Prof. Mavris has received Georgia Tech’s Class of 1934 Distinguished Professor Award for 2024. This award recognizes outstanding achievement in teaching, research, and service. It is the highest honor given to a Georgia Tech professor. Created in 1984 by the Class of 1934 in observance of its 50th reunion, the award is presented to an active professor who has made significant, long-term contributions — contributions that have brought widespread recognition to the professor, to their school, and to the Institute.

Prof. Mavris was nominated for the award based on his significant contributions throughout his 30+ year career at Georgia Tech’s on its impact and reputation through his teaching, research, and service activities, both internally and externally. “In every aspect, Professor Mavris exemplifies leadership, commitment, and a deep passion for aerospace education and research,” commented Mitchell Walker, Professor and Chair, School of Aerospace Engineering.

“I am deeply grateful to be the recipient of Georgia Tech’s Class of 1934 Distinguished Professor Award. It is a great honor to be recognized by the Institute in this way,” said Mavris. My heartful thanks to Aerospace Engineering School chair Mitchell Walker for nominating me and past chair Vigor Yang for spearheading the nomination. I also appreciate the endorsements from Georgia Tech peers, industry colleagues, and former students,” he continued.

Marvis is a Regents Professor in the School of Aerospace Engineering and Director of the Aerospace Systems Design Laboratory (ASDL). The lab was established in 1992 as a center for multi-disciplinary design and optimization, systems engineering, and technology assessments. Since its foundation, Mavris has grown ASDL to be a leader in the area of systems design, architecting, and optimization. Under his leadership, it has developed into the largest lab of its kind and has established a global reputation for excellence for both its rigorous educational program and impactful research activities. Mavris became and professor at Georgia Tech in 1997, and since that time 1,343 degrees have been conferred to ASDL students–287 PhDs and 1,056 MS degrees.

“Professor Mavris does not just teach; he immerses his students in real-world engineering problems, equipping them with the skills and knowledge to excel,” explained Walker.

“My career has been a journey of self-discovery, finding ways to become a more effective researcher and educator,” reflected Mavris. “Georgia Tech’s model of service teaches us to be unselfish in our time and share with students–not to see people and other entities as competitors. It is gratifying to me that many of the students that I taught have become professors and will help carry on ASDL’s legacy.”

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