Two Miami University College of Engineering and Computing alumni are among those listed in Miami’s 18 of the Last 9 Award for 2023-24.

The 18 of the Last 9 Award is based on the popular “30 under 30” model and was designed to honor eighteen alumni who have graduated in the past nine years and are living out the values inherent in a Miami education.

Nora Husani Winnestaffer graduated from Miami CEC in 2016 with a bachelor’s degree in software engineering. While at Miami, Nora was involved in the Lockheed Martin Leadership Institute (now the Lilly Leadership Institute), the Theta Tau Professional Engineering Fraternity, and Kode2Learn, an organization focused on teaching elementary school students how to code.

After graduation, Nora began her professional career at Eli Lilly and Company, leading projects and teams focused on the implementation of technologies within the digital biomarkers, decentralized clinical trials, and product development spaces. Seven years later, she currently works overseas as Associate Director, Research and Development IT at the Lilly Japan affiliate. Learn more about Nora 

Nathan Jones graduated from Miami CEC in 2018 with a bachelor’s degree in computer engineering. Today, he works as a computer engineer at NASA Johnson Space Center in Houston as the lead electronics and software designer for a wireless access point to be flown on NASA's new lunar spacecraft, Gateway. 

Nathan has won multiple awards during his time at NASA, including the NASA Trailblazer award given to early-career employees who come up with innovative solutions to challenging problems the agency faces. Learn more about Nathan

“Nora and Nathan serve as prime examples of the achievements possible for Miami CEC alumni equipped with a strong technical education rooted in the liberal arts,” said Beena Sukumaran Ph.D, Dinesh and Ila Paliwal Dean of Miami's College of Engineering and Computing. “Their creativity and resourcefulness have made a significant and positive contribution to their respective professions, the organizations they are affiliated with, and society as a whole.”

This year’s 18 honorees come from across Miami University in a wide spectrum of academic and professional fields. Visit the Miami University Alumni Association website for the full list of honorees.