Steven Woodruff, Visiting Assistant Professor of Engineering - The College

Tell us a little about yourself. Education? Family? Any other “basics” you want to share?

I have studied civil and structural engineering for the past nine years at Tufts University (undergraduate) and the University of Michigan (graduate). My partner and I live in Staunton with our two cats.

Any favorite Lexington/regional spots/activities (or something you are excited about)?

I am excited to try the restaurants in Lexington and explore the hiking trails in the region. So far, I have only hiked north of Staunton, so there is much to discover near W&L.

How do you unwind/have fun?  Any hobbies/ hidden talents?

I unwind by spending time with my partner, exploring new places in the Shenandoah valley. I have also been spending some time writing poetry and drawing lately. I enjoy cooking vegetarian meals, recreating the food I grew up with and exploring new cuisines.

Best advice anyone has ever given you?

The best advice I have ever received was to consider my own personal values when making a decision, along with collecting data. Too often, I have been given contradictory opinions on how I should make a decision. By understanding what "should" means to me, achieved by examining what I value the most, I have found great success.

Anything you are looking forward to in particular at W&L?

I am excited to start teaching engineering at W&L. I want to impress upon my students the importance of diversity, equity, and inclusion in all engineering fields as the key for sustainable and effective design. I want to empower all of my students to achieve their potential, especially members of the LGBTQ+ community who are starting to contribute to engineering openly as themselves.