Kristin Stein, an undergraduate student in civil and environmental engineering, has been named the 2025 Student of the Year by the American Water Works Association!

Stein was nominated by her colleagues during her time as a water plant intern with the city of Cedar Rapids, where she researched aquifer storage and recovery — a water management technique that the city plans to implement within the next five years. Her research earned her the opportunity to present her findings at a plantwide meeting. 

As part of her internship, Stein also conducted a study aimed at improving chlorine residuals in drinking water across different areas of the city’s water distribution system. She experimented with adjusting the flushing frequency of fire hydrants with low residual levels to enhance water quality. 

“During this internship, I developed a deeper understanding of the need for clean water,” Stein said. “I look forward to continuing work in the water industry and protecting our waters!”