Tasneem Tariq

Nomination Statement for the A&A Sustainability Graduate Student Award
Nominee: Tasneem Tariq

Tasneem Tariq is an exemplary candidate for the A&A Sustainability Graduate Student Award, embodying the highest standards of academic excellence, leadership, and dedication to sustainability in research, creative activity, and campus initiatives. Her work in sustainable architecture and urban design, particularly in mitigating urban heat island effects, has made significant contributions to the fields of climate resilience and sustainable development.

Tasneem’s academic journey is marked by unparalleled achievements. She graduated with a perfect GPA in her Master of Science in Architecture program at Penn State and currently maintains a 4.00/4.00 CGPA in her Ph.D. studies. Her research focuses on mitigating heat stress in urban environments, addressing critical challenges in both U.S. cities and her home country, Bangladesh. Through her innovative work on blue-green infrastructures and vegetated systems, Tasneem has contributed groundbreaking insights to the fields of sustainable architecture and climate resilience. Her research has been recognized with prestigious awards, including the Pohland Graduate Fellowship (2024) and the Best Paper Award at the 2023 IIT Ph.D. Symposium, and first prize in Penn State’s Graduate Exhibition Award (2023). Her work has been recognized at prestigious conferences, including the Environmental Design Research Association (EDRA) and the Architectural Research Centers Consortium (ARCC). Tasneem’s leadership in workshops, such as “Climate-Context-Culture Based Design” at EDRA 2024, highlights her ability to translate complex research into actionable insights for sustainable design. Tasneem’s professional certifications, including CPHC®, Phius Certified Consultant, and LEED AP®, reflect her commitment to excellence in sustainable design. Her extensive publication record, participation in international conferences, and leadership roles in professional organizations further highlight her influence in the field.

Tasneem is a dedicated mentor and educator. She has been an Assistant Professor in Bangladesh, a teaching assistant at Penn State, a guest lecturer, and a reviewer for sustainability-focused journals and conferences. As a teaching assistant at Penn State, she has received accolades such as the Harold F. Martin Graduate Assistant Outstanding Teaching Award (2022-23) for her ability to inspire and guide students. Her mentorship extends to guiding over 350 undergraduate students during her fourteen years as a faculty member at Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology, where she inspired countless students to pursue careers in sustainable design. Her mentorship extends beyond the classroom, as she actively supports international students through her roles with the Bangladesh Student Association (BSA) and Penn State Global, helping them acclimate to campus life and fostering a sense of belonging.

Beyond research, Tasneem is deeply committed to raising awareness about sustainability through creative endeavors. She has participated in numerous painting and photography exhibitions focused on climate change, and her nomination as a finalist in Penn State’s Three Minute Thesis (3MT) Competition underscores her ability to communicate sustainability issues to a broad audience. Her creative work not only educates but also inspires action toward environmental stewardship. Tasneem was featured in the “We Are Sustainable” series by the Arts & Architecture Sustainability website, where she discussed her vision and perspectives on sustainability, emphasizing the importance of integrating sustainable practices into research and design.

Tasneem’s leadership in sustainability initiatives at Penn State has been transformative. Her role as an At-Large Delegate with the Graduate and Professional Student Association (GPSA) and her contribution to the Climate Action Committee (CAC) demonstrates her commitment to advancing sustainability initiatives on campus. Through CAC, she is contributing to sustainability initiatives on campus by raising climate awareness, promoting sustainable practices, developing policies that advocate environmental responsibility, and organizing several climate-related events through the Sustainability Round Table, GPSA Sustainability Report, Green Webinar Series, and Environmental Education Workshop. As President of the Graduate Research and Innovative Design (GRID) organization, she organized seven impactful events, fostering interdisciplinary dialogue and securing funding to support student research. Her ability to bridge academia, art, and community engagement underscores her holistic approach to sustainability. Tasneem’s efforts to promote climate awareness on campus and advocate for sustainable practices will leave a lasting impact on the Penn State community.

Tasneem Tariq’s unwavering commitment to sustainability, groundbreaking research, and exceptional leadership make her an ideal recipient of the A&A Sustainability Graduate Student Award. Her work advances academic knowledge and drives tangible change, inspiring peers and communities to embrace sustainable practices. Tasneem’s achievements reflect the very essence of this award, and her contributions will undoubtedly continue to shape a more sustainable future.