorate of Systems Engineering from Colorado State University, a Master of Science in systems engineering from Naval Postgraduate School, and a Bachelor of Science in aerospace engineering from Georgia Tech, and lives in Atlanta with his spouse, three children, and dog.
Favorite Tech Memory: Attending my graduation and commissioning ceremony on the same weekend. It was exhausting and amazing to celebrate with family and friends!
Brandi Brown, Bio 13
Brandi Brown, Bio 13
Founder/CEO | Gulf Spore
Brandi Brown is making waves in the mushroom industry. Upon graduating from Georgia Tech, she commissioned as an officer in the United States Air Force. After serving her country, she earned a PhD in bioengineering, which focused on developing bioplastics from microbes. Recognizing the beauty and potential of fungi, she founded Gulf Spore, a mushroom biotech company dedicated to solving many of humanity’s greatest challenges, such as food waste. Gulf Spore was awarded a Small Business Innovation Research grant by the National Science Foundation.
Favorite Tech Memory: One of my favorite memories was getting to perform Honor Guard at the GT football game as a rifle bearer!
Usayd Casewit, MS PP 17
Usayd Casewit, MS PP 17
Team Facilities Officer | FIFA
While earning his master’s in public policy at Georgia Tech, Usayd Casewit worked with President Emeritus G. Wayne Clough to help launch the Global Change Program. After graduation, he joined the World Bank, advancing strategic investment operations, analytical and advisory services in decarbonization, carbon pricing, renewable energy, and hydropower. In 2022, he took a role at the U.S. National Academy of Sciences to lead international sustainability collaborations, mobilizing experts and networks across the United States and globally to address critical sustainability issues. In 2023, he transitioned into sport, joining the International Paralympic Committee to lead the coordination of global Para sport development programs, including a role at the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games, empowering individuals with disabilities through sport and promoting social inclusion while challenging societal perceptions. He now works with FIFA on the Club World Cup 2025. Casewit currently lives in Germany and is proficient in English, Arabic, French, Spanish, and is learning German. Favorite Tech Memory: Launching the Global Change Program with President Clough and witnessing Atlanta United’s electric matches at Bobby Dodd—unforgettable energy and purpose.
Kevin Cone, ME 10
Kevin Cone, ME 10
Assistant Athletic Director, Student-Athlete Development | Georgia Tech
Kevin Cone serves as assistant athletic director for Student-Athlete Development at Georgia Tech, where he leads the Total Person Program and oversees the Georgia Tech Letterwinners Club. A former Yellow Jacket and NFL/CFL wide receiver, Cone is dedicated to developing student-athletes as leaders on and off the field. He also serves as co-athletic chair of the Black Alumni Organization and liaison for the Student-Athlete Advisory Board. Cone holds a Bachelor of Science in mechanical engineering from Georgia Tech, an MBA from Georgia State University, and is currently pursuing a doctorate of business administration to explore how innovation, leadership, and purpose can redefine the future of business.
Favorite Tech Memory: Seeing my Dad’s name (Ronny Cone) the first time I walked into the football team locker room.
Shannon Evanchec, EnvE 16
Shannon Evanchec, EnvE 16
CEO | TruePani
Shannon Evanchec is an environmental engineer and entrepreneur dedicated to improving drinking water quality. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Environmental Engineering from Georgia Tech in 2016 and an MBA from the University of Tennessee in 2021. As co-founder and CEO of TruePani Inc., Evanchec leads initiatives to eliminate lead from drinking water in schools and communities nationwide. Her work has impacted communities across 22 states and has garnered recognition, including the InVenture Prize People’s Choice Award and inclusion in Knoxville’s “40 Under 40” list.
Favorite Tech Memory: Watching Georgia Tech football win the Orange Bowl in Miami on New Year’s Eve.
Ronnie Foreman, AE 14
Ronnie Foreman, AE 14
Senior Manager, Commercial Sales | Space Exploration Technologies (SpaceX)
Ronnie Foreman is a senior manager for Commercial Sales at SpaceX, where she has worked on the company’s innovative small satellite Rideshare Program for the past five years. Foreman is a regular launch webcast host, providing live coverage of satellite and astronaut missions. She began her career at NASA Goddard, researching satellite constellations as part of her graduate thesis. After earning two master’s degrees from MIT, she joined Virgin Orbit as a payload integration engineer, supporting the development of the first air-launched liquid-fueled rocket. As a parabolic flight coach for ZeroG, Foreman has accumulated more than 80 minutes in microgravity.
Favorite Tech Memory: Road tripping down to see the final launch of Space Shuttle Endeavor with friends and my now-husband, David!
Victoria Fritz, Bio 17
Victoria Fritz, Bio 17
Founder/CEO | BabyBumps
Dr. Victoria Fritz is a physician turned entrepreneur. After graduating from Georgia Tech, Fritz went to medical school at the University of North Carolina–Chapel Hill and matched into cardiothoracic surgery (heart and lung surgery) for residency. After a major medical diagnosis forced her to leave her career in heart surgery, she launched BabyBumps, a company focused on the fertility space with a mission to elevate the value of women in surrogacy.
Favorite Tech Memory: I met my husband when we were students at Tech! He is now my most important business partner.
Caroline Gwynn Monagle, STC 14
Caroline Gwynn Monagle, STC 14
Vice President, Strategic Initiatives | R1 RCM
Caroline Monagle is a healthcare executive with extensive experience leading strategy, corporate development, and enterprise transformation. She is currently the vice president of Strategic Initiatives at R1 RCM, where she helps lead the company’s AI Lab, which is focused on transforming healthcare by building AI-powered automation. Before this, she spent five years at McKinsey & Company in the Healthcare practice leading provider performance improvement initiatives. She is passionate about using technology to make healthcare more efficient, equitable, and human-centered. Monagle currently lives in Atlanta with her husband, toddler, and dog.
Favorite Tech Memory: Late-night study sessions with my roommates (and best friends), surrounded by piles of snacks and taking dance breaks.
Mitchell Hanson, Neur 20
Mitchell Hanson, Neur 20
MD/MPH Student | Medical College of Georgia
Mitchell Hanson is a Doctor of Medicine and Master of Public Health candidate at the Medical College of Georgia with interests in public health, dermatology, and fitness. He has presented at national and international conferences, published in high-impact journals including the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology and the Alzheimer’s Association, and appeared on TEDx and AMA national platforms. He has managed nearly $50,000 in grant funding for community health initiatives and completed his MPH internship in Vietnam researching vascular anomalies and laser technologies. As the current president of his institution’s Gold Humanism Honor Society chapter, Hanson aims to reshape medicine through medical media, artistic expression, and a reimagined identity of physicianship. He was inducted into the AMA Leadership Development Institute 2025–2026 Health Administration and Management Cohort.
Favorite Tech Memory: The Biomolecular Engineering, Science, and Technology (BEST) Study Abroad Program in Lyon. I made lifelong friends there, including one whose wedding I just officiated for!
Joe Harms, MS MP 15, PhD NE 18
Joe Harms, MS MP 15, PhD NE 18
Assistant Professor / Medical Physicist | Washington University in St. Louis
Joe Harms is a board-certified medical physicist and assistant professor of Radiation Oncology at Washington University. He received his master’s and doctorate in medical physics from Georgia Tech, followed by a residency at Emory University. Harms’ research focuses on technological innovation to improve therapeutic outcomes for patients receiving radiation. His clinical expertise includes adaptive and proton therapies, techniques which focus on reducing the side effects typical of radiation. Outside of work, Harms spends his time raising two wonderful children with his wife, Kelsey. A former collegiate basketball player, he also likes to stay active by hiking, running, and cycling.
Favorite Tech Memory: Sitting in on Bill Leahy’s CS2110 lectures. His teaching style was one of a kind, and he made learning about computing architectures truly entertaining.
Samuel Harris, CE 12, MS CE 14
Samuel Harris, CE 12, MS CE 14
Assistant State Traffic Engineer | Georgia Department of Transportation
Sam Harris is the assistant state traffic engineer for the Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT) and a licensed professional engineer in Georgia. He has worked in signal operations, traffic simulation modeling, and safety analysis, and previously served as state safety engineering manager, leading GDOT’s HSIP efforts. In his current role, he oversees the Operational Improvement Program, Permitting, Safety Program, RAID Program, TMC project delivery, and safety data management. He also co-leads GDOT’s Data Purchase Program. Harris is the 2024 ITE Young Member of the Year, immediate past president of Georgia ITE, and secretary of the ITE Safety Council.
Favorite Tech Memory: Bringing my daughters to campus and sharing Georgia Tech traditions passed down from my grandfather, class of 1957.
Adam Hasham, MS CS 24
Adam Hasham, MS CS 24
Lead AI/ML Engineer | Vizient
Adam Hasham harnesses cutting-edge AI to transform healthcare as a lead artificial intelligence/machine learning engineer at Vizient. He architects and deploys advanced AI models impacting healthcare systems and supply chains on a national scale. Drawing on experience at AI startups including TripleBlind (privacy-preserving AI) and Imubit (AI industrial optimization), Hasham brings practical, cutting-edge experience to complex challenges. He enjoys blending technical excellence with strategic vision to drive meaningful, scalable change in critical sectors. Hasham is also a United Way Emerging Leader dedicated to making a difference in his community.
Favorite Tech Memory: Rocko’s infamous Graduate Algorithms TA sessions and his “special” beverage.
Robert Herbert, PhD ME 22
Robert Herbert, PhD ME 22
Assistant Professor | Louisiana State University
Robert Herbert is an assistant professor in the Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering at Louisiana State University. He received his Bachelor of Science and Master of Science in mechanical engineering from The Ohio State University and his PhD in mechanical engineering from Georgia Tech, followed by postdoctoral studies at Carnegie Mellon University. His group studies the design and manufacturing of soft electronics and robotics for a variety of applications, including implantables, wearables, extreme environments, and space missions. Among other topics, Herbert’s group leads the development of vascular electronic systems to improve the monitoring and treatment of vascular diseases.
Favorite Tech Memory: Getting lunch from the Bento Bus food truck almost every time it was on campus.
David Hern, Mgt 08, MBA 12
David Hern, Mgt 08, MBA 12
CEO | Sofer Advisors, LLC
David Hern is a serial entrepreneur and the CEO of Sofer Advisors, LLC and The Val Guy, LLC, which specialize in valuation and advisory services. Hern’s companies have been recipient of multiple awards, including Inc. 5000, the NACVA’s 40 Under 40, Atlanta Business Chronicle’s 40 under 40, and Georgia Titan 100. He enjoys helping business owners tell their unique story through the numbers. Outside of work, Hern is deeply involved in community work, notably as a foster parent and board member for the Georgia Tech men’s lacrosse team, the Atlanta Estate Planning Council, and Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta.
Favorite Tech Memory: Watching Calvin Johnson torch Clemson in Death Valley in 2004 with my girlfriend, who later became my wife.
Kaitlyn Johnson, IA 14
Kaitlyn Johnson, IA 14
Deputy Director, Strategic Initiatives Group | U.S. Space Force
Kaitlyn Johnson is the deputy director of the Chief of Space Operations’ Strategic Initiatives Group for the U.S. Space Force. In this role, she advises on Space Force strategic messaging, institutional policies, change management, organizational development, and space strategy. Before this, Johnson was a deputy director and fellow of the Aerospace Security Project at the Center for Strategic and International Studies. There, she specialized in topics such as space security, military space systems, and commercial and civil space policy. She is widely published on national security space reorganization, space threats, commercial space, escalation and deterrence dynamics, and cislunar activities.
Favorite Tech Memory: European Union study abroad with my best friend!
Ankit Kaushik, BME 14, MS ECE 22
Ankit Kaushik, BME 14, MS ECE 22
Senior Technical Product Manager | Smarsh
Ankit Kaushik, an AI operator and investor with 10+ years’ experience, leads AI-powered compliance solutions at Smarsh as senior product manager. Part-time, at Illuminate Ventures, he invests in AI enterprise SaaS and advises portfolio startups on product strategy. Formerly at Google, he integrated DeepMind AI into consumer products and built AI/VC partnerships. Kaushik is an OpenAI Forum member, pursuing a Wharton MBA, and a Georgia Tech dual-degree graduate in biomedical and computer engineering.
Favorite Tech Memory: Studying abroad in Denmark for one semester as an exchange student at the Technical University of Denmark.
Gokul Kumar, MS ECE 10, PhD ECE 15
Gokul Kumar, MS ECE 10, PhD ECE 15
Senior Director | Micron
Gokul Kumar is a global semiconductor leader with over 15 years of experience in creating memory products for mobile and cloud computing. As senior director at Micron, he leads a large and diverse team to advance next generational packaging technologies. Additionally, he is an adjunct professor and industry advisor, mentoring future semiconductor talent through education and international collaborations. A prolific inventor with nine patents and 24 publications, he holds a master’s and doctorate degree in electrical and computer engineering from Georgia Tech. Favorite Tech Memory: Delivering a TEDx talk at LeCraw Auditorium about my journey in technology through my passion for music as a classical violinist.
David Leber, ChBE 14, MS CS 21
David Leber, ChBE 14, MS CS 21
Vice President of Data Science | Preston Ventures
As a vice president of Data Science at Preston Ventures, David Leber spearheads the development of predictive modeling solutions. His team processes data on the senior population and leverages innovative machine learning approaches to derive insights about mortality and morbidity trends. His research aims to simplify how medical records can be used in predictive modeling, making it possible for intersectional data to be harnessed fully. While at Tech, Leber was president of Georgia Tech Mock Trial, served as a computer science TA, and was usually holding space for his now-wife, Ronnie, in Swarm every Saturday.
Favorite Tech Memory: Dancing the Budweiser Bob in the North Ave. Quad during Finals Week.
Jung Hyun Lee, MS BC 18, PhD BC 22
Jung Hyun Lee, MS BC 18, PhD BC 22
Assistant Professor | SUNY Farmingdale State College
Jung Hyun Lee is an incoming assistant professor at SUNY Farmingdale State College. Previously, she was an assistant professor of Construction Management at Roger Williams University. A proud Georgia Tech alumna, her work bridges academia and industry through research in construction contracts, emerging technologies, and workforce development. She coaches award-winning student competition teams, mentors undergraduate researchers, and leads K–12 outreach using virtual reality to promote construction careers. A certified Associate Design-Build Institute of America professional, Lee actively serves in national professional organizations and advises student clubs focused on interdisciplinary collaboration. She is dedicated to empowering the next generation of construction leaders through innovation, mentorship, and real-world engagement. Favorite Tech Memory: Feeding a stray cat named George and relaxing with him under the sun behind the Caddell Building was unforgettable.
Nick Austin Lee, MS CS 17
Nick Austin Lee, MS CS 17
Lead Product Manager for Unstructured Data | Disney Experiences
Nick Lee is the lead product manager for Unstructured Data at Disney Experiences, where he drives data strategy and integrations across Disney Parks, Experiences and Products. Previously, he worked at Databricks and Labelbox, helping Fortune 500 companies solve complex business problems with data and AI. He is an inventor on a Labelbox patent filing, has discussed AI on national news, and presented at the Data + AI Summit in San Francisco. Outside of work, Lee writes science fiction and is a member of the Science Fiction and Fantasy Writers Association. He earned his master’s in computer science from Georgia Tech.
Favorite Tech Memory: I loved Professor Thrun’s self-driving car class! Whenever a self-driving car passes by, I remember Georgia Tech.
PJ Lynn, BME 08
PJ Lynn, BME 08
Medical Director | Atrium Health
Dr. PJ Lynn is the medical director of Atrium Health Floyd Cherokee Medical Center in Centre, Alabama. A Georgia Tech and University of Florida graduate, he is a recognized physician leader and advocate for provider well-being, community service, and rural healthcare access. He serves as president of the Georgia Healthy Family Alliance, medical director of the Free Clinic of Rome, and regional Epic EMR leader for Atrium Health. A dedicated educator, he is on the faculty at Augusta University, Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine, and Nova Southeastern. Lynn treasures life with his wife, Lindsey, and their four children: Peter, Betsy, Bruce, and John Parker. Favorite Tech Memory: The Calvin Johnson one-handed catch against N.C. State on Nov. 6, 2004.
Meagan Clem Martz, IAML 08, MS IA 11
Meagan Clem Martz, IAML 08, MS IA 11
Senior Associate Director, Lead—International Leadership Giving | The Carter Center
Meagan (Clem) Martz leads the International Leadership Giving team at The Carter Center. Her Georgia Tech education included international affairs and scientific coursework and multiple study abroad experiences, which prepared her to establish and manage multimillion-dollar relationships to support the center’s global health and peace programs. Martz represents the center in meetings with heads of state, diplomats, royalty, and donors around the world to fund the work of her colleagues and carry on the Carters’ legacy of “Waging Peace, Fighting Disease, and Building Hope.”
Favorite Tech Memory: On freshmen move-in day, I met my lifelong best friend, Jill, next door on the third floor of Fitten dormitory.
Akanksha Menon, MS ME 15, PhD ME 18
Akanksha Menon, MS ME 15, PhD ME 18
Assistant Professor | Georgia Tech
Akanksha Menon is an assistant professor in the Woodruff School of Mechanical Engineering at Georgia Tech, where she directs the Water – Energy Research Lab. Her research interests lie at the intersection of thermal science/engineering and functional materials, with the overarching goal of developing sustainable technologies for clean water and clean energy. Menon is a recipient of the NSF CAREER Award, the ACS Doctoral Young Investigator Award, and three Department of Energy (DOE) grants on thermal energy storage. Menon was awarded the 2023 ASME Pi Tau Sigma Gold Medal, the 2025 ASTFE Early Career Researcher Award, and she was featured by DOE in their Women @ Energy initiative.
Favorite Tech Memory: Two core memories are publishing my first journal paper and pulling off a very successful Energy Expo event with speakers from around the country!
Michael Moreland, IA 07
Michael Moreland, IA 07
CEO | Field Intelligence, Inc.
Michael Moreland is the co-founder and CEO of Field Intelligence, Africa’s largest healthcare distribution network, improving access to care through technology, distribution, and financing. Moreland previously co-founded SEEDR, developing vaccine cold-chain solutions for global scale. He has formerly led innovation initiatives at the frontlines with the Centers for Disease Control, fighting polio, Ebola, and other infectious diseases in Africa and worked with McKinsey, UNICEF, MSF, and others on health system policy and strategy. He is committed to advancing access to care through innovation and also serves on the board of directors for Living Goods.
Favorite Tech Memory: Definitely not stealing any letter Ts from any signs on campus. And Ludacris 2005 was pretty great.
Shay Natarajan, ME 09, MS ME 12
Shay Natarajan, ME 09, MS ME 12
Partner | Mobility Impact Partners
Shweta “Shay” Natarajan is a partner at Mobility Impact Partners (MIP), a PE firm that invests across mobility, energy, financial services, and AI domains. Natarajan leads the collaboration with MIP’s large corporate coalition and is responsible for generating high-conviction investment theses leading to substantial investments. Prior to MIP, she was in senior positions at Caterpillar and McKinsey. Natarajan started her career at Apple, with prior short stints at Lutron Electronics, 3M, and Honeywell. She is a member of the advisory board at the Woodruff School of Mechanical Engineering at Georgia Tech. She also received the 2024 Council of Outstanding Young Engineering Alumni Award from Georgia Tech. Favorite Tech Memory: My graduate experience at Georgia Tech! I had a great advisor, made a lot of friends, loved my graduate research and met my husband! I really had a great time.
Krystal Persaud, ID 10
Krystal Persaud, ID 10
Design Innovation Lead | Spin Master Inc. Inventor | Grouphug Solar
Krystal Persaud is an award-winning inventor and design entrepreneur. At 24, she became a founding member of littleBits, an educational toy company that raised $77 million and partnered with Disney to create the Toy of the Year–winning Droid Inventor Kit. After littleBits was acquired, she launched Grouphug Solar, invented the patented Window Solar Charger, and won a $150K investment from Mark Cuban on Shark Tank. Now design innovation lead at global toy giant Spin Master—known for Paw Patrol, Kinetic Sand, Rubik’s Cube, and Etch A Sketch—she invents toys enjoyed by millions worldwide. Her work has been featured on the Today Show, Dwell, Buzzfeed, and The Wall Street Journal. Favorite Tech Memory: Late nights in the design studio fueled by coffee and creativity.
Eric Pierce, PhD BME 18
Eric Pierce, PhD BME 18
Director, Engineering | Edwards Lifesciences
Eric Pierce is an R&D director at Edwards Lifesciences, where he leads product testing for next-generation heart valve technologies. His work has spanned transcatheter and surgical platforms, and he has helped commercialize numerous best-in-class products, estimated to have reached over 100,000 patients. A former Peace Corps volunteer teacher and a committed mentor, Pierce brings a systems-level mindset to both engineering and leadership. He has authored over 30 publications, holds multiple patents, and serves enthusiastically on the ISO committee shaping international standards for heart valve devices. He lives in Southern California with his wife and two young daughters. Favorite Tech Memory: My PhD recruiting dinner, when I serendipitously overheard that GT has a heart valve lab. That moment changed my life!
Tanay Rajore, IE 14
Tanay Rajore, IE 14
Director | PwC
Tanay Rajore is a director in PwC Consulting’s Tech Strategy practice, where he leads PwC’s digital product management and launch specialty, advising global clients on bringing new platforms and products to market. A Georgia Tech alum from a family of doctors in India, he was the first in his family to pursue engineering, and later, the first to hold a leadership role in corporate America. He serves as PwC’s Georgia Tech Recruiting Champion and works to strengthen the firm’s strategic partnership with the Institute. Passionate about mentorship, equity, and empowering first-generation college students, Rajore blends technical expertise with people-first leadership to drive impact at scale.
Favorite Tech Memory: My experiences across Georgia Tech’s Study Abroad, Work Abroad, and Co-Op programs, where I grew through global exposure, work, and exploration.
Liz Raman-Grubbs, BA 17
Liz Raman-Grubbs, BA 17
Founder | Supply Chain Gals
Liz Raman-Grubbs is a Forbes’ 30 Under 30 leader, transforming global retail and supply chains. She leads Amazon’s 3P musical instruments strategy, previously drove $1B growth at Nike, and led digital transformation at The Home Depot. At MIT, she earned a full-tuition AWESOME scholarship, built Uber Freight’s sustainability strategy, and won Patagonia’s case competition. Raman-Grubbs founded Supply Chain Gals, a nonprofit community of 20K+ women, and mentors 170K+ early career professionals via @ItsLizRaman. A proud Georgia Tech alumna, she’s redefining leadership with purpose, innovation, and impact, empowering the next generation of women in business. Favorite Tech Memory: When Nicholas Selby shared at my Freshman Convocation, “If you want to change the world, you’re at Georgia Tech. You can do that.”
Anthony Rojas, Chem 14
Anthony Rojas, Chem 14
Senior Academic Professional | Georgia Tech
Anthony J. Rojas is a senior academic professional in chemistry at Georgia Tech. He earned his PhD from MIT and his bachelor’s from Georgia Tech, both in chemistry. His research spans peptide therapeutics, transition metal catalysis, and inclusive chemistry education, with over a dozen peer-reviewed publications. A passionate educator, he’s received multiple teaching awards and led funded projects from NIH, NSF, and ACS. Rojas is committed to mentorship and outreach. He integrates lightboard technology and active learning to enhance student engagement and success in the chemistry classroom.
Favorite Tech Memory: Meeting my people, including my future wife!
Nicole Seekely, Arch 07
Nicole Seekely, Arch 07
Senior Project Architect | Perkins&Will
Nicole Seekely, AIA, is a senior project architect and senior associate at Perkins&Will in Atlanta. She leads transformative urban infill projects across the Southeast, integrating design excellence with preservation, sustainability, and community advocacy. A co-founder of AIA Georgia’s Equity in Architecture initiative, Seekely is a champion for inclusion within the profession. Her leadership in practice, advocacy, and civic engagement earned her AIA National’s prestigious Young Architect Award. Her work reflects a core belief: that purposeful, community-rooted design can create more inclusive, resilient cities—and that architecture should serve the people and places it touches. Favorite Tech Memory: Studying abroad with the Georgia Tech Paris program.
Sona Shah, ChBE 11
Sona Shah, ChBE 11
CEO | Neopenda
Sona Shah is a healthtech visionary and co-founder of Neopenda, delivering innovative medical devices for newborns in low-resource settings. With a Georgia Tech bachelor’s in chemical engineering and a master’s in biomedical engineering from Columbia University, she began her career in pharma before founding Neopenda. She has raised over $6 million from VCs and grants, including Fortune 500 companies Vodafone and Cisco. Shah is a UN Women speaker, White House invitee, and a fellow of Techstars, Global Good Fund, and Miller Center. She is passionate about equitable healthcare and scaling impact in emerging markets.
Favorite Tech Memory: Studying abroad at Georgia Tech Lorraine—traveling to 12 countries, taking rigorous chemical engineering courses, and practicing French—was unforgettable.
J. Danielle Sharpe, HTS 14
J. Danielle Sharpe, HTS 14
Epidemiologist | Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
J. Danielle Sharpe is an epidemiologist at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), responding to domestic and international epidemics and driving high-impact research on health equity and social determinants of health. As a CDC Epidemic Intelligence officer, Sharpe strengthened global HIV programs across sub-Saharan Africa through the U.S. President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief. During the Covid-19 pandemic, Sharpe directed the CDC’s Social Vulnerability Index program, spearheading national response efforts to equitably deploy health resources to underserved communities. Sharpe holds a doctorate degree in Epidemiology from Emory University and a bachelor’s in history, technology, and society from Georgia Tech.
Favorite Tech Memory: Immersing myself in Georgia Tech’s sports scene, from reporting on sports for the Technique to working for the Athletic Association.
Alexandra Slack, MS PP 22
Alexandra Slack, MS PP 22
President & COO | National Education Equity Lab
Alexandra Slack is the president and chief operating officer of the National Education Equity Lab, a nonprofit that is democratizing access to higher education by bringing college courses from top institutions to scholars at lower-income high schools nationwide. In just five years, the Ed Equity Lab has reached over 40,000 scholars from 32 states and will serve one million scholars in the next decade. A former DeKalb County teacher and strategy consultant, she helped launch the Ed Equity Lab and now leads its daily operations and strategic growth.
Favorite Tech Memory: Late nights collaborating with my classmates on econ problem sets—it was during the pandemic, so “fun” had a different meaning.
Christopher R. Valenta, MS ECE 10, PhD ECE 14
Christopher R. Valenta, MS ECE 10, PhD ECE 14
Principal Research Engineer | Georgia Tech
Christopher R. Valenta is a principal research engineer and adjunct professor at Georgia Tech. He serves as the associate division head of the Electro-Optical and Infrared Systems Division at the Georgia Tech Research Institute, where his research spans the intersection of electromagnetics, optics, and signal processing. Valenta is a senior member of the IEEE and SPIE, member of Optica and DEPS, a 2020 SPIE Rising Researcher, and winner of the 2014 IEEE Microwave Magazine Best Paper Award.
Favorite Tech Memory: Late-night research parties on the fifth floor of Van Leer.
Adam C. Weiss, AE 10, IA 10
Adam C. Weiss, AE 10, IA 10
Counsel, House Subcommittee on Aviation | U.S. House of Representatives
Adam Weiss is counsel for the Subcommittee on Aviation in the U.S. House of Representatives, where he advises Congress; conducts oversight of the FAA, NTSB, and aviation industry; and was part of the team that drafted the 2024 FAA Reauthorization. He is also a lieutenant, junior grade in the U.S. Navy Reserve. Before Capitol Hill, Weiss was an engineer at Boeing: Phantom Works, where he worked on prototype spacecraft such as the Starliner. Weiss has a bachelor’s in aerospace engineering and a bachelor’s in international affairs from Georgia Tech; a J.D. from The George Washington University, and is pursuing a master’s in defense strategic studies from the U.S. Naval War College.
Favorite Tech Memory: Touring with the Glee Club through the U.K., before flying to Brussels for my study abroad in the EU.
Must be a Georgia Tech alumnus/a. An alumnus/a is defined as an individual who has an undergraduate or graduate degree(s) from Georgia Tech or has completed at least one semester at Georgia Tech and left in good standing.
A nominee is eligible as long as their birthday is after June 30, 1986. They cannot turn 40 before June 29, 2026.
Must have made an impact in his/her profession, business, research, the arts, leadership, community, education, and/or philanthropy. Examples may include:
Industry award or significant company achievement
Notable career growth (senior position, position of significant influence, fast riser, etc.)
Elected office
Board service
Notable innovations, inventions, or published works
Successes in entrepreneurship, business, nonprofit, research, the arts, or technology
National or international media coverage
Notable civic involvement, leadership, or recognition
Global impact and/or renown
Thought leader or “voice” in field/industry.
You do not. Anyone can nominate an alum for the program.
No, you do not need to contact the individual(s) you nominate, unless you prefer to do so. Once an alum is nominated, we will contact the nominee with detailed instructions and an invitation to apply for the award. All nominees must complete the full application for consideration.
No, due to the number of nominations and to maintain an ethical selection process, only nominations submitted through the online form will be considered.
Yes, you may submit as many nominations as you wish.
Self-nominations are not accepted.
No, a candidate is only considered once regardless of the number of nominations he or she receives.
You will receive an email about your nomination and the additional information you will need to submit. By submitting that information, you are accepting your nomination.
May 4, 2026 – Deadline for 40 under 40 nominations May 18, 2026– Deadline for nominees to accept their application July 15, 2026 – 40 under 40 class of 2024 announced TBD –40 Under 40 Ceremony & On Campus Activities