Sarira Motaref Featured in UConn Magazine for Transformative Approach to Engineering Education

The School of Civil and Environmental Engineering is proud to celebrate Professor in Residence and Director of Innovation and Student Success, Dr. Sarira Motaref, who was recently featured in the Summer 2026 issue of UConn Magazine as part of its "The Instructor" series.

The feature highlights Motaref’s exceptional dedication to teaching, student success, and innovation in engineering education. Since joining UConn in 2011, she has become a cornerstone of the School, earning numerous teaching awards while helping shape educational experiences that make engineering more accessible, engaging, and inclusive for students.

Originally from Iran, Motaref earned degrees in civil engineering and earthquake engineering before moving to the United States in 2006. After completing her Ph.D. in Civil Engineering at the University of Nevada, Reno, she joined UConn, where she has spent the last 15 years supporting undergraduate engineering students and advancing teaching excellence.

The magazine feature showcases Motaref’s student-centered teaching philosophy, emphasizing her belief that learning is built on meaningful relationships and continuous engagement with students.

“I believe from the bottom of my heart that teaching involves a mutual relationship between human beings,” Motaref told UConn Magazine. “I want my students to know they are my highest priority.”

The article also highlights her leadership in engineering education research, particularly her work supporting neurodiverse learners. As part of the NSF-funded INCLUDE project, Motaref has helped redesign engineering courses to provide students with multiple pathways for learning, assessment, and demonstrating mastery of complex concepts. These innovations have improved learning experiences not only for neurodiverse students but for all learners.

In the classroom, Motaref is known for bringing engineering concepts to life through real-world examples, hands-on demonstrations, collaborative problem-solving activities, and personalized student support. Whether explaining beam analysis through everyday observations or helping students navigate challenging coursework during office hours, she consistently seeks new ways to make engineering education meaningful and accessible.

Students interviewed for the feature praised her enthusiasm, accessibility, and commitment to their success. Many noted that her willingness to adapt teaching methods, respond to feedback, and invest time in individual students has had a lasting impact on their academic journeys.

The recognition also reflects Motaref’s broader contributions to the School through her leadership of innovation and student success initiatives. Her efforts continue to strengthen educational opportunities for future engineers while fostering an inclusive and supportive learning environment.

Congratulations to Dr. Motaref on this outstanding recognition.

Read the full UConn Magazine feature here.