Steve McLaughlin, dean of the College of Engineering, recently received the Omicron Delta Kappa (ODK) G. Wayne Clough Friend of the Student Award at the annual White and Gold Ceremony., The award is given annually to one member of the faculty, staff, or administration at Georgia Tech who has gone "above and beyond the call of the duty" in his or her support of students. The Up With the White and Gold Ceremony is coordinated by two student organizations: the Presidents’ Council Governing Board and the Georgia Tech Ambassadors. In addition, the Office of Student Involvement and the Georgia Tech Alumni Association support this amazing event recognizing the achievements of the campus community. More than 20 organizations and departments present awards to students, faculty, staff, and student organizations recognizing their contributions to campus life, involvement, and leadership.

McLaughlin was named dean of the College in 2017. He joined the School of Electrical and Computer Engineering at Georgia Tech in September 1996.  From 2012-2017 he was the Steve Chaddick School Chair in the School of Electrical and Computer Engineering and from 2007-2012, he was Vice Provost for International Initiatives and Steven A. Denning Chair in Global Engagement. In 2014, he co-founded CREATE-X, a campus-wide effort to instill entrepreneurial confidence in students and help them launch companies. In its first three years the program has successfully launched 72 student-led companies and engaged 1500+ students in the principles and practice of evidence-based entrepreneurship. 

Established in 1930, the Alpha Eta Circle of Omicron Delta Kappa, strives to promote and recognize leadership excellence on the Georgia Tech campus as well as nationally.