MEMBER NEWS Myra Blanco named SAE's 2021 Contributor of the Year Twenty others joined the Virginia Tech Transportation Institute engineer at a recent event for recognition of their outstanding volunteer service to SAE International. Dr. Myra Blanco's positive impact on the mobility industry goes way beyond her day job as Director of Advancement, Partnerships & Outreach at Virginia Tech Transportation Institute (VTTI). So much so that she recently was named SAE's 2021 Contributor of the Year. " This year's class of contributors is a testament to the tremendous work our members do, and we are honored to recognize the contributions they have made to not only SAE, but the mobility industry as a whole, " said SAE vice president Chris Ciuca. " Dr. Blanco is a perfect example of that, and we are proud to present her with this award. " 8 January 2022 SAE 2021 Contributor of the Year Award winner Myra Blanco stand s with her trophy alongside SAE Vice President of Programs Chris Ciuca (left) and SAE corporate development and engagement officer specialist Joy Lancaster. Award background Every year since 2019, those on SAE's membership staff team surveys the entire SAE staff to find out from them who is doing the most effective volunteer work across the organization. From the 40 or so individuals nominated by the larger staff for the Contributor of the Year Award, the membership team selects about 25 finalists. From that elite group, the team selects the single individual they believe best exemplify SAE volunteership. It's always a tough call selecting a single individual for the award, and 2021 was no different. But Blanco was a solid choice. More on her later. UPDATE