Janeen Uzzell Achieves Prestigious Membership at the National Academy of Engineering

Celebrating Engineering Excellence: Janeen Uzzell's Election to NAE

In a remarkable achievement, Janeen Uzzell, the Chief Executive Officer of the National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE), has been elected as a member of the National Academy of Engineering (NAE). This honor places her among a distinguished class of engineers recognized for their contributions and influence in the field. The announcement, made on March 5, 2025, highlights the growing recognition of diversity and innovation in engineering. Uzzell's election to the NAE is not only a personal triumph but also a significant milestone for the NSBE and the broader community of Black engineers.

Recognizing Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion

Uzzell has been a leading voice for promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion within the engineering profession. She has dedicated her career to improving health outcomes and ensuring access to vital health information across the globe. Her efforts have focused particularly on serving underrepresented communities, making her recognition by the NAE both appropriate and timely.

The NAE is an independent nonprofit organization established to provide objective advice on engineering and technology issues in the United States. It reflects a commitment to excellence in engineering practices, technological advancement, education, and investigative leadership, and Uzzell’s election signifies her outstanding achievements in these areas.

A Leader in Health and Engineering

Throughout her career, Uzzell has made significant strides in integrating health equity into engineering practices. She believes that engineers play a crucial role in addressing global health challenges, particularly regarding accessibility and quality of care. Whether through innovative health technology or strategic community initiatives, her work exemplifies how engineering can not only solve technical problems but also effectuate positive societal change.

As the leader of NSBE, Uzzell has positively impacted the lives of thousands of students and professionals by expanding opportunities for Black engineers in academia, government, and industry. Under her guidance, the organization strives to empower its members to excel academically and professionally while advocating for increased representation and recognition in the engineering community.

Future Aspirations and Community Impact

In her statement upon receiving the NAE honor, Uzzell expressed her gratitude for the acknowledgment and reiterated her commitment to creating meaningful change through engineering. She remarked, "As CEO of NSBE, I remain steadfast in my mission to expand opportunities for Black engineers and ensure that diversity, equity, and inclusion remain at the forefront of engineering innovation."

The NAE plans to formally induct Uzzell and the other newly elected members at its upcoming annual meeting in Washington, D.C., scheduled for October 2025. This event will not only celebrate their accomplishments but will serve as a platform to discuss the future of engineering, particularly how it can integrate diversity more effectively.

The significance of Uzzell's election is monumental, both for her and for the NSBE, symbolizing the ongoing journey toward equitable representation within STEM fields. Her leadership showcases that with dedication and commitment, engineers can authentically contribute to technological advancements while championing social equity.

About NSBE

Founded in 1975, the National Society of Black Engineers has grown to become one of the largest student-governed organizations in the United States, boasting over 22,000 members and more than 800 chapters worldwide. Its mission remains focused on increasing the number of culturally responsible Black engineers who not only excel in their careers but also make positive impacts in their communities. To learn more about NSBE and its initiatives, visit www.nsbe.org.