Seminar Abstract: Weather and climate disasters are becoming more frequent in the U.S. In 2024, 27 events each caused over
$1 billion in damages. Extreme weather consists of low-probability occurrences with high intensities that often devastate
society, the environment, and the economy. Earthen infrastructure such as coastal dunes, embankments, and levees can be
compromised when their design and construction requirements do not consider the critical conditions they experience. Studies
conducted using field investigations, physical and numerical modeling, and geospatial analysis provide insight into the
effectiveness of instrumentation and remote sensing. Determining the limitations in data is necessary to frame the sustainable
solutions presented.

About the Speaker: Dr. Spears is a Research Assistant Professor at Tennessee State University. Before earning her PhD in Civil
GUEST SPEAKER
Engineering at Jackson State University, Dr. Spears earned her BSE and MSE in Civil Engineering from the University of
Michigan and the University of Texas at Austin, respectively. Following obtaining her master’s, she worked in the civil
engineering consulting industry. She also received her PE license in Civil/Geotechnical Engineering from the state of Michigan.
Dr. Spears’ research focuses on Geotechnical and Geoenvironmental Engineering to understand the impacts of extreme
weather on earthen infrastructure and determine sustainable solutions. She has conducted local, state-wide, and international
research. As a Detroit native and alum of Michigan Engineering's former Summer Engineering Academy pre-collegiate
programs, M-Engin Academy, NSBE, LSAMP, ASCE, Alternative Spring Break – Chicago, Novice Women's Rowing, and former
Mustard Seed Campus Ministry, Dr. Spears takes Michigan's legacy with her wherever she goes.