Kristen is one of the most professional individuals I have encountered and truly cares about the quality of her work. Kristen understands, and continues to respect, how much economic growth relies upon the integrity and advancement of our transportation infrastructure. After she earns her Master’s degree, she will continue to improve the ransportation infrastructure in the U.S. Kristen has done extensive research in the area of pavement materials as a Graduate Research Assistant in Rutgers Asphalt Pavement Laboratory (RAPL). As a part of laboratory activities, Kristen investigated the effects of UV aging on the performance of crumb rubber binder films. In addition, she was very instrumental in the implementation of necessary procedures for RAPL to receive AMRL certification for asphalt binder evaluation. In the process she has mastered the use of many advanced instruments.

Kristen stands alone amidst the competition because not only does he possess great knowledge of bituminous materials, she is also a pleasure to work with. She is a valuable colleague beyond her contributions in research. She trains undergraduates to use equipment in both the Civil Engineering Concrete Laboratory and the AMRL accredited Hot Mix Asphalt Laboratory, and assists other graduate students and post-doctoral staff with their research. It should be mentioned that in addition to the graduate work towards her M.S degree, Kristen also met requirements to receive a certificate in Engineering Geophysics.

While not occupied by her graduate studies and research, Kristen is actively involved in professional societies, like Rutgers Women in Engineering Leadership League, sport clubs, and is mentoring students in engineering and science. Therefore, Kristen Derewecki is an outstanding graduate student worthy of being recognized as Student of the Year.