FGCU student hopes to build a more sustainable future after graduation

LEE COUNTY, Fla. —

When FGCU senior Hannah Mathis started studying civil engineering four years ago, she expected to strengthen her skills in the classroom. What she didn't expect was to strengthen her connection to her community.

"I love seeing the why in things, I love the math and science of it all," Mathis said.

In her sophomore year, Hannah helped launch the campus Society of Women's Engineers.

"I was like, I feel like there could be an opportunity here to build it because I know that there's a community of women engineers that need a place to go to feel welcome," said Hannah.

What started as just a couple of students turned into something much more two years later.

"Seeing 48 women show up to that meeting and then the next meeting 50 women, and the next meeting 60 women, I was like, 'This is crazy,'" said Hannah.

One of the club's biggest projects? Building a home for Habitat for Humanity.

"I feel like we have a long way to go, but I feel like we're making strides towards more sustainable development, that's something I definitely want to do in the future," said Hannah.

As Hannah leaves FGCU to start her next chapter in a field dominated by men, she has this message for those who follow her.

"Don't listen to what the guys say," said Hannah. "If anyone says you cannot do this, why would you do that, or an off-the-shoulder response, don't listen to them."

Hannah is graduating with more than 2,500 students on Sunday.

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