Kennedy honored for studies with asphalt
Dr. Thomas W. Kennedy
Technical Director, SCSC
The Association of Asphalt Paving Technologists named Thomas W. Kennedy, UT professor of civil engineering, an honorary member at their 75th annual meeting in March.
Fewer than 20 people have received honorary membership in the AAPT's 75 year history, Kennedy said. It is the highest award the Association confers.
"I was surprised when I found I'd been nominated and very pleased," Kennedy said. "When your peers and colleagues come forth and honor you this way, it's something you feel very strongly about."
To be named an honorary member, a candidate must be nominated by a current member, be unanimously approved by the board of directors and pass a majority vote by the AAPT's membership.
"It's a very unique recognition of his service to that group," said James Jirsa, chairman of the Department of Civil Engineering. "This is a fairly specialized area, but a very important one when you consider all the [asphalt] highways and roads around the country."
Both Kennedy and Wallace Fowler, UT professor of aerospace and mechanical engineering, have received prestigious awards related to the field of engineering in recent months.
"One is being recognized for research in design of pavements and another for their interest in teaching and education of engineers, and it seems to me that it's a sign or indication of how balanced and strong our programs are," Jirsa said.
Seven of the University's engineering programs are ranked among the top 12 universities in the country, said Ben Streetman, dean of the UT College of Engineering.
Kennedy, whose focus is the development of new materials and technical procedures, has been involved in the management of several large governmental programs for asphalt paving currently being implemented internationally.
Kennedy began at the University in 1964 as an assistant professor and has since served as associate chairman of the Department of Civil Engineering, associate vice president for the University and associate dean for research and development for the College of Engineering. He was also previously the president of the AAPT and a member of its board of directors.
Kennedy also received the Ron Kenyon Award from the National Asphalt Paving Association in February 1991.
AAPT, established in 1924, consists of approximately 2,000 members worldwide. Its membership is drawn mainly from oil refineries, chemical companies, consultants and universities. Its emphasis is primarily on the development of new technologies and the promotion of quality products for paving purposes, Kennedy said.