Chemical Engineer Reflects on Perspective, Perseverance as Undergraduate Commencement Speaker

Jane McCann
McCann

For chemical engineering senior Jane McCann, becoming an engineer was a way to unite her interests in chemistry and physics and apply them to real-world problems. This June, she will speak on behalf of the Class of 2025 at Drexel Engineering’s undergraduate commencement, offering reflections shaped by both academic achievement and personal determination.

Originally from Avondale, Pennsylvania, McCann chose Drexel for its academic rigor, urban setting, and hands-on co-op program. Her time at the university was marked by a demanding schedule, including long daily commutes and part-time work during academic terms. Despite the challenges, she maintained a spot on the Dean’s List every quarter. “That’s one of the accomplishments I’m most proud of,” she said.

McCann immersed herself in experiential learning opportunities. In the Science of Brewing course, she helped develop a tea-infused beer, gaining insight into the chemical engineering principles behind each stage of the brewing process. Her senior design project focused on creating a lightweight material capable of removing urea from the bloodstream for use in a wearable artificial kidney. The project utilized MXene nanoparticles — originally discovered at Drexel — and involved chemically modifying them for biomedical application. “It was exciting to work on something that could one day have a real impact in healthcare,” she said.

Through co-op, McCann not only strengthened her technical skills but also discovered the importance of clear communication in engineering. “It doesn’t matter how good your ideas are if you can’t communicate them to others,” she noted. She’ll carry that lesson with her to Chemours, where she has accepted a full-time role as a process engineer in the Advanced Performance Materials division.

McCann also found meaning in the shared experiences of her peers. In the final weeks leading up to senior design presentations, she recalls the senior design lounge as a place of collaboration and support. “Everyone was working on different projects, but there was a sense of camaraderie,” she said. “People shared ideas, troubleshooting tips, and encouragement. It felt like the culmination of everything we had worked toward.”

Looking ahead, McCann is eager to step into her career and contribute to solving the world’s most pressing challenges. “Engineers are problem solvers,” she said. “I’m excited to be a part of that and to bring my creativity and values to each challenge I encounter.”


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