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The engineering deans from Alabama A&M University and Virginia State University presented the Capt. Donnie Cochran Legacy Award at the Historically Black College and University (HBCU) Deans Recognition Event held during the annual BEYA STEM Conference in February.
"Captain Donnie L. Cochran was the 1989 Black Engineer of the Year," began Dr. Z.T. Deng from Alabama A&M University. "In 1986, he became the first Black aviator assigned to the United States Navy Flight Demonstration Squadron, also known as the Blue Angels. Capt. Cochran later assumed command of the Blue Angels."
Dr. Camille Daniel, a cybersecurity executive leader, has led the Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory team for over seventeen years. Her team had significantly impacted the U.S. Navy and military joint force's ability to conduct their missions successfully. In addition, she works on Navy defense cyber and submarine warfare programs at Johns Hopkins University and serves on various working groups and committees there and within the Navy community.
"Dr. Daniel fiercely advocates for diversity and inclusion with JHU APL and her community," continued the dean of Virginia State University, Dr. Dawit Haile. "She was the co-chair of the Women and Minority Advisory Council at APL, a member of various forums and efforts, and volunteers for several STEM-related efforts throughout the year. This year, she is the program chair for the 2023 Submarine Technologies Symposium, a classified three-day conference attended by 600 leaders from the Navy, industry, and academia."
Dr. Daniel earned her a 2016 Women of Color Technology Award, the 2015 BEYA Science Trailblazer Award, and the JHU APL Diversity Award in 2007, 2015, and 2016.
"Thank you for this honor," Dr. Daniel said in her acceptance speech. "I'm only halfway through my career lifespan, but I am honored to be standing here and receiving this Legacy Award. I'm fully aware that I'm being recognized for only 17 years of service and achievement, but this helps to motivate me and push me for at least 17 more years in STEM service. I am grateful to all my mentors, colleagues, friends, and family who have walked alongside me and provided me the guidance, support, and inspiration...We realize the promise of scientific advancement for all through catalytic action, collaboration, perseverance, and resilience."