Texas Tech University

Texas Tech Graduate Student Awarded the Horn Distinguished Professors Graduate Achievement Award

Lacy Oliver

March 28, 2024

nayeemkashem

Nayeem Hasan Kashem, a graduate student within the Department of Chemical Engineering has been honored with the 2024 Horn Distinguished Professors Graduate Research Award.

Nayeem Hasan Kashem, a graduate student from the Li Lab in the Department of Chemical Engineering in the Edward E. Whitacre College of Engineering at Texas Tech University, is the recipient of the 2024 Horn Distinguished Professors Graduate Research Award. The award was established by Horn Professors to recognize the outstanding research or creative activity performed by graduate students while at Texas Tech.

“Receiving this award is an incredible honor and a significant milestone in my academic journey. This award represents the culmination of years of hard work, dedication, and perseverance in pursuing excellence in research. It serves as validation of my academic and scholarly pursuits, affirming the impact of my contributions within my field of study,” Kashem said. “Receiving this prestigious award is not only a tremendous honor but also a source of profound encouragement and motivation. This recognition inspires me to continue pushing boundaries, exploring new avenues of inquiry, and making meaningful contributions to my field.”

Reflecting on how the award would aid him in achieving his goals at Texas Tech, Kashem highlighted its invaluable support and recognition. 

"The prestige associated with the Horn Distinguished Professors Graduate Achievement Award can open doors to opportunities for collaboration, networking, and furthering my research interests," he noted. "The financial support accompanying this award alleviates some of the financial burdens associated with graduate studies, enabling me to focus more wholeheartedly on my academic and research endeavors."

When asked about the university's tagline, "From Here, It's Possible," Kashem expressed how the award personalized and enhanced its meaning. 

"This tagline resonates deeply with me now more than ever," he remarked. "It epitomizes Texas Tech's commitment to nurturing excellence and empowering students to realize their utmost potential."

Kashem praised Texas Tech's supportive infrastructure, which facilitated his academic pursuits and research endeavors. 

"Receiving this award feels like a natural extension of my dedication and the university's commitment to fostering academic growth and achievement," he said. "It underscores the symbiotic relationship between student dedication and institutional support, reinforcing the belief that with the right environment and resources, students from diverse backgrounds can thrive academically."

In offering advice to students, on their educational journey, Kashem emphasizes, “Follow your passions ardently, confronting challenges with resilience; seek out mentorship and embrace support networks; maintain unwavering focus and persistence in your pursuits; and seize every opportunity that crosses your path. These principles, when woven into the fabric of your educational journey, will propel you toward boundless growth and achievement.” 

As Kashem continues his academic journey, his achievements serve as inspiration for aspiring students navigating their own paths of education and discovery.