SEAoT Awards
Guide for Writing a Nomination Letter for the Wilbur C. Schoeller Award
The Wilbur C. Schoeller Award honors individuals in the Structural Engineers Association of Texas (SEAoT) for their personal character, professional ethics, and significant contributions to the structural engineering profession. This guide will help you write a nomination letter for someone you believe embodies these qualities.
Note: This guide is not a template or the format expected by SEAoT for nomination letters. It simply serves as a base for those who may need a starter. You are free to use your own style when writing a nomination letter.
1. Introduction: Identify the Nominee
Start by clearly stating the name of the person you are nominating and their current role in the structural engineering field. Mention their membership with SEAoT, as the award requires the recipient to be a member.
- Example: “I am honored to nominate [Nominee’s Full Name], a member of the Structural Engineers Association of Texas, for the Wilbur C. Schoeller Award.”
2. Connection to Wilbur C. Schoeller’s Legacy
Connect the nominee’s background to the legacy of Wilbur C. Schoeller. Highlight how the nominee reflects the character, achievements, and dedication to education and structural engineering that Dr. Schoeller demonstrated throughout his career.
- Example: “[Nominee’s Name] embodies the legacy of Dr. Wilbur C. Schoeller through their commitment to education, their ethical practice, and their service to the structural engineering profession. Much like Dr. Schoeller, they have made significant contributions that have advanced the profession.”
3. Professional Achievements
Describe specific achievements or milestones in the nominee’s career. These could include noteworthy projects, publications, innovations in structural engineering, leadership in the field, or contributions to the community.
- Example: “[Nominee’s Name] has been involved in [specific projects or achievements] that have elevated the standards of structural engineering. Their work in [specific area] has been widely recognized and continues to benefit both their colleagues and the broader community.”
4. Service to the Community and SEAoT
Discuss the nominee’s involvement in SEAoT, their service to the engineering community, and any mentoring, leadership, or volunteer roles. Highlight how they have contributed to the advancement of the profession and the community, much like Dr. Schoeller’s own dedication.
- Example: “In addition to their professional accomplishments, [Nominee’s Name] has been actively involved in SEAoT, serving as [specific roles or contributions]. Their leadership has inspired other engineers, and their dedication to mentoring has fostered a new generation of structural engineers.”
5. Personal Character and Ethics
A crucial element of this award is the nominee’s character and ethical standards. Reflect on their integrity, professionalism, and respect within the community. You may include personal stories or examples of how their character has positively impacted others.
- Example: “[Nominee’s Name] is known for their unwavering integrity and strong ethical standards. Their colleagues often speak of their reliability, professionalism, and the respect they command within the structural engineering community.”
6. Conclusion: Summarize the Nominee’s Qualifications
End the letter by reaffirming why the nominee is deserving of the Wilbur C. Schoeller Award based on their accomplishments, service, and character.
- Example: “For these reasons, I strongly believe that [Nominee’s Name] is an exemplary candidate for the Wilbur C. Schoeller Award. Their dedication to the profession, their leadership within SEAoT, and their commitment to excellence reflect the very best of what this award represents.”
7. Additional Details
If relevant, include the nominee’s resume, publications, or any other supporting documents that strengthen the nomination.
Checklist for Nominators:
- Confirm the nominee is a SEAoT member.
- Provide clear examples of professional achievements.
- Highlight community service and involvement in SEAoT.
- Demonstrate the nominee’s personal character and ethics.
- Reflect on how the nominee embodies the legacy of Wilbur C. Schoeller.