The College of Engineering launched the Impact Awards in 2018 to coincide with its celebration of 150 years of engineering education at the University of Georgia. The awards recognize deserving alumni and friends for their exceptional impact on and service to the college and their respective industries and communities.
The college is pleased to announce the 2024 Impact Award recipients.
Alumni Impact Award
Becky Tolbert, B.S. Agricultural Engineering ’81
The Alumni Impact Award recognizes a College of Engineering alum whose impact has been shown in their professional career, service to their field and their community and their alma mater.
Becky Tolbert graduated with honors from the University of Georgia in 1981, making history as the third woman to graduate in engineering from UGA. Her impact and dedication to students and the university are seen through her investment in the Robert H. Brown Engineering Scholarship, Georgia Women Give, and the Magill Society. As a leader in her field, Becky excelled in her role as a Senior Sales Engineer at Westinghouse Electric Corporation, earning accolades such as Georgia Power Supplier Sales Representative of the Year. Passionate about community service, she has been actively involved in initiatives supporting childhood cancer research and various church and volunteer organizations. Becky’s achievements in her professional and volunteer work are a further testament to her commitment to serving others.
Young Alumni Impact Award
Jack Bush, B.S. Mechanical Engineering ’20
The Young Alumni Impact Award recognizes a UGA Engineering alum who graduated in the previous 10 years whose impact has been shown in their professional career, service to the field and their community and their alma mater.
Jack Bush is a class of 2020 graduate with a B.S. in Mechanical Engineering who is currently excelling in LM Aeronautics’ Engineering Leadership Development Program. Recently and notably, he led a 17-month C-130 aircraft modification project in Indonesia. Beyond his professional achievements, Jack actively supports the college as a member of our Alumni Board and through contributions to multiple engineering scholarships.
Friend of the College Impact Award
Ashley & Lee Madray
The Friend of the College Impact Award recognizes a friend of UGA Engineering whose impact has been shown in their organization’s mission or individuals’ professional career, service to their field and community and to UGA Engineering.
Ashley T. Madray, earned his Bachelor of Science in Business Education from the University of Georgia in 1980, where he also excelled as a three-year letterman for the UGA Football team. With over three decades of experience in the gas industry, Ashley founded Gas Innovations in 2002, where he serves as President and a member of the Board of Directors. Ashley’s commitment to excellence and industry collaboration is further demonstrated through his active participation and leadership in various organizations, including Gas Innovations LNG Refrigerants, Meritus Gas Partners, Sovereign Energy Solutions, and Caring Friends Indeed.
Allena Sewell Madray (Lee) is a dedicated professional with a diverse background in education, healthcare, and the arts. A graduate of Wayne County High School and the University of Georgia, she spent 20 years as a Pre-K educator. Throughout her career, she has also contributed her time and talents to various volunteer initiatives in the Houston area. Notably, she is a breast cancer survivor and has spent over 1000 hours volunteering at the M D Anderson Cancer Center. Lee’s commitment to service, resilience, and creativity continues to positively impact the lives of others.
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Impact Award honorees will be recognized at the College of Engineering’s 2024 Celebration of Excellence Award Ceremony on April 2nd.
