Foundations of Legacy: Laksh Narayanaswami

How has Embry‑Riddle changed or evolved during your tenure?

Since I joined Embry‑Riddle, it has changed from an institution focused on teaching to one with a focus on both coursework and research. This shift has resulted in notable growth in the number of faculty and staff, the number of programs and, needless to say, the number of students. The growth has also been accompanied by significant expansion of facilities. When I joined, the number of faculty members in Aerospace Engineering was about 10, and it has now almost quadrupled.

Aerospace Engineering was the only engineering program, and there were no colleges in their present form. Now there are many engineering programs and several colleges. I do not believe any of the buildings that formed the campus then still exist, and none of the buildings we see on campus today existed then. The structure I most remember from then is a pentagonal-shaped classroom building. Even after several semesters of teaching classes there, I had trouble locating specific classrooms in it!

What has been your favorite part of working at the university?

Interacting, teaching and learning from the students must be my favorite part of working at the university. The energy and enthusiasm they bring has been infectious and has helped me stay motivated over the years.

What accomplishment at Embry‑Riddle are you most proud of?

I have been associated with the development of the honors program, the accelerated Aerospace Engineering program and the propulsion area of concentration in Aerospace Engineering. I have also been involved with the BSAE program accreditation process over the years. As important as these undertakings have been, the most satisfying accomplishment for me, I should say, would be my involvement in preparing so many students for productive careers over the years and the appreciation these students have shown by recognizing me many times as the outstanding faculty in Aerospace engineering.