University Park, Pa. -- Judith Todd, the P.B. Breneman department head chair of engineering science and mechanics, was among the mentors of scientists and engineers recognized Friday (Nov. 16) at a White House ceremony with President George W. Bush.

Todd was one of only 11 to win the 2006 Presidential Award for Excellence in Science, Mathematics and Engineering Mentoring (PAESMEM).

Todd was cited for her record of mentoring women engineers at all levels of their careers. At Penn State, she developed the Strategic Pathways to Equity and Leadership: Preparing for the Professoriate Program. The program requires mentoring aspiring and current faculty members about the importance of the search, recruitment, advancement opportunities, recognition and promotion and tenure practices as leadership opportunities in their careers. Todd is the first woman to head an engineering department at Penn State.

Created in 1996, the PAESMEM recognizes the importance of mentors in the academic and personal development of students and colleagues who are underrepresented in the fields of science, technology, engineering and mathematics.

The awards are supported and administered by the National Science Foundation.

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