It Started with a Simple Ask

In the summer of 2025, Avas Basnet, a master’s student in Project Management, began his involvement with the 3 Minute Thesis Project Management competition after reaching out to Dr. Elizabeth A. Reger to join ongoing research. He did not expect to be given the opportunity to develop his own research topic.

Over the following weeks, he read widely, explored different directions, and developed ideas. He also spent time refining his understanding of sustainability in project environments and how it connects to real industry challenges. After several discussions, Avas and Dr. Reger selected a timely and meaningful topic. They developed a conceptual framework that integrates sustainability into project management. The framework includes environmental, social, and governance initiatives in each phase of a project. It also applies multi criteria decision making to help determine which initiatives to prioritize when tradeoffs are necessary. This approach connects theory with practical decision making in modern projects.

Three Minutes to Make It Count

As the research developed, Dr. Reger encouraged Avas to enter the 9th Annual 3 Minute Thesis Competition. Students were required to explain months of research in just three minutes to a mixed audience of students and judges. This work later became part of the 3 Minute Thesis Project Management experience, where students present complex research in just three minutes. This format challenged participants to simplify complex ideas while still communicating their core value. With Dr. Reger’s feedback and guidance, Avas refined the presentation, focused the message, and prepared to share the work with confidence. Eighteen students competed this year, each presenting complex research in a short and high-pressure setting.

The Win

Avas received the People’s Choice Award. This was the first time a student from the Project Management department received this award.

It was more than a personal achievement. Avas’ commitment, the strength of the research, and the support of a mentor who believed in him from the beginning all came through in this accomplishment. The moment also underscored the importance of giving students opportunities to explore independent research and communicate their ideas beyond the classroom.

The Marketing Department congratulates Avas Basnet on his achievement and invites you to visit us for more news, updates, and student success stories.