Bethany M. Thornton recently graduated Magna Cum Laude from The University of Alabama in Huntsville (UAHuntsville) with a bachelor’s degree in Industrial and Systems Engineering (ISE). She a 2002 graduate of East Limestone High School and the daughter of Tim and Nancy Thornton of Athens.

Thornton was named the ISE Program Outstanding Undergraduate Student for 2008 at UAHuntsville. The award is based on academics and overall achievement, including contributions to the specific program department. Thornton was also nominated for the UAH Co-op of the Year Award.

She is a member of Phi Kappa Phi National Honor Society, Tau Beta Pi Engineering Honor Society, Alpha Pi Mu, Industrial and Systems Engineering Honor Society, and Delta Epsilon Iota Academic Honor Society.

Thornton served as vice president of the UAH student chapter of Institute of Industrial Engineers, vice president of the UAH Engineering Student Council, and vice president of the Society for Manufacturing Engineers.

While at UAHuntsville, Thornton worked for the US Army Aviation and Missile Command — Engineering Directorate as an aide and co-op student.