The Center for Regional and Rural Connected Communities (CR2C2) proudly recognizes Soheila Saeidi, a Ph.D. student in Transportation Engineering at Florida Atlantic University (FAU) and a Graduate Research Assistant with CR2C2, for receiving the 2026 Helene M. Overly Memorial Graduate Scholarship from WTS South Florida.

The scholarship recognizes outstanding graduate students pursuing careers in transportation and honors the legacy of Helene M. Overly, the first Executive Secretary of WTS International. Established to encourage women to pursue careers in transportation, the scholarship celebrates academic achievement, leadership potential, and dedication to advancing the transportation industry.

Saeidi's research focuses on improving transportation systems in rural communities, with an emphasis on safety, efficiency, and accessibility. Her work addresses important transportation challenges, including freight movement, rural mobility, and the integration of emerging transportation technologies.

This latest recognition adds to Saeidi's growing list of academic and professional accomplishments. In 2025, she received the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) Broward Branch Annual Scholarship and the American Society of Highway Engineers (ASHE) South Florida General Academic Scholarship, reflecting her continued commitment to excellence in transportation engineering.

Through her research and academic achievements, Saeidi continues to contribute to CR2C2's mission of advancing innovative transportation solutions that improve mobility, safety, and connectivity in rural and regional communities.

CR2C2 congratulates Saeidi on this well-deserved recognition and looks forward to her continued contributions to transportation research and innovation.