A highly skilled educator as well as a researcher, Dr. Deksissa believes in investing in and training young people to deal with environmental and social economics.
WASHINGTON, DC, October 21, 2024 /24-7PressRelease/ — Tolessa Deksissa has been inducted into Marquis Who’s Who. As in all Marquis Who’s Who biographical volumes, individuals profiled are selected on the basis of current reference value. Factors such as position, noteworthy accomplishments, visibility, and prominence in a field are all taken into account during the selection process.
Dr. Deksissa is a leading expert in water quality, water quality modeling, water quality testing, and assessing environmental toxicology. He has dedicated over a decade to the University of the District of Columbia, where he serves as the director of the Water Resources Research Institute and as founder and director of the Professional Science Master’s Program in water resource management. Since joining the university community in 2006, he has been instrumental in advancing both its research capabilities and academic offerings.
A highly skilled educator as well as a researcher, Dr. Deksissa believes in investing in and training young people to deal with environmental and social economics. During the academic year, he teaches classes, mentors students, and conducts research while managing grants, while in summer his focus shifts to reporting and laboratory audit for national accreditation. In addition to his other roles at the university, Dr. Deksissa is also the founding and current technical director and quality assurance officer of its NELAP Accredited Lab; he prioritizes being present in the laboratory, ensuring everything is properly calibrated. Prior to these roles, he was a research associate at the university from 2006 to 2012.
Dr. Deksissa’s academic journey began with a master’s degree in environmental science from Ghent University in Belgium, which he completed in 1999. He continued his studies at Ghent University, serving as a research assistant and earning a PhD in 2004. His education laid a strong foundation for his career, enabling him to contribute significantly to his field. In 2024, he furthered his expertise by obtaining certification in Applying the QM Rubric from QM Quality Matters.
Throughout his career, Dr. Deksissa has been recognized for his contributions to research and education. He was honored with the Black Engineer of the Year in Research Leadership Award by US Black Engineer and Information Technology Magazine and has received recognition for his contributions to the University of the District of Columbia as well as the Wave of Excellence Award and Appreciation of Commitment for UDC Causes. Additionally, he earned accolades for his first poster presentation in Belgium during his PhD work.
Dr. Deksissa is an active member of several industry-related organizations, including the National Water Resource Research Institute, American Geophysical Union, American Water Resources Association, University Council on Water Resources, and the Potomac River Basin Drinking Water Source Protection Partnership. His involvement in these organizations underscores his commitment to advancing environmental science and water resource management.
Beyond his professional achievements, Dr. Deksissa is deeply committed to personal growth through helping others. He finds fulfillment in mentoring students and young researchers and adding value to their lives, which has led to significant accomplishments within his laboratory at the University of the District of Columbia. His efforts have helped secure more funding through grants, leading to the establishment of both a PhD program and a master’s program based on his laboratory’s work. His soil and water quality testing service has brought substantial benefits to the region.
Outside of his career, Dr. Deksissa is dedicated to community service through his church and other civic-minded organizations. He enjoys spending time with his three sons and remains committed to expanding laboratory accreditation services while focusing on serving others through research and entrepreneurship. Dr. Deksissa aims to provide advice, mentorship, and training to youth, continuing his lifelong commitment to learning and sharing knowledge. His dedication to both his professional field and community service exemplifies his commitment to making a positive impact on those around him.
About Marquis Who’s Who®:
Since 1899, when A. N. Marquis printed the First Edition of Who’s Who in America®, Marquis Who’s Who® has chronicled the lives of the most accomplished individuals and innovators from every significant field of endeavor, including politics, business, medicine, law, education, art, religion and entertainment. Who’s Who in America® remains an essential biographical source for thousands of researchers, journalists, librarians and executive search firms around the world. The suite of Marquis® publications can be viewed at the official Marquis Who’s Who® website, www.marquiswhoswho.com.
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