The Southeastern section of the American Society for Engineering Education (ASEE) has approved an annual "Anthony (Tony) L. Tilmans Outstanding Conference Paper" Award. Tilmans, former dean of The College of Technology at Southern Polytechnic State University, passed away this summer.

This tribute was created by Thomas Dion, president of the Southeastern region of The American Society for Engineering Education, and initiated at its November meeting. Each year, the section's best conference paper will be officially recognized with the award.

"Tony served as a mentor and role model for younger members, provided guidance and wisdom to the organization's decision makers, and encouraged veteran members to remain active," said Dion. "He was a vital member of the organization and the engineering technology industry. After serving in ASEE for so long, he could have easily gone on cruise control, but he kept his sleeves rolled up and actively participated."

Tilmans was a former vice president of the Southeastern Section of ASEE. In 1997 he served as site coordinator for a Section Annual Meeting held on the SPSU campus, and most recently served as the chair of the organization's Constitution and Bylaws Committee.

"The awarding of the 'Outstanding Conference Paper Award' is a wonderful tribute to Dean Tilmans. He was a remarkable presence on our campus and a leader in his field," said Lisa A. Rossbacher, president of Southern Polytechnic State University.

Southern Polytechnic State University is a residential university with approximately 4,000 students pursuing bachelor's and master's degrees in many of the nation's fastest-growing fields related to engineering and technology. One mile west of I-75's Exit 263, the university is just 20 minutes northwest of downtown Atlanta, GA.