Garver transportation engineers Nathan and Natalie Becknell understand what it means to give back and are making it a priority to mentor young engineers.
The University of Arkansas's newest edition of The Volunteer View features the alumni Becknells. The publication highlights ways Nathan and Natalie are balancing their work at Garver with life responsibilities and volunteer opportunities.
"As alumni, we learned quickly that you don't have to endow a scholarship to make a difference," Natalie told The Volunteer View. "We make it a priority each year to give back, and we do what we can."
The Becknells contribute money to engineering scholarships, serve as student advisers, and regularly visit the university to offer students advice and encouragement.
"We give reassurance," Nathan said. "The students who are doing the best academically often doubt themselves the most. We give advice that will help them with current classes and projects and also prepare them for the real world."
The Becknells' real world activities also include taking part in the Illinois River Watershed Project by planting trees and cleaning streams, participating in the Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure, and staying active in the University of Arkansas's concrete canoe contest.
