Special Project: Keramos Plaques
Because our chapter allows the participation of not only ceramic engineers in the Material Science and Engineering major, but also metal, polymer, electronic material and biomaterial engineers, an activity seemed necessary to promote our ceramic background. After the Fall and Spring initiations, new initiates were required to participate in an initiate project. The students made the Keramos plaque from traditional ceramic materials to be reminded of the basis from which our society was created. Not only did the students learn about the ceramic material, but it also provided a comfortable atmosphere to interact with their fellow initiates and upperclassmen. Many upperclassmen also participated in the plaque making experience because it was a well- needed change from academia.
After the students created their plaques, they were allowed to dry and were fired and glazed. Students were encouraged to help with the firing and glazing process. The plaques were decorated with gold metallic markers at the social events following initiation. The Illinois Chapter had never participated in such an event, and this will hopefully become a tradition for future years. Many students and faculty commented on the success of the project as both an educational and social event.
