Ralph Semmel, Ph.D. '92, computer science, has been elected as a member of the National Academy of Engineering (NAE). Election to the NAE is among the highest levels of professional recognition conferred to any engineer.

Semmel, director emeritus of the Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) is recognized for his "leadership in generating innovative and disruptive engineering advancements in defense, national security and space exploration."

Semmel was named a UMBC Outstanding Alumni of the Year in 2011. His career includes influential leadership and technical roles advancing artificial intelligence, database systems, and software engineering.

Members of the NAE Class of 2026 will be formally inducted during the NAE Annual Meeting in the fall.