Author: Grace Laurence

Finishing Fellowship- Spring 2025- Jessica LaReaux

As a PhD candidate in civil engineering, my research focuses on water resources engineering, with an emphasis on urban green space and rainfall flood risk equity. My work addresses critical challenges in the Great Lakes region, including the impacts of urban flooding and the role of green infrastructure in promoting urban sustainability and resilience. To assess urban green space and rainfall flood risk, I used high-resolution topography and land cover data, geospatial analysis methods, and socioeconomic datasets to develop comprehensive urban green space and flood risk equity maps. By identifying spatial patterns of flood vulnerability and green space distribution, my research highlights areas where targeted interventions can have the most significant impact. This approach aims to reduce inequalities, build community resilience, and enhance urban health and well-being—especially as extreme weather events become more frequent. These projects deepened my understanding of geospatial and hydrological systems while fostering an awareness of how environmental challenges intersect with social equity.

Nominations Open for 2025 MAGS Excellence in Teaching Awards

Nominations are now open for the Midwestern Association of Graduate Schools (MAGS) Excellence in Teaching Awards.  Michigan Tech may nominate one student at the MS and PhD level. Each graduate program may nominate one student at the MS and PhD level. Nominations are due to the Graduate School no later than 4pm, December 11, 2024.

Eligible students

  • will have been enrolled at Michigan Tech during the 2024 calendar year and have a teaching appointment
  • will have earned the Michigan Tech Outstanding Graduate Student Teaching Award
  • will exemplify excellence in the teaching and learning mission of Michigan Tech

See the application page for complete details on what is required for a nomination

Finishing Fellowship- Spring 2025- Jessica LaReaux

As a PhD candidate in civil engineering, my research focuses on water resources engineering, with an emphasis on urban green space and rainfall flood risk equity. My work addresses critical challenges in the Great Lakes region, including the impacts of urban flooding and the role of green infrastructure in promoting urban sustainability and resilience. To assess urban green space and rainfall flood risk, I used high-resolution topography and land cover data, geospatial analysis methods, and socioeconomic datasets to develop comprehensive urban green space and flood risk equity maps. By identifying spatial patterns of flood vulnerability and green space distribution, my research highlights areas where targeted interventions can have the most significant impact. This approach aims to reduce inequalities, build community resilience, and enhance urban health and well-being—especially as extreme weather events become more frequent. These projects deepened my understanding of geospatial and hydrological systems while fostering an awareness of how environmental challenges intersect with social equity.