2023 Rengao Song Scholarship Recipient Visits Louisville Water

Louisville Water was pleased to host the 2023 Dr. Rengao Song Scholarship winner, Salma M. ElSherif. She is completing her PhD in civil and environmental engineering at Vanderbilt University and will defend her dissertation in February 2025. ElSherif received her bachelor’s degree in civil engineering and her master’s degree in irrigation and hydraulics engineering from Cairo University. She grew up in Giza, Egypt on the same street as the pyramids.

During her recent visit, ElSherif met with Water Quality and Research, Distribution Water Quality, and the hydraulic modelling staff and presented her PhD research in a brief seminar. Her research involved theoretical and actual modeling and monitoring of distribution system water quantity and quality. Louisville Water staff met with ElSherif to discuss what she learned in her studies and how that may assist us in the management of our distribution system.

She said she was honored to receive the 2023 Rengao Song Scholarship for Water Science and Technology. “As a Ph.D. student in the early stages of my journey, with a passion for water resources engineering, this recognition not only filled me with excitement and affirmation for my efforts but also provided significant financial support. This support has been invaluable in easing the financial burdens of pursuing advanced research, allowing me to focus fully on my academic and professional goals.”

ElSherif said, “Visiting Louisville Water Company was an incredible experience, offering a unique opportunity to witness how real-world water systems operate and gain practical insights. From touring the plant, research and testing labs, to discussing design and modeling practices, fieldwork, and consumer interactions, I was impressed by Louisville Water’s comprehensive approach to maintaining high standards.”

She added, “What stood out to me the most was how closely the team collaborates to uphold these standards while actively addressing consumer concerns and resolving issues proactively. A particularly inspiring takeaway was hearing the team speak about Dr. Song’s continuous efforts and leadership—a legacy I deeply admire and aspire to carry forward.”

Our employees enjoyed and benefited from engaging the future Dr. ElSherif. Salma is clearly the kind of person Louisville Water and the KY/TN Section of the American Water Works Association had in mind to support through the Dr. Rengao Song Scholarship. The award is given annually to a full-time student enrolled in a graduate degree program in Kentucky or Tennessee.