New scholarship established in memory of Professor Ann Sodja

Professor Emeritus Ann Sodja, Ph.D. is remembered for her contributions to molecular biology and physiology, and for teaching countless students to enjoy research and believe in themselves.

Over her 38-year career at Wayne State University, Dr. Sodja led a research lab dedicated to understanding mosquito repellents and mosquito-borne diseases, among other research interests. Beyond the classroom, she is remembered for her deep appreciation of the arts and being a champion of diverse and female students pursuing careers in STEM fields.

Dr. Sodja’s life was one of triumph, science and love. Born in Slovenia during World War II, she fled with her family as a young child, and they made a life for themselves in the United States. Along her prestigious academic journey, which included the University of California at Davis, California Institute of Technology and the Ohio State University, she met her future husband, and fellow professor, John M. Jordan, Ph.D. After his passing, Dr. Sodja created the John M. Jordan Award for Excellence in Research at UCLA to memorialize his love of chemistry, research and creative discovery.

Her brother, John Sodja, has decided to similarly honor his sister by creating the Ann Sodja Memorial Scholarship Fund for undergraduate and graduate students enrolled in the biological sciences program. We invite friends, colleagues and former students to join us in growing this generous gift.

Ways to donate

Make a gift online.

By check

Designate Ann Sodja Memorial Scholarship Fund” in the memo line.

Wayne State University
PO Box 441970 Detroit, MI 48244-1970

Other options

Call Jim Dauer at 313-577-2822 to discuss how to support the Ann Sodja Memorial Scholarship Fund through options such as planned gifts, stocks and IRAqualified charitable distributions.