10/08/2026
Alexandria, VA — October 2, 2026 — Washington University of Science and Technology (WUST) received the Outstanding Partner Organization Award from the PMI Washington DC Chapter (PMIWDC) during the organization’s 2026 Annual Conference, held October 2–3, 2026.
The award was formally presented during the PMIWDC Annual Conference Gala on Friday, October 2, at the JW Marriott Reston Station. The beautiful evening brought together business leaders, professionals, students, volunteers, community partners, and fellow honorees to celebrate leadership, innovation, service, and excellence in project management.
For Jose Ortega, Director of Marketing & Recruitment at WUST and award honoree, the recognition reflects the collective efforts of the university and its growing community partnerships. student volunteers, and creating professional opportunities for students.
A highlight of the WUST-PMIWDC partnership was the recent Women's Entrepreneurship event, organized with PMIWDC and the Association of Black Women in Project and Program Management (ABWIPPM) in less than two weeks. Joseph, Vice President of Partnerships at PMIWDC, praised the women’s entrepreneurship event as “phenomenal” and recognized Ortega's continued leadership in strengthening the partnership, engaging WUST student volunteers, and creating professional opportunities for students.
The gala was also a special evening for WUST as student Andressa de Oliveira received the Innovation in Project Management Award for her work as AVP of Web & Digital Experience with PMIWDC.
De Oliveira has volunteered with PMIWDC for two years and shared that the recognition was especially meaningful because volunteering has given her opportunities to grow, learn, contribute, and serve a professional community she values.
Mr. Abubokor Hanip, Chairman & Chancellor of WUST, congratulated de Oliveira on her achievement and highlighted the significance of seeing a WUST student recognized for innovation, leadership, and service alongside accomplished professionals.
Dr. Hasan K. Burk, President of WUST, reflected on the university’s future and its continued focus on academic innovation, industry engagement, community partnerships, and expanding professional opportunities for students.
Dr. Mark Robinson, Dean of the WUST School of Business, also shared his appreciation for Dr. Aridi and WUST leadership for their continued support and collaboration in advancing opportunities for students and strengthening WUST’s community impact.
WUST extends special thanks to Tareka, President of PMIWDC; Joseph, Vice President of Partnerships; the PMIWDC leadership, staff, and volunteers; as well as the fellow award recipients who helped make the conference and gala a memorable experience.
Priya Kothari, Executive Director of the WUST Foundation, shared that the Foundation is working with PMIWDC and ABWIPPM on upskilling initiatives across the DMV area, with the partnership set to empower entrepreneurs worldwide.
About Washington University of Science and Technology
Washington University of Science and Technology, located in Alexandria, Virginia, provides career-focused higher education while developing partnerships that connect students with academic, professional, industry, and community opportunities.
