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If These Walls Could Talk: Extraordinary Tales from Georgia Tech

GT President's House

The Oasis Inside an Oasis

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The Song That Drives Tech Football

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D.M. Smith during renovations

The Writing On The Walls

Renovations to the D.M. Smith Building uncovered 100-year-old signatures of Tech students. Who were they?

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Home Sweet Home

Sometimes, a house is more than just a roof overhead. Here are stories of places Yellow Jackets have called home for four—or more—years

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A color photo shows the side of a vintage gold and white convertible car in a grassy park setting. In the background, a small crowd watches a uniformed soldier holding a rifle and standing next to two flagpoles flying the Georgia and U.S. flags.

A Lasting Legacy

The Georgia Tech Alumni Association recently hosted a rededication of the Tyler Brown Pi Mile, a treasured running path on campus. The path was originally conceptualized by Student Government Association President Lt. Tyler Hall Brown, Mgt 01, HTS 01, before he was killed on active duty in 2004. Upgrades to the path, including new granite markers and signs, honor Brown's mission to create a safe running route and ensure his legacy continues to evolve for the Georgia Tech community.

A single human hand is held palm up against a dark background, dimly lit from above. In the center of the palm rests a small, dark bone fragment, possibly a lower jawbone, with two small visible teeth and one projecting incisor.

Tech's Fossil Hunters

Georgia Tech's Spatial Ecology and Paleontology Lab invites the community to become "citizen scientists" during its "Fossil Fridays" event. Participants of all ages help researchers sift through sediment from Wyoming's Natural Trap Cave, searching for fossils that could be 30,000 years old. The program makes science more accessible while providing crucial help for research into how species were affected by historical climate change.

A group of about 30 people, mostly high school students and a few adults, stand on the steps of a red brick building. The students are casually dressed, many wearing lanyards. Two older adults stand at the front center, and two older women stand on either side.

Sowing Big Dreams in a Small Town

Georgia Tech is committed to increasing access for students from rural Georgia, a cause championed by alumnus Francis Lott, Arch 58, Arch 59. After achieving business and philanthropic success in his hometown of Douglas, Georgia, Lott established the Francis and Diane Lott Promise Scholarship Endowment to support local students. Through personal mentorship, sponsored campus visits, and financial aid, Lott is building a strong pipeline from Coffee County to his alma mater, helping more students from small towns envision a future at Tech.

A smiling young woman with long, dark, wavy hair and glasses stands on a metal staircase landing, arms crossed. She wears a white collared shirt and jeans. In the background, posters and artwork hang vertically from the ceiling in a bright, modern interior space.

From 1952 to 2022: Art Exhibits Celebrate Past and Present Pioneers of Gender Equality

To mark the 70th anniversary of women at Georgia Tech, Digital Media master's student Michelle Ramirez created two art exhibits celebrating past and present pioneers of gender equality. Her projects use interactive storytelling and diverse art forms to explore the experiences of early female students like Elizabeth Herndon and Diane Michel and to highlight ongoing work toward gender equality. The exhibits feature contributions from students and faculty, sharing untold stories and emphasizing that the crucial work for equality is not yet finished.

A volleyball player with red hair and a white and navy uniform focuses on hitting a volleyball with both hands during a game. She wears long white arm sleeves. Teammates and spectators are visible in the background of the indoor court.

How to Use National Team Experience at the College Level

Georgia Tech volleyball star and 2021 AVCA East Coast Region Player of the Year, Julia Bergmann, shares insights from her experience playing on the Brazil national team. She explains that success at the highest level requires more than just on-court skill, emphasizing the importance of observing veteran players' off-court habits, leadership, and consistent routines. Bergmann advises aspiring student-athletes to be coachable, diligent about self-care, and open to learning from teammates of all backgrounds to elevate their game.

A dark-skinned man with a beard and a smiling woman with long braids are seated at a table covered in sewing materials and colorful fabric swatches. Two mannequins wearing swimsuits are in the background, suggesting a fashion or design setting.

Dress Like a Nerd

Georgia Tech alumni and husband-and-wife duo Vincent and Jasmine James have launched Fira X Wear, a fashion brand creating cosplay-inspired swimwear and apparel. Combining Vincent's engineering background with Jasmine's design expertise and social media influence, the company produces versatile, sustainable pieces that can be worn at conventions or as everyday fashion. With a core mission of promoting inclusivity and ethical manufacturing, Fira X Wear aims to make the world of cosplay more accessible, less wasteful, and welcoming to all.

Five men stand outdoors on a balcony in front of a modern brick building. An elderly man in a suit, medals, and a red tie sits in a wheelchair holding a plaque. Four men in suits stand around him, all posing for a photo.

In Honor of Veterans

Georgia Tech held a dedication ceremony on November 10 to unveil plans for the Veterans Walk of Honor, a new campus tribute to Yellow Jackets who have served in the military. The Walk of Honor, expected to be completed in spring 2023, will feature markers for each military branch and consolidate existing plaques in a dynamic space near the Veterans Resource Center. The event also honored distinguished veterans like retired Col. Ralph Puckett, Jr., Cls 47, a recent Medal of Honor recipient, and highlighted the Institute's enduring legacy of progress and service.

Graphic with the text "if these walls could talk"

If These Walls Could Talk: Extraordinary Tales from Georgia Tech

Tech is not just an institute of higher education. Rather, it’s a cultural landmark that’s served as a launchpad for more celebrated careers and relationships. Here are just a few of the many anecdotes, which continue to resonate across the Institute’s walls today.

D.M. Smith during renovations

The Writing On The Walls

Renovations to the D.M. Smith Building uncovered 100-year-old signatures of Tech students. Who were they?

Home sweet home graphic

Home Sweet Home

Sometimes, a house is more than just a roof overhead. Here are stories of places Yellow Jackets have called home for four—or more—years

GT President's House

The Oasis Inside an Oasis

While the President’s House on 10th Street is no longer lived in by Tech presidents and their families, its story and memories have not faded.

Aerial View of GT Campus

Campus Maps

A nostalgic look at Georgia Tech dorm life—from pranks and open-door camaraderie to iconic traditions—paired with a quick tour of campus growth and architecture, from early shacks to Brittain, Van Leer, Tech Green, and today’s modern, collaborative spaces.

tech talent

Tech Talent On and Off The Screen

Technology has transformed the entertainment industry over the years. With imagination, ingenuity, and Tech-earned perseverance, these alumni shine on and off the screen.

recreation

Entertainment Through the Decades

Whether at the YMCA building, Junior’s Grill, or a Greek life dance, students knew how to take advantage of what little free time they had.

Eva Erickson

Tech Alumna Takes on Survivor

“I can’t fully explain my time on the island without giving away too much information, but I can say that I had a very powerful experience out there,” says Eva Erickson, Phys 22, who is a contestant on Season 48 of Survivor.

to hell with Georgia

Clean Old-Fashioned Hate

The great intrastate football rivalry between Georgia Tech and "that other school" is also the seed that sprouted several favorite fan traditions.

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Georgia Tech Super Fans

With a reputation for excellence, a history rich in quirky traditions, and an unparalleled sense of community, it’s easy to see why Georgia Tech is swarming with fans. For the truly devoted, their fandom knows no bounds. Meet these unmatched supporters who showcase school spirit in the most unexpected and creative ways.

Harry Middlebrooks on tour with Elvis

The Music Man

Musician may not rank anywhere near the top job titles of Tech alumni, but Harry Middlebrooks has made his voice and songs heard over a seven-decade career in the music industry.

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The T-Files

One hundred and thirty-nine years is a lot of history, and during that time Georgia Tech has produced a fair number of fascinating mysteries, legends, and curiosities. Here we dive into the past and learn the stories behind everything from campus dogs and the Institute’s best pranks, to fake students and UFO sightings.

Greek muse

A Work Divided

Renowned sculptor Julian Hoke Harris left an indelible mark at his alma mater through 34 years of teaching in the School of Architecture and a vast collection of artworks that still adorn campus. Students today recognize the stunning stained-glass window in Brittain Dining Hall, as well as the 10 limestone busts of great engineers and scientists on the building's columns. But around the Arch building, Harris is known almost as well for a work that's gone missing or at least half of it has.

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Recovered Fumble

Former Tech sportswriter picks up a historic football he didn’t know was lost.

picture of ANAK members

Peeking Into Georgia Tech's Secret Society

ANAK's rituals are governed by silence and its activities, particularly over the last seven decades, do not arrive with public signatures. But ANAK wasn't always a secret shrouded in mystery.

Interior of a dusty, blue-gray room with an open window looking out at a red and white urban building.

Hidden Gems of Georgia Tech

The Institute is brimming with treasures, some appreciated only by those in the know and others hiding in plain sight waiting to be discovered. Several are relics of Georgia Tech’s rich history, while others reflect the modern student body and personal experiences. Each spot, however, serves as a reminder that there is always more to discover at Georgia Tech.

Black and white photo of two people holding a "Georgia Tech Club" flag on a rocky mountain summit.

Big Ideas On Living

This collection of stories highlights Georgia Tech alumni who have turned ambitious ideas into reality, from traveling the world as digital nomads to challenging algorithmic bias in big tech. The article also explores major institutional innovations like the groundbreaking Online Master of Science in Computer Science (OMSCS) program, which has revolutionized access to higher education. Further showcasing the breadth of Tech's impact, the piece delves into cutting-edge research in nanosized spaces that promises significant advancements.

Skydiver jumping from an airplane over a mountain valley with lakes and a town below.

Sky-High Success

Ian Bobo, IE 94, has built an extraordinary skydiving career with over 27,000 jumps and induction into the International Skydiving Hall of Fame. He achieved the rare feat of winning world championships in two disciplines: canopy piloting in 2005 and four-way formation skydiving in 2006. Beyond competition, Bobo co-founded Flight-1, the first canopy-flight education company, invented the removable deployment system to reduce drag, and now trains elite military parachute units while developing new skydiving technologies.

Stylized illustration of a city skyline, featuring the Ponce City Market sign, tall buildings, and a pirate ship with a skull on the bow.

Larger-Than-Life Creations

Georgia Tech alumni have built some of the world's most impressive large-scale projects. This article showcases ten examples of their ingenuity, ranging from viral holiday decorations and iconic city skyscrapers to the world's largest man-made whitewater river. These creations in architecture, engineering, and design demonstrate the far-reaching impact of a Georgia Tech education.

Architectural rendering of a modern glass office tower and a high-line park at sunset.

Science Square: The Future is at Georgia Tech

Georgia Tech's newest innovation hub, Science Square, is an 18-acre multi-phase development designed to be a catalyst for life sciences and biotechnology. The district will feature over 1.8 million square feet of lab and office space, residential units, and retail, connected to campus by a $46 million pedestrian bridge. With purpose-built laboratory facilities and community engagement initiatives, Science Square aims to create a comprehensive ecosystem for scientific innovation and westside community development.

Aerial view of Bobby Dodd Stadium on the Georgia Tech campus surrounded by the Atlanta skyline at dusk.

How to Put On an International Sporting Event

Georgia Tech plays a crucial role whenever Atlanta hosts major sporting events like the Super Bowl, Olympics, or upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup. The Institute provides essential infrastructure, including training facilities and stadiums, while Tech students serve as valuable volunteers who gain real leadership experience. With its international diversity and deep community connections, Georgia Tech helps Atlanta successfully showcase the city to global audiences during these high-profile events.

Left: A woman with long brown hair, wearing a bright yellow suit and white top, sits in a well-lit room. Right: The same woman in a black leather jacket sits on the floor next to a bald man in a denim shirt, surrounded by paint cans, looking at color swatches.

Designing Her Dream Job

Georgia Tech alumna Kai Williamson, PP 06, MS PP 07, has built a successful career in interior design despite taking a non-traditional path. Her firm, Studio 7 Design Group, has worked with high-profile clients like Kevin Hart and has been featured in Architectural Digest and on HGTV's Luxe for Less. Williamson leverages her public policy background and initial interest in fashion to create dynamic, community-focused spaces, leaving a visual legacy for others to experience.

Man in a suit unveiling bronze plaques honoring military heroes on a brick wall.

Courage on Display: Explore the Veterans Walk of Honor Outside the Veterans Resource Center

Georgia Tech unveiled the Veterans Walk of Honor, continuing a deep history of supporting and honoring Yellow Jackets who have served their country. The display recognizes the sacrifices made by veterans and symbolizes Tech’s enduring commitment to active-duty service members, veterans, and their families. The ceremony featured speeches from Georgia Tech President Ángel Cabrera and other leaders, concluding with a performance by the University of North Georgia rifle team.

Ashley Hancock and Elizabeth Elkins

The Luck of the Irish

How two grads fell in love at the Aer Lingus Classic‚ and why fans are about to fall in love with football all over again.

Old picture of GT football

The Big Moment

“The South Stands at Armageddon”: Georgia Tech and the Racial Politics of the 1956 Sugar Bowl

Star athletes

Big Return

Star athletes return to Georgia Tech to take care of unfinished business

Paul Brown

BigHoops

The new “Topgolf for Basketball” game is a Georgia Tech grad’s slam-dunk idea.

Antartica Team

Explore Antarctica With Yellow Jackets

Eighteen adventurous Yellow Jackets traveled together to the far reaches of the world to explore Antarctica through the Georgia Tech Alumni Travel program.

A large group of people in hiking attire stands in a jungle setting, holding a black POW/MIA flag that reads "You Are Not Forgotten."

Searching for 81,500 Americans Missing In Action

Double Jacket Kelly McKeague, IE 81, MS IE 87, directs the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency, which is tasked with the sacred mission of finding Americans missing from past wars. The agency works to investigate, recover, and identify the remains of over 81,500 missing service members to bring closure to their families. Utilizing advanced technologies like isotope analysis and artificial intelligence, McKeague's team fulfills a national promise to never leave a fallen comrade behind.

Rick Clark photo with a photo of book next to it

AI is Coming for the College Essay

Rick Clark isn't worried. Tech's Executive Director for Strategic Student Access in Enrollment Management was one of the first to provide guidance on AI in the college admissions process. Find out Clark's other predictions for the future.

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100 Years: The Georgia Tech Alumni Magazine

First published in 1923, the Georgia Tech Alumni Magazine continues to tell the stories of Georgia Tech and its people, connecting alumni with one another and the Institute. Look back at the last 100 years through clippings from the magazine's archives.

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What Does the Future Have in Store for Me?

As a kid, you may have looked to a not-so-technical device to predict your future: the Magic 8 Ball. Here we have Georgia Tech’s own version of the classic kid’s toy: a panel of experts who will answer our questions about what the world will look like in the next 20 years and beyond.

A large skeleton prop with glowing blue eyes and a gold robe holds a cap and a book while a woman stands smiling at its feet.

The Georgia Tech Alumna Who Helped Create This Viral 12-Foot-Tall Halloween Skeleton

Georgia Tech alumna Rachel Little, BME 15, is the senior product engineer at The Home Depot behind "Skelly," the viral 12-foot-tall Halloween skeleton. Released in 2020, the giant decoration became a phenomenon as people embraced exterior decorating during the pandemic, with Little's team overcoming engineering challenges like wind resistance. Little, who once considered a medical career, now uses her engineering skills in a role she loves, continuing to develop new, large-scale holiday decorations.

Ring

Ring True

Wisconsin woman was compelled to return father’s class ring to his family.

Cartoon image of Buzz being built by a construction crew

How to Build a Yellow Jacket

Georgia Tech students and alumni aren’t like those from any other university. But how do they get that way? Is it something they’re born with? Or is it something the Institute draws out of them?

Locomotive Train

Little Locomotives

For Christmas in 1954, Santa brought to a young John Carter Jr., IE 69, a set of five Lionel train cars, a gift that launched a lifelong hobby of collecting model trains.

picture of waymo

Who’s Behind the Wheel?

Raghav Kohli navigates complex tech and legal issues in the autonomous vehicle landscape as Waymo’s senior director of automotive partnerships and assistant general counsel.

Ben McMillan and Jacquelyn Schneider with their restored Corvette

Little Yellow Corvette

Thirteen years later, this classic American sports car has been restored to its former glory.

Jennifer Telling and Shahin Mehrabanzad in front of a plane

Love is in the Air

When these two Yellow Jackets discovered the Yellow Jacket Flying Club, they instantly knew they'd found their home—and soon after their flying partner for life.

Bud Moeller ChBE 76

Pedal to the Metal

Race car driver Bud Moeller, ChBE 76, has competed in more than 250 races over the last three decades.

Vol. 99 No. 3 Rockets

We Have Liftoff

As kids and young adults, these three alumni always had their eyes on the sky. Whether they wondered what lived on the moon, were awed by the vastness of space, or were excited by a rocket’s plume, their curiosity and passion led them to careers where, at three different organizations, they are driving innovation in the aerospace industry.

Cole Getzler and his car

Reunited

The odds were against Cole Getzler ever finding his old four-wheeled friend from college.

GT President Cabrera on an e-bike

Q&A With the President: Georgia Tech's Key Role In the EV Revolution

Georgia Tech is playing a pivotal role in Georgia’s electric mobility boom, partnering with automakers like Hyundai and supporting startups like EnviroSpark. With research breakthroughs in battery technology, contributions from alumni shaping EV infrastructure and policy, and campus initiatives such as electrifying its bus fleet, the Institute is helping to drive innovation and sustainability in the EV industry. President Ángel Cabrera highlights Tech’s cross-disciplinary expertise and commitment to building a thriving ecosystem for electric mobility.

Concept art of Orion approaching a lunar orbital platform

Returning to the Moon [and Then Going to Mars]

NASA’s Artemis program, aiming to return humans to the Moon by 2024—including the historic milestone of landing the first woman—has key contributions from Georgia Tech alumni astronauts Eric Boe (MS EE 97), Shane Kimbrough (MS OR 98), and Doug Wheelock (MS AE 92). Artemis will rely on the Space Launch System rocket and the Orion spacecraft, which will dock with the lunar Gateway outpost before sending astronauts to the Moon’s surface with a new landing system. These missions are designed not only to advance lunar exploration but also to inspire the next generation of STEM leaders, with Georgia Tech graduates playing pivotal roles.

the apple (or android) doesn't fall far from the tree

Inside Bias in A.I.

Are we raising our technology to be biased? From Joy Buolamwini's research illuminating bias in facial recognition systems tp Nashlie Sephus' work at Amazon AWS on algorithmic fairness, Georgia Tech alumni are on the forefront of a big problem facing the tech industry.

A high-angle photo shows a woman clearing a high jump bar and about to land on a blue mat.

The Kind of Grit That Can't Be Stopped

Georgia Tech alumna and four-time Olympian Chaunte Lowe is determined to compete in her fifth Olympic games, training in her backyard during the Covid-19 pandemic. Her renewed determination comes after a 2018 breast cancer diagnosis, where her surgeon encouraged her to use her platform as an Olympian to raise awareness and save lives. Drawing on the resilience she learned as a student-athlete at Tech, Lowe is overcoming the challenges of being immunocompromised to prepare for the postponed Tokyo games, inspiring many with her unwavering drive.

A two-story, white house with a dark gray shingled roof, dark green shutters, and a well-kept front yard.

The Scholars of Dellwood Drive

The story follows a surprising connection between Randolph "Randy" Whitfield, ME 32, a prominent Georgia Tech alumnus, and Sarah Rutledge, a 2020 Stamps President's Scholar, through a shared address. Whitfield, a decorated engineer and lifelong Tech supporter, lived for 60 years in the home at 2540 Dellwood Drive, which was originally designed by a Tech architecture student. Decades later, Whitfield's grandson, Randy McDow, IE 95, discovered by chance that the newest resident of his grandparents' old home was a recipient of the very scholarship program he helps administer, bringing the Georgia Tech legacy full circle.

A high-angle, close-up shot of a wooden gavel resting on top of a dark blue legal book.

The Yellow Jacket-at-Law

Georgia Tech's revitalized Law, Science, and Technology (LST) program is uniquely positioned to mold future lawyers who can tackle complex issues at the intersection of law, technology, and policy. The program provides crucial pre-law advising, expanded course offerings, and internship opportunities, helping students on their path to law school. The article also profiles several successful alumni in the legal field—including a deputy general counsel at Tesla, a U.S. District Court Judge, a chief operating officer for the Governor of Georgia, and an assistant director at the Department of Justice—all of whom credit their Tech education for their success.

A black-and-white portrait of a bearded man, smiling in a suit and tie.

Things New and Strange, an Excerpt

In this excerpt from his book "Things New and Strange," Georgia Tech President Emeritus G. Wayne Clough recounts his journey from a small town in South Georgia to becoming the first Southern-born secretary of the Smithsonian Institution. After retiring, Clough undertook a unique project: exploring the Smithsonian's vast collections to see what they could teach him about the history and culture of his boyhood home. This quest revealed surprising artifacts and interconnected stories that helped him understand not just what his home was, but how and why it came to be.

Picture of Linda Griffith in an office

A Prescription for Kindness

For Linda Griffith, ChE 82, the Georgia Tech infirmary will always be near and dear to her heart as a place of tremendous kindness and caring.

Maggie Guillaume

'Happy and Independent'

How Georgia Tech’s EXCEL Program helps individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities create their own success.

three men standing in front of a car

Mercy and Mentorship

Georgia Tech’s Deans of Students might be best-known for showing kindness and compassion, but there are plenty of stories of faculty members helping students in need.

graphic of community minded tech

Community-Minded Tech

Georgia Tech has a ton of intellectual capital to help solve problems around the world. But what about problems that arise in Tech's own backyard? Here, we take a look at some of the Tech organizations and people who are helping communities in Atlanta and across Georgia.

wreckreastion banner

Wreckreation

From Astronomy Club to Humans vs. Zombies, explore a few of the 500+ student organizations Yellow Jackets can join at Georgia Tech.

Coach Brent Key on the field

Unlocked Potential

Georgia Tech Head Football Coach Brent Key, Mgt 01, brings hard work and hope to the Flats.

Michael Hearn running

A Yellow Jacket's Road To 200

Michael Hearn, Mgt 86, transformed his life by losing 200 pounds and setting a goal to run a half marathon in every U.S. state before age 65. Inspired by health challenges, family, and lessons learned at Georgia Tech, Hearn turned to running as both a physical and mental outlet. His journey—from bariatric surgery to completing 35 races and inspiring others through Men’s Health features and Atlanta Track Club ambassadorship—reflects his resilience, grit, and the joy of sharing races with his children.

Georgia Tech skyline

Present and Accounted For

After 75 years, the collective power of contributions to Roll Call, Tech's fund for excellence, is still making a huge difference. Read about how one of Tech's proudest traditions got rolling.

Wrek in the garage with the driver opening the door

A Dream Garage Comes True

With the new Reck Garage-officially unveiled this spring next to the John Lewis Student Center—Georgia Tech's iconic mascot will always have a prime parking spot in the heart of campus.

Jose Alvarado

Every Possession is Precious

"He would rather win than breathe." That was the late New York recruiting analyst Tom Konchalski describing Jose Alvarado as a high school basketball player.

10x10 Tech web header

10x10x Tech

Learn about 100 of the Institute’s most fascinating people, ideas, traditions, places and innovation — both old and new.

Variations of toilets

Reinventing the Toilet [to Provide Sanitation for 2.5 Billion People]

Shannon Yee, associate professor in Georgia Tech’s George W. Woodruff School of Mechanical Engineering, is leading a $13.5 million Gates Foundation–funded project to reinvent the toilet. With inspiration from the compact design of espresso machines, Yee and his team are developing sanitation technology that works without plumbing or sewerage, powered by as little as a single solar panel. The initiative aims to create six new prototypes within 42 months, addressing sanitation needs for the 2.5 billion people worldwide who currently lack access to improved systems.

gif of GT buildings

Ghost Buildings of Georgia Tech

These buildings may no longer exist on campus, but their memories remain, haunting generations of Yellow Jackets like ghosts of good times past.

Dr. Jim brown

Called to Serve and Share

Jim Brown, Bio 74, M.D., passes down his significant surgical expertise to the next generation of African surgeons.

A hand touching a digital screen with a security lock icon.

Securing the Future

Jordan Rackie, CEO of cybersecurity firm Keyfactor, is focused on providing security solutions for the world's largest companies as they navigate the digital age. His company secures everything from remote work infrastructure to critical medical devices and transportation systems, building in security from the design phase. A Georgia Tech alumnus, Rackie credits an entrepreneurship class and the strong Atlanta-based Tech network for helping to shape his successful career.

A diverse crowd of people runs in a race down a city street, all wearing athletic clothing and looking forward.

Pi Mile History

A tradition since 1973, the Pi Mile was originally named the Dean George C. Griffin Pi Mile to honor the longtime Georgia Tech track and cross-country coach. Founded by alumnus L. McTier "Mac" Anderson, the race expanded from its original 3 miles to the current 5K (3.14 miles) distance after 1975. Part of the race is run along the Tyler Brown Pi Mile Trail, a course dedicated to a former Student Government Association President killed in action in 2004.

A woman with curly auburn hair holds up a cocktail in a kitchen, smiling at the camera. A bottle of "Warm Winter Simple Syrup" sits on the counter in front of her.

The Pastry Engineer

Georgia Tech alumna Kia Benion, CE 13, combined her passions for civil engineering and baking to launch The Pastry Engineer in 2017. Her business uses the science of baking and, more recently, cocktail making to make STEM concepts more relatable for students and corporate clients. Through her workshops, Benion aims to build community and confidence by teaching the scientific formulas behind creating delicious food and drinks, including a custom Georgia Tech cocktail called the "Sting 'Em."

Carly Queen

Urban Sustainability

As president of the board of directors for groundwork Atlanta, Carly Queen helps lead sustainable farming projects.

view from a plane window looking out

Up, Up, & Away

Jenny Lentz Moore's favorite memory of flying a fighter jet being slingshotted off an aircraft at 150 mph. "It's incredible during the day; it's terrifying at night," she says. Moore is just one of the many Georgia Tech Alumni who have soared in the military, becoming some of the world's best aviators.

Sandy Magnus and Sandy Winnefeld

Enter The Adrenaline Zone

Former astronaut Sandy Magnus, PHD MSE 96, and ADM. Sandy Winnefeld, AE 78, launch a podcast all about taking risks.

Cabrera walking

A Sustainable Future

Georgia Tech President Ángel Cabrera recently sat down to discuss the wonders of the natural world, its inspiration for Yellow Jackets, and how the institute is helping create progress that's compatible with a healthy planet.

picture of the sidelines during a sports match

Fueling Up For Peak Performance

What athletes eat and drink off the field makes a difference in how they perform on it. Associate athletic director Leah Thomas knows a thing or two about that.

A colorful cartoon drawing of the Kendeda Building at Georgia Tech, featuring a road in the foreground and a large building with solar panels, a green wall, and large windows.

The Kendeda Building for Sustainable Innovative Design: Planting Seeds of Sustainable Design Across Campus

The Kendeda Building for Innovative Sustainable Design serves as a living laboratory at Georgia Tech, spreading its principles and practices across campus. Its influence is seen through pilot programs for hard-to-recycle materials and campus composting, research into energy-saving techniques, and the adoption of new, efficient audiovisual standards. Furthermore, the building inspires academic programs, student project teams, and long-term campus master planning, truly planting the seeds for a more sustainable future at Tech.

Tommy Klemis

Tender Memories

WHEN YOU HEAR the name Junior's Grill, what do you think of? Your answer likely depends on which decade you were on campus and patronized this beloved mainstay of the Tech community, which closed its doors and turned off its blue neon sign in 2011.

Tarbutton with a train

Railroad Legacy

Benjamin Tarbutton III, Mgt 94, describes Sandersville Railroad Company as "the fingers of the North American rail network," taking its freight to the larger railroads, which deliver goods all over the continent.

Katie Michell poses with books

Book Smart

Public policy alumna plans to tackle "book deserts" in a novel way.

President Cabrera cooking paella

Paella: A Family Tradition

Georgia Tech President Ángel Cabrera shares his family’s beloved paella recipe, inspired by summers in Valencia and years of practice—even cooking for Chef José Andrés.

Kettlerock Brewing ribbon-cutting ceremony

Kettlerock Brewing

Located in Peachtree Corners, this family-owned-and-operated brewery is buzzing with Georgia Tech grads.

Casey Igel

Casey Mo's Cookies

From a rat cap to the _ech tower missing a "T", this Yellow Jacket's culinary skills are straight out of Burdell's Institute of Baking.

Peter Chung with cofounder Sean Chang pictured at Mukja

Mukja

One of Atlanta's hottest new restaurants, Mukja started with two roommates and a killer recipe for fried chicken.

Burston drinking his rosé

Raise a Glass for Diversity

Donae Burston is a trailblazer in the rosé market, and he's pushing for greater inclusivity and representation in the luxury wine industry.

Yu Shrike holding a 3d printed object

Advancing Biomedical Solutions To Save Lives

Yu Shrike Zhang's career in biomedical engineering was inspired by the combination of two things during his childhood in China: his father, who worked in electrical engineering, and a love of nature.

man holding a bowl of chilis

Waffle House

The Name sake of Waffle House's famous chili, spills the beans (and bacon, jalapenos, sausage...)behind its creation.

Neil Aurelio, IE 98, and Mike Cundiff, AE 98 on an AFB

From Crud To Colonel

More than 20 years later, two Georgia Tech grads reunite at Davis-Monthan Air Force Base

Dr. G. Wayne Clough in Georgia Tech colors

A New Trajectory

Over 14 years, Dr. G Wayne Clough, president emeritus, worked to enrich both the intellect and the heart of Georgia Tech. His latest book details the choices and moments that made the greatest impact.

Steven McLaughlin pictured on Georgia Tech campus

Meet Georgia Tech's Provost

He launched Create-X, served as dean, and grew Tech's global initiatives. Now, Steven McLaughlin is leading Tech's academics into the future.

Lisa Yaszek poses in front of a bookshelf

How to "Win the Future" as Explained by Sci-Fi

The secret to navigating ethics in technology may be hiding in plain sight on your bookshelf. Georgia Tech's Lisa Yaszek, regents professor of science fiction studies, explains how the genre is the ideal vehicle for navigating the thorniest ethics issues in technology.

A professional headshot of a young man with dark hair, glasses, and a pinstripe suit. He is smiling faintly and looking directly at the camera.

TECH ALUMNI LED INTERNATIONAL EFFORT TO SUPPORT HOSPITALS, ARTISANS IN INDIA

In response to the Covid-19 pandemic and PPE shortages in India, Georgia Tech alumnus Arkadeep Kumar organized a group of Tech students and alumni to help. Inspired by Georgia Tech's on-campus efforts, the international team designed simple face shields and ingeniously partnered with out-of-work local artisans in Calcutta to fabricate and distribute them to hospitals. The initiative, which started with crowdfunding and grew to include non-profit support, successfully provided vital PPE while also creating employment for skilled workers during the lockdown.

First black students at Tech.

60 Years. Celebrating Our Past, Continuing Our Legacy.

Sixty years ago this September, Ford C. Greene, Ralph A. Long Jr., and Lawrence Williams became the first Black students to enroll at Georgia Tech, making the school the first public university in the Deep South to integrate peacefully, without a court order.

George Clarke with his dog

A Soldier's Best Friend

With his dog by his side, every week George Clarke Jr. brings comfort to veterans like himself.

Man walking in the halls of the Mars 2020 office

Message and a (Sample) Bottle

In sending Perseverance to Mars, Engineers had to completely rethink Manufacturing processes. "We had to build what is easily the cleanest thing we've ever sent to another planet. And quite possibly the cleanest thing humans have ever made," says Ian Clark, AE 03, MS AE 06, PhD AE 09, who was system engineer for sample cleanliness on Mars 2020.

image of Brad with GT memorabilia

Got Tickets? He Sure Does

Brad Edwards, IE 06, MS Stat 07, boasts the largest online collection of Georgia Tech Football stubs in the country.

Marilyn Somers sitting at her desk

The Rest Is History

Marilyn Somers, Hon 08, retired in December 2020, not only as a recorder of Tech's history but as a history-maker herself.

Mariana Brambilla

One Year Ago, The Game Changed

Since the first cases of Covid-19 were reported in the U.S. more than a year ago, there isn't a sport that hasn't been impacted in some way by the Pandemic. Georgia Tech student-Athletes reflect on how their seasons have changed.

GT Military Vets

From WWI to Present Day

For more than 100 years, members of the Georgia Tech community have served their country with honor and distinction. Their stories of service—including some of their efforts beyond the military—are both remarkable and inspiring. Here, we share just a few of their stories and accomplishments.

Suha Kayum speaking on a panel

You Can't Hide The Sun

Just 33, Suha Kayum has patented her own algorithm and is rapidly climbing the ranks at Saudi Aramco, all while championing women in STEM.

group of people on the golf course

Golf Lessons with a Legend

Yellow Jackets celebrated the rich history of Georgia Tech at East Lake Golf Club, home to golf legend Bobby Jones.

photo of Rick Clark

Demystifying Admissions

Georgia Tech’s leader on applications, enrollment and building a stellar first-year class separates fact from fiction—and the past from the present—to explain how it all works.

graphic of ethics at tech

Ethics at Tech

A quick explanation of the top 10 ethical issues in Tech, as told through the expertise of Georgia Tech students, faculty, and alumni.

Pitching Mock Up

Analyze This

Georgia Tech's new player training facility will push college baseball analytics into big-league territory.

A joyful woman in black sits on the floor next to a toilet overflowing with yellow and blue flowers.

Innovator: Jasmine Burton, CEO, Executive Director & Founder of Wish for WASH

Jasmine Burton, ID 14, pivoted her career focus at Georgia Tech to sanitation design after learning how the lack of safe toilets disproportionately harms women and girls globally. She led the first all-female team to win the InVenture Prize for their SafiChoo toilet and subsequently founded the organization Wish for WASH to innovate in the sector. Burton advocates for empathic design, ensuring that solutions are co-created with end-users to meet their actual needs and restore dignity.

An artist's concept of two satellites in space, with one deploying a large, reflective solar sail. Earth is visible in the background.

Sending Tiny Satellites into Big Space

Georgia Tech students and alumni successfully designed and built Prox-1, a nanosatellite launched aboard the SpaceX Falcon Heavy. Prox-1's primary mission was to deploy LightSail, a solar sailing satellite from the Planetary Society, marking a significant achievement for the young team involved. This project is one of several successful nanosatellite missions for Georgia Tech, with more planned for the future.

A group of seven people stand in front of large yellow letters spelling "TECH." The "C" has "SAA" on it. Everyone is wearing a face mask. The photo is taken outdoors on a sunny day.

STRENGTH IN NUMBERS: CELEBRATING 10 YEARS OF SAA

The Georgia Tech Student Alumni Association (SAA), founded 10 years ago by Laura Giglio, John Hanson, and Brandon Monroe, was created to foster stronger, lifelong connections between students and the university. Based on Alumni Association research showing that involved students become engaged alumni, the SAA was designed to be an easily accessible organization for all students, quickly becoming the largest group on campus after its launch in fall 2010. Overcoming initial challenges, the SAA's immediate success, marked by over 600 sign-ups on its first day, demonstrated a clear need for its mission of connecting generations of Yellow Jackets.

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Take to the Skies

The article highlights two Georgia Tech alumni who embody safety and innovation in aviation: Stacie Sire, CE 96, and Mike Rhodes, AE 01. Sire serves as Boeing's Director of Engineering for Fabrication, overseeing 2,000 engineers and driving efficiency in producing parts for commercial aircraft like the 787. Meanwhile, Rhodes works as an aerial firefighter, expertly piloting his 802F Fire Boss on dangerous, low-altitude missions to combat wildfires, showcasing precision and bravery.

A black and white image of a blueprint diagram for a mechanical device. The word "BLUEPRINT" is at the top in large, black font.

The Events That Shaped Us

Alumni from the classes of 1970, 1980, and 1995 share defining moments and memories from their years at Georgia Tech. From the tumultuous times of the late 1960s and a presidential visit in 1979 to the campus transformation for the 1996 Olympics, these events left a lasting impact. These shared experiences highlight the unique challenges, humor, and historical context that shaped each graduating class.

A portrait of a dark-haired woman looking to the side, with a yellow filter on the right and a blue filter on the left.

The Poetry of Waffles

Georgia Tech professor Karen Head, a lifelong fan of both poetry and Waffle House, was recently appointed as the official Waffle House Poet Laureate. Finding comfort and artistic inspiration in the restaurant chain since her grad school days, Head is now leveraging her new role, funded by the Waffle House Foundation, to tour rural Georgia high schools. Her mission is to share her passion for the arts, tell her own unconventional story of finding her way to college, and encourage students in underserved counties to pursue higher education.

Done Burston

Raise a Glass for Diversity

Donae Burston is a trailblazer in the Rose market, and he's pushing for greater inclusivity and representation in the luxury wine industry.

headshot of Xiaohang Li

Xiaohang Li

PhD ECE 15, Assistant Professor, King Abdullah University of Science and Technology

Elaheh Demirchelie

Fashion Forward

Tech Alumni collaborate to create a compostable, sustainable fashion brand.

sports stats for Darren Waller

You Can Call It A Comeback

Darren Waller, Mgt 14, struggled with addiction, but turned his life around, becoming one of the NFL’s top players.

Picture of fans sitting with masks on during the 1918 epidemic watching football

A Season Interrupted

A photo of fans looking like “bandits of a mild sort” resonates more than 100 years later. But it wasn’t the only anomaly from Tech’s 1918 football season.

cartoon graphic of GT students on the Ramblin' Wreck

Give me a Moment

Got a minute? Six Georgia Tech students take you into the most important moments of their day - and share exactly why they make all the difference.

Jorge Guzman

Antigua Cerveza

Jorge Guzman, IE 09, is Antigua Cerveza's on-the-ground leader in Guatemala and its head brewer.

John Foley and Yony Feng

Let It Ride

Peloton Co-Founders and Tech Alumni John Foley and Yony Feng took a chance on a risky business idea and disrupted the exercise industry by bringing high-tech indoor cycling classes (and more) into homes worldwide.

A woman with brown hair tied in a ponytail with a blue ribbon, smiling while looking away from the camera.

Kay Elizabeth Adams, IM 67: Systems Engineer And Devoted Yellow Jacket Fan

Kay Elizabeth Adams, IM 67, was a pioneering female student at Georgia Tech, a dedicated systems engineer, and a passionate supporter of the Yellow Jackets. As one of only 21 women in her freshman class, she was a varsity cheerleader and an active member of the Greek community before embarking on a 40-year career with IBM. Beyond her professional life, Adams was an avid sports fan who followed Tech teams across the country and a compassionate animal advocate who rescued over 200 cats.

Karen Head profile picture

The Poetry of Waffles

Georgia Tech professor Karen Head grew up loving Waffle House and poetry. The friendly yellow sign has been a source of comfort and artistic inspiration for her through the years. Recently, Head was appointed as the official Waffle House Poet Laureate — she even has the nametag to prove it. This fall, she’s leveraging her new role to drive across the state of Georgia and share her passion for poetry and arts with high school students in far-flung counties, tell them about her own circuitous path to a meaningful career, and convince them that they should go to college, too.

John Caddell pictured in front of his own Ramblin' Wreck

Give 'Em Hell, Caddell!

What do you get the “helluva engineer” in your life who has everything? For John Caddell’s family, the answer is his own Ramblin’ Wreck. His family surprised him for his 91st birthday with a near-perfect replica, complete with pennant flags that read, “Give ‘em Hell, Caddell!”

construction crane on a building site

Construction Time Again

Five Georgia Tech alumni share their expert views on the commercial building boom in Atlanta and beyond.

Glenn Gload

Back to Earth (Link)

As the new CEO of a one-time leading home online service provider, Tech alumnus Glenn Goad is striving to propel the Atlanta-based company back to the forefront of the internet industry.

Joey Bart in baseball uniform

High Prospects in the Low Minors

Former Tech standout player Joey Bart, Cls 19, may be the No. 1 catching prospect in Major League Baseball, but he’s already learned the road to the majors won’t be easy.

terminal

Domestic Terminal Bliss

Trailblazing Tech graduates add their touches on the massive project to modernize one of the busiest airports in the world Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta‚ and inspire today's students to follow in their footsteps.

Mike Ross professional photo

Bringing The Farm Indoors

Mike Ross, AE 14, and his brother, Jack, created Beanstalk Inc., a high-tech indoor, vertical farming company to provide food distributors with fresh produce at reduced costs and distances.

cruise ship

Excursion Expertise

Here’s some adventure advice from Georgia Tech’s Martin Ludwig, one of the top professionals in the alumni travel industry.

Rich Staten photo with a Coca Cola bottle

A Major Change in the Flight Plan

Rich Staten, AE 88, proves that a Tech education can be versatile for virtually any career by moving from designing fighter jets to marketing soft drinks.

A comic grid with humorous ways to make a choice, like using a magic 8-ball, rock-paper-scissors, or a coin flip.

Decisions, Decisions

When you come to that fork in the road, how do you choose which way to go? Let these Georgia Tech experts shed some light onto the forces at play when we’re faced with decisions both big and small, how the brain works through them, and the ways artificial intelligence can help.

A male professional wrestler with long hair and tattoos, wearing a black vest and pants, crouches in a wrestling ring with a crowd and bright neon signs behind him.

A Cage Match With the Highest Stakes

Former Georgia Tech football standout Joe Anoai, Cls 06, known as WWE superstar Roman Reigns, announced in October 2018 that he was vacating his championship title to battle a recurrence of leukemia. First diagnosed at age 22, Anoai faces this new fight with a strong support system, including his wife and fellow alumna Galina Becker, Mgt 09, and is determined to return to his wrestling career. Anoai credits the tight-knit community and culture at Georgia Tech for giving him the drive to persevere through his transition from football to wrestling and in his ongoing health battle.

Members of the Hope's Path pray together

A House Full of Hope

Co-founded by alumnus Brian Dunn, IE 98, Hope’s Path helps former foster kids build lasting relationships and find success as adults.

HMS Otranto photo

An Imperfect Storm

Two Georgia Tech alumni share a link to the tragic sinking of the HMS Otranto during World War I.

Ben Horst sitting on a classic car

Electric Dreams

Gas-guzzling classic sports-cars get major performance and eco-friendly upgrades at Atlanta-area startup Eddy Motorworks, co-founded by Tech alumnus Ben Horst.

Delivering Water

Delivering Water in Hard-To-Reach Places

When an earthquake devastated Haiti in 2010, Benjamin Cohen and fellow student Apoorv Sinha came up with an idea to provide mobile infrastructure to places hit hard by natural disasters.

Molly Chester and her husband on their farm

Landing in her Place

Georgia Tech alum Molly Chester turned 240 acres of depleted California land into Apricot Lane Farms, a thriving model of regenerative, organic farming.

Renay Ingram by the classroom door

From Doubtful Student to Enthusiatic Teacher

Rena Ingram entered Georgia Tech aiming for a PhD in chemistry and a career in forensic science, inspired by her love of CSI. But after struggling with stress and self-doubt, she realized her true passion was teaching. Now, she’s using her science background to inspire students in underserved Georgia schools through a prestigious teaching fellowship.

rotc flag crew

100 Years of ROTC at Georgia Tech

From their roots in a student-run Signal Corps, Georgia Tech’s Reserve Officers’ Training Corps programs have trained thousands of military and industry leaders.

Picture of John Portman

A Legacy Built to Last

John Portman Jr., Arch 50, not only helped shape the skylines of 60 cities, but also has influenced generations of Georgia Tech architects, artists, and developers.

photo of Julian Hoke Harris

Tech's Brilliant Sculptor

Julian Hoke Harris, Arch 28, was an architect, part-time Institute professor and prolific artist whose work endures on campus and throughout Georgia.

Picture of a group of students and teachers

Structural Sojourn

A team of Tech freshmen explored culture and architecture after earning a rare invitation to a design competition in China.

Students sitting on a wall ledge

Learning to be Social Leaders

A study-abroad program in Central Europe teaches students first-hand how businesses and nonprofits can change the world.

Antarctica with people of snow sled

Under Ice

A team of Georgia Tech researchers and grad students are exploring Antarctica's depths for clues to what might be found on Europa.

Esther and Jacob standing in fron of a Waterfall

Travel to Live, Live to Travel

Two young Georgia Tech alumni prove that you can give up your day job to pursue your dreams of adventure—and blog all about it.

Students stressed while studying

How to Rebound from Failure

Which of these resilience-building strategies worked for you as a student? Share your best strategies with fellow Yellow Jackets on LinkedIn.

Wearable heart monitor

Mending a Broken Heart

Georgia Tech researchers are pioneering innovations to keep hearts strong—from regenerative collagen patches and RNA pacemakers to stem cell therapy and wearable monitors. While still in development, these treatments offer hope for the future of cardiovascular care.

A photo from space showing a wide view of the curved Earth and the blackness of space above it. The title "INTO ORBIT" is written in large white letters in the center of the image.

Shane Kimbrough: Life on the International Space Station

Georgia Tech alumnus and NASA astronaut Shane Kimbrough, MS OR 98, shares an inside look at his six-month mission as commander of the International Space Station. From his childhood dream of spaceflight to the rigorous training in Russia and the technical details of daily life in microgravity, Kimbrough describes the challenges and wonders of his journey. He reflects on the profound experience of viewing Earth from the station's Cupola and the dynamic, bumpy ride back home after 189 days in orbit.

A dark-haired woman in a red-lit room with posters on the wall looks off to the side.

Then a Funny Thing Happened

Sarah Cooper, MS DM 01, left a comfortable and successful corporate career in user-experience design at companies like Yahoo! and Google to pursue the uncertain world of comedy. Her big break came from a viral blog post, "10 Tricks to Appear Smart in Meetings," which drew from her sly observations of corporate culture and led to a book deal. Now a successful comedian and author, Cooper embraces the discomfort of her new career, using her wit to satirize the tech world and workplace dynamics while encouraging others to follow their passions.

video game conference in an large arena

Game Changers

Tech alumni and students are thriving as video game players, team owners and developers in the rising world of eSports.

Dr. Phil Adler

Dr. Phil Adler: A Legacy of Respect

Many Yellow Jackets swore at legendary management professor Phil Adler during his 38 years of teaching at the Institute, but today most of his former students just swear by him.

Annika and Keegan Van Gunst

The Van Gunst Twins: Volleyball Stars

Discover the remarkable journey of the Van Gunst twins, who excelled in volleyball and engineering, transitioning from collegiate stars to professional athletes on the AVP Tour.

cake race

Then & Now: 10 Tech Traditions

A photographic look at how Tech’s storied traditions have survived generations of Yellow Jacket students and still thrive on campus today.

Bianca Stewart posing for a photo

Dollars and Sense Bianca Stewart Fashion Designer

Finding stylish, comfortable clothes has always been something of a tall order for Bianca Stewart, BA 14, a former Tech student-athlete who stands at 6 feet without heels and towers over the average-to-petite women for whom most ready-to-wear clothes are designed.

A futuristic white spacecraft with an open hatch approaches a space station.

The Future of Spaceflight

Georgia Tech alumni Luke Roberson of NASA and Daniel Yeh of USF are developing the next generation of water recycling systems to support missions to the Moon and Mars. Their Organic Processor Assembly (OPA) is a closed-loop system that recycles 100% of astronaut waste, extracting water and nutrients for hydroponic food production. This innovative technology, which surpasses concepts seen in science fiction, is being tested by NASA for potential use in the Artemis program.

image of a 1996 Atlanta olympic banner

Our Olympic Legacy

A look at how the Centennial Olympic Games changed Georgia Tech 20 years ago.

Brandon Cox with Machu Pichu in the background

A Lifetime of Adventures

My quest to understand the human experience has fueled my travels to all seven continents and 149 countries before I turned 35 years old.