On April 10, the ECE Department celebrated graduates of the 2024-2025 academic year. Eight outstanding students were honored for their achievements.
Undergraduate of the Year – Lukas Crockett
Lukas (pictured left) received high praise from the faculty who nominated him for this award, saying that he is known for his kindness, reliability, and sharp problem-solving skills. He has consistently demonstrated the ability to quickly accomplish complex tasks in his courses and the research lab, from troubleshooting complex systems to running stubborn equipment. His combination of technical excellence, initiative, and a steady, dependable work ethic sets him apart as a truly outstanding young engineer. Boise State is proud to have Lukas Crockett graduate from our ECE program. We’re excited to continue to work with him through his PhD program!
Graduate Student of the Year – Rokaiya Sharmin
Rokaiya (pictured right) was nominated as graduate student of the year for her tenacity and her positive attitude. While earning her degree, Rokaiya has worked as a learning assistant in our introductory freshman course and served as an assistant advisor. We really appreciate her contributions to the department.
Pinnacle Awards for Academic Excellence
Isaac Kreft (pictured below) – Another top performer, Isaac earned a 3.99 GPA while completing the BSEE, a certificate in Semiconductor Device Physics, and a second certificate in Integrated Circuit Design. He is deeply inquisitive, with a sharp analytical mind and a genuine passion for understanding complex engineering concepts. His reliability, curiosity, and thoughtful approach to problem-solving make him a standout contributor in both coursework and research.
Joshua Castronuevo also received a Pinnacle Award for Academic Excellence. He has excelled in his coursework, earning a 3.98 GPA. Joshua is receiving his BSEE along with an integrated circuit design certificate. His instructors say they have been especially impressed with his performance in semiconductor processing and IC design courses.
Pinnacle Awards for Research Excellence
Ty Pfost is being recognized with the Research Excellence Award for his contributions to biomedical research in Dr. Johnson’s lab over the last year. His achievements include modeling and designing a wireless communication link for medical implants that uses the human body as a channel and developing an automated heating system for animal research.
Nolan Olaso (pictured left) is receiving this award for his contributions to research in the Surface Science lab. His supervisor, Paul Davis, says Nolan is an extremely hard worker and creative problem solver who’s already performing at the level of a junior graduate student as an undergraduate.
Pioneer Awards – Recognizing Inaugural Graduates from the Computer Engineering Program
The Pioneer award goes to Gabe Perez and Matthew Roloff, the first two trailblazers to complete the Computer Engineering program! They navigated the ups and downs with style.
Congratulations, Graduates!