ASCE has honored Barbara E. Minsker, Ph.D., P.E., F.EWRI, M.ASCE, with the 2026 Julian Hinds Award for a career that uniquely integrates high-impact research and dedicated leadership in service of water resources engineering, transforming engineering approaches to planning and managing water systems by introducing powerful AI and optimization tools, participatory frameworks, and equity-focused strategies.
Minsker has guided multi-institutional efforts and nurtured future leaders, demonstrating long years of distinguished service to the profession. Her contributions have not only advanced scientific knowledge but also improved engineering practice in tangible ways – from smarter infrastructure design to informed policymaking – fulfilling the true spirit of the award. Her career stands as a model of sustained excellence and transformative impact in the field of water resources planning, development, and management.
Minsker has shown leadership as head of the civil engineering department at Southern Methodist University following her long tenure at the University of Illinois. During her time as head, she actively participated in the ASCE Department Heads Advisory and Coordinating Committee and hosted a civil engineering education summit. In addition to mentoring many Ph.D. students, she has supported the development of early-career faculty through individualized mentorship and broader professional development efforts. In 2010 she authored the book, The Joyful Professor: How to Shift from Surviving Thriving in the Faculty Life and gave workshops at academic conferences and universities nationwide.
The Julian Hinds Award is given to recognize the author or authors of that paper that is judged to make the most meritorious contribution to the field of water resources development. That award may also be made to an individual for notable performance, long years of distinguished service, or specific actions that advanced engineering in the field of planning, development, and management of water resources.
