SANTO DOMINGO.-On the occasion of National Engineer's Day, the Faculty of Engineering and Architecture (FIA) of the Autonomous University of Santo Domingo (UASD) recognized Eng. Leonardo Reyes Madera, general director of the National Office of Seismic Evaluation and Vulnerability of Infrastructure and Buildings (Onesvie), for his outstanding professional career and his valuable contributions to the development of earthquake-resistant engineering in the Dominican Republic.
The recognition ceremony, led by the Dean of the FIA, Eng. Omar Segura, brought together academic authorities, professionals from the sector, students and representatives of engineering guilds, who highlighted the dedication and commitment of Eng. Reyes Madera to the training of new generations and the implementation of policies and programs that strengthen the structural safety of buildings and essential infrastructure in the country.
During the ceremony, UASD emphasized that the tribute recognizes its leadership in consolidating technical standards of excellence, as well as its decisive contribution to preventing and reducing seismic vulnerability, ensuring safer and more resilient infrastructure.
In his acceptance speech, the director of Onesvie expressed his deep gratitude for the distinction, while reaffirming his commitment to ethical and responsible engineering aligned with sustainable development and disaster resilience.
He also highlighted the importance of Onesvie's work in evaluating and strengthening the structural safety of public and private buildings, as well as promoting a preventive culture that guarantees the safety of people and the protection of national heritage.
In addition to the director of Onesvie, UASD recognized the career and contributions of outstanding engineering and architecture professionals, including: Eng. Amparo Céspedes (CIV), Eng. José Orlando Muñoz (AGM), Eng. Maldane Cuello (ARQ), Arch. Zulay Morales, Eng. Manuel Segura, Eng. Fabián Tello, Eng. Fabien Mariñez and Dr. Lidibert González.
Special awards were also given to professors Freddy Pérez, Leonardo Reyes Madera and Héctor O'Reilly, in recognition of their impact on the teaching and professional practice of engineering in the Dominican Republic.
This recognition adds to the one received in July 2024 from the Dominican College of Engineers, Architects and Surveyors (CODIA), which highlighted the career of Eng. Reyes Madera as an outstanding member of CODIA in 1989, reaffirming his legacy in strengthening Dominican engineering.
