For more than 185 years, The University of Alabama Lee J. Styslinger Jr. College of Engineering has served the state, nation and global community by advancing the boundaries of knowledge through innovative research and education of the next generation of leaders. As student enrollment, research activity and national recognition continue to rise, sustained investment in exceptional faculty remains a central College priority.
Now entering its third and final year, the Hewson Engineering Faculty Fellows program continues to reinforce that commitment. Established by a $300,000 pledge from the Hewson Family Foundation in 2023, the program provides annual stipends for selected faculty members. This funding can support research initiatives, conference attendance, laboratory development, student mentorship and other opportunities for career growth.
“I am delighted to congratulate our new 2025-26 class of fellows,” said Dr. Clifford Henderson, dean of the Styslinger College of Engineering. “These outstanding early-career faculty scholars are among the brightest and most talented rising leaders in research and engineering and computer science education. Their energy, creativity and commitment to excellence will strengthen our departments and elevate the impact and trajectory of our College.”
With the selection of the third class, the Hewson program cements itself as a driver of faculty retention and advancement, propelling the College forward. Through their lasting stewardship, the Hewson family has created pathways to valuable career opportunities, research breakthroughs and professional development for the College’s students and faculty alike.
“The continued generosity of the Hewson Family Foundation strengthens our mission and empowers our faculty to pursue bold, innovative work that elevates the Styslinger College of Engineering,” said Brian Boyle, associate senior director of development for the College. “Their enduring investment has been nothing short of transformative, fueling discovery, inspiring excellence and advancing the impact of engineering education at The University of Alabama.”
“The support provided by the Hewson family is tremendously helpful to the faculty and College as we continue working to provide a terrific learning environment for our students. I want to express our sincerest gratitude to the Hewson family for their partnership with us in this important faculty success program,” Henderson said.
The third class of Hewson Engineering Faculty Fellows includes Dr. Matthew Blair, Dr. Sayanton Dibbo, Dr. Lin Gao, Dr. Noorbakhsh Amiri Golilarz, Dr. Zhiheng Lyu, Dr. Lusha Wang and Dr. C. Taber Wanstall.
Dr. Matthew Blair
Dr. Lusha Wang
Dr. Zhiheng Lyu
Dr. C. Taber Wanstall
Dr. Sayanton Dibbo
Dr. Noorbakhsh Amiri Golilarz
Dr. Lin Gao