As a student, from the small country of Burundi in East Africa, Chris Nigarura choose IUPUC to study engineering. On April 12, Chris received the Faurecia Outstanding Student in Mechanical Engineering Award at Indiana University-Purdue University Columbus for time-period during the 2016-17 academic year.

The award was presented by Dr. Tom Lawrence representing the Division of Mechanical Engineering; Crystal Bowling of Faurecia, and vice chancellor and dean at IUPUC, Dr. Reinhold Hill.

Chris began his coursework in 2014 and is currently a junior in the mechanical engineering program at IUPUC.  He has maintained a solid GPA in a challenging engineering program all while staying on track to graduate in four years.

Last year, Chris served IUPUC with his exemplary work ethic as an Orientation Leader. In this position, he was a welcoming ambassador for the engineering program and always interacted with students in a professional, yet caring manner.

Throughout his time as a student and his work as an orientation leader, Chris has established himself as a friendly, welcoming, and professional presence in the engineering program and has represented the campus
and his major in a tremendous way."