Dr. Dov Leshchinsky, professor of civil engineering at the University of Delaware, is the 2010 recipient of the Martin S. Kapp Foundation Engineering Award.
The official presentation was made during the Hero and Awards Luncheon at the conclusion of the American Society of Civil Engineer’s 2010 geocongress in West Palm Beach, Fla., Feb. 24.
The Martin S. Kapp Foundation Engineering Award is a memorial in recognition of his outstanding professional accomplishments. The award, established in 1973, is supported by the income from a fund contributed by the friends and professional associates of Kapp.
ASCE’s website describes the Kapp Award as a recognition given to an individual on the basis of the best example of innovative or outstanding design or construction of foundations, earthworks, retaining structures, or underground construction. Emphasis is placed on constructed works where serious difficulties were overcome or where substantial economies were achieved.
Leshchinsky, a long-time contributor to Geosynthetics magazine, has been a tireless proponent regarding the design and use of geosynthetic-reinforced soil. He has traveled the world teaching educators and practitioners on the subject.
“Continuing education is the most efficient way to disseminate information to practicing engineers responsibly and rigorously,” he said in a 2009 interview.
In addition to teaching, Leshchinsky is frequently called as an expert witness. In 2005, he spent nearly three days in the Supreme Court in New South Wales, Australia, on a case concerning failure of the infamous “third runway” at the Sydney Airport. The judge accepted Leshchinsky’s opinion, and an appeal by the plaintiff was dismissed in October 2008.
“To me, this type of case underscores the importance of continuing education,” he said. “Proper design and installation are essential for geosynthetic structures to perform effectively.”