The Texas A&M University System Board of Regents has named two leaders from the Texas A&M Transportation Institute (TTI) as Regents Fellows for the 2023–2024 fiscal year. Established in 1988, the award recognizes and honors service, extension and research professionals who have provided exemplary professional service to society that has created large and lasting benefits to Texas and beyond.
TTI’s Director of Research Development and Contracts Mary Levien and TTI Senior Research Scientist David Schrank were among the 13 staff members chosen from the A&M System’s agencies to be designated Regents Fellows.
“The Regents Fellow Award is among the highest distinctions within The Texas A&M University System, honoring individuals whose contributions have made a lasting impact,” says TTI Agency Director Greg Winfree. “Mary and David embody the dedication and leadership that drive TTI’s success, inspiring all of us to continually strive for excellence and innovation in transportation research.”
Levien has been instrumental in advancing TTI’s research capabilities. As the first TTI operations employee to receive the prestigious Regents Fellow Award, Levien has led efforts that have significantly expanded TTI’s research portfolio, fostering new opportunities in critical areas of transportation research.
“I’m truly honored and humbled to receive the Regents Fellow Award,” Levien says. “This recognition reflects not only my commitment and passion for research administration but also the incredible support, mentorship and guidance I’ve received from TTI leadership, my mentors, peers and family.”
Schrank, a leader in mobility and congestion research, is known for his work on the Urban Mobility Report, a widely used resource for congestion analysis. His contributions extend beyond research, as he has forged strong partnerships among industry leaders, policymakers and researchers to tackle critical transportation challenges. Within TTI, Schrank’s efforts to foster collaboration—such as starting the annual tailgate cookouts in 2019—have helped cultivate a sense of community among employees.
Reflecting on his career, Schrank shares, “Having worked with so many incredibly talented individuals over the years, I’m deeply humbled by this recognition. To be mentioned alongside these colleagues is a true honor, and I’m deeply grateful for their guidance and support throughout my career.