WSU geology students receive 2005 academic awards

Three outstanding Wayne State University students were recognized for their academic accomplishments and service to the department. The awards were presented by Acting Chair Jim Tucker at a recent meeting of the geology department faculty.

Sarah Trimble received the 2004 Department of Geology Graduate Student Merit Award. Sarah received her M.S. in Geology from Wayne State in May 2003. Sarah's thesis research addressed the distribution of uranium and thorium series radionuclides in the Canada Basin of the Arctic Ocean.

These awards are presented annually to an undergraduate and graduate student with exemplary academic achievement and are commemorated on a recognition plaque in the departmental office.

Jason Jweda received the 2004 Department of Geology Undergraduate Student Merit Award. Jason received his B.S. in Geology from Wayne State in August 2004 and is now enrolled as a graduate student in our department.

Jason and Sarah join a group of exceptional WSU Geology alumni who have proceeded to further distinguish themselves in their academic and professional careers.

Dawn Niedermiller received the Departmental Undergraduate Teaching Award in recognition of her outstanding service as an undergraduate teaching assistant in the geology department. Dawn is a geology and secondary education major, who plans to pursue a career in secondary education with a focus on science education after graduating in December 2004.

Her contributions to the department included service as a laboratory TA and as a supplemental instruction leader for GEL 1010 (Physical Geology). Her performance in both of these roles exemplifies a commitment to a high standard of teaching that will benefit her future students.