“The Honors Program has taught me so much about self-reflection. It’s helped me grow as a professional and as a person, giving me tools to break down complex situations and identify the best path forward. Also, the people and staff involved are absolutely incredible—many of them have become mentors to me throughout my time in the Honors College.”
That sense of growth, connection, and purpose is exactly what defines Elizabeth Kornexl, the 2026 recipient of the Pavlis Honors College Dean’s Scholarship.
Awarded annually, the Dean’s Scholarship recognizes students who have made meaningful contributions to the Honors College while actively strengthening its community and visibility. Elizabeth exemplifies this mission through her leadership, mentorship, and deep engagement across campus.
As a member of the Pavlis Honors College Undergraduate Student Advisory Board (USAB), Elizabeth plays an active role in shaping the student experience. From organizing events that connect students with alumni and industry mentors to fostering spaces where students can build community, her impact is both intentional and lasting.
“My proudest moment would be the first time I planned and ran my own event for the Honors College,” she shares. “Seeing the students show up, relax, and connect with the people around them was gratifying. I love knowing that I have had a positive impact on somebody’s day, and giving people an opportunity to make new friends is always satisfying.”
Beyond Pavlis, Elizabeth brings the same energy and curiosity to her work in the Advanced Metalworks Enterprise. There, she combines technical skill with hands-on problem-solving, contributing to projects that push her beyond the boundaries of a traditional mechanical engineering curriculum.
“This year’s challenge is to design a horseman’s axe,” she explains. “Our design turned out really well—we had a lot of fun testing it on some watermelons. We’re excited to see how we place! The other project the team is completing is materials testing on extruded aluminum with varying levels of silicon and magnesium. The project has given me insight into so many different areas of material science I never would have learned from my ME curriculum.”
Faculty and staff across the Honors College have recognized Elizabeth not only for her technical abilities, but for her systems thinking, leadership, and commitment to community. Whether in the classroom, on her Enterprise team, or through student leadership, she consistently brings together engineering practice, organizational insight, and a genuine passion for helping others succeed.
For Elizabeth, the value of her experience comes down to one thing: getting involved.
“Enterprise has been the most fun and rewarding academic experience I have ever had,” she says. “The engineering challenges presented have been intense, and they pull you completely outside the scope of your normal degree program. I have met some pretty awesome people, too. I highly recommend joining as soon as possible—I certainly wish I had started when I was a freshman.”
Her advice to incoming students is simple but powerful:
“Do as much as you possibly can. Try everything, get involved, and meet amazing people. Tech is full of so many opportunities to find something you’re passionate about.”
As the eighth recipient of the Pavlis Honors College Dean’s Scholarship, Elizabeth Kornexl joins a distinguished group of student leaders who embody the spirit of the program. Her dedication, curiosity, and commitment to building community reflect the very best of what it means to be a Pavlis student.