What is ASCEND?

Engineering ASCEND is a dynamic program rooted in a 40-year legacy of supporting Engineering students of all backgrounds at NC State. ASCEND builds on a strong foundation of programmatic excellence with renewed purpose: to foster a vibrant, welcoming Engineering environment where students thrive and their unique identities are celebrated.

Our Mission

To advocate for student communities through intentional engagement, meaningful development opportunities, and high-impact experiences that build belonging and success in engineering.

• Community-building initiatives
• Research and global service opportunities
• Leadership and mentorship experiences
• Celebration of student identities 
• Signature networking and career development opportunities
• Support for student organizations
• Academic and professional development

Who We Serve

Undergraduate Students

ASCEND supports all current engineering undergraduates, especially those seeking belonging, community, mentorship, or your support network away from home. Whether you’re looking to lead, serve, explore research and career opportunities, or build your network, ASCEND is for you!

Programs include but not limited to:

• START Mentoring Program
• ASCEND REU (Research Experience for Undergraduates)
• E144/E145 Academic Support Courses
• Emerging Leaders Summit
• Career Confidence & Networking Events
• Rwanda Service Abroad Trip
• “Finally Friday” Community Socials
• Tools Workshop Event 
• Taste of Engineering 

Prospective and Pre-College Students

ASCEND also leads outreach to prospective students through immersive programs that introduce future engineers to the college experience.

Signature Outreach

• Summer Exploration Experience (SEE): A residential bridge program for newly admitted students
• Overnight Stay Weekend: A signature experience for admitted students to get a real feel for campus life
  

Donors and Alumni

Our impact wouldn’t be possible without your support. Whether you’re a past participant, an alum, or a partner who believes in ensuring a strong sense of belonging in Engineering for students of all backgrounds, there’s a place for you in the ASCEND community.

• Support our mission
• Mentor current students
• Attend ASCEND events

Stay connected!

Events and Opportunities

Throughout the year, ASCEND provides a variety of events and opportunities designed to engage, empower, and build a critical belonging community for our students:

• Signature Community Events
  • Finally Friday
  • Taste of Engineering
  • Tools Workshop
• Summer Exploration Experience (See)
• Overnight Stay Weekend
• ASCEND Career Fair
• Emerging Leaders Summit
• Alternative Service Break Trip to Rwanda
• Academic – Year Courses (E144/145) and Workshops

Stay tuned for our full event calendar.

Our Team

Meet the people behind the program here to support our amazing students!
We’re a team of professional advocates, mentors, and educators committed to student belonging and success in Engineering.

Director: Dr. Javon Adams
Program Manager: Ms. Kim Pender
Program Coordinator: Ms. Tia Canada
Postdoctoral Scholar: Dr. Veronica Mbaneme’ 

Faculty and Staff Bios Coming Soon

Legacy and Impact

Engineering ASCEND carries forward decades of history and transformation in support of students. We honor the legacy of the programs that came before us and look to the future with purpose and pride. Community-driven programming that reflects the diversity of our state and nation

• Over 40 years of impact
• Thousands of alumni
• Nationally recognized bridge and research programs
  

Support ASCEND

Want to Make a Difference?

Your support helps us continue to offer life-changing experiences to future engineers from all walks of life.

ASCEND FAQ