2023

Program for April 15, 2023

Welcome

Kathleen A. Marrs, Ph.D.
Professor, Biology

Remarks from the Dean

John F. DiTusa, Ph.D.
Dean, School of Science
Professor, Physics

School Awards

John F. DiTusa, Ph.D.
Dean, School of Science
Professor, Physics

Kathleen A. Marrs, Ph.D.
Professor, Biology

Department/Program Awards

Presented by the Department Chair, Program Director or Representative

Biology
Theodore R. Cummins, Ph.D., Chair

Chemistry and Chemical Biology
Partha Basu, Ph.D., Chair

Computer and Information Science
Shiaofen Fang, Ph.D., Chair

Earth Sciences
Kathy J. Licht, Ph.D., Chair

Forensic and Investigative Sciences
Christine J. Picard, Ph.D., Director

Mathematical Sciences
Jeffrey X. Watt, Ph.D., Chair

Neuroscience
Teri Belecky-Adams, Ph.D., Director

Physics
Horia I. Petrache, Ph.D., Department Representative

Psychology
Stephen L. Boehm, Ph.D., Chair

Closing Remarks

Kathleen A. Marrs, Ph.D.
Professor, Biology

School Awards

Trustees' Teaching Award

The Trustees’ Teaching Award honors individuals who have a positive impact on learning through the direct instruction of students, especially undergraduates. Award recipients must have demonstrated a sustained level of teaching excellence and must have completed at least three years of service at IUPUI or IUPUC to be eligible.

Forrest M. R. Brem
Biology

James A. Marrs
Biology

Roland K. W. Roeder
Mathematical Sciences

Ryann E. Workman
Mathematical Sciences

Jiang Zheng
Computer and Information Science

Research Award for Tenure-Track Faculty

This award is in recognition of outstanding contributions in the area of research by a tenure-track faculty member.

Sébastien Laulhé
Chemistry and Chemical Biology

Research Award for Tenured Faculty

This award is in recognition of outstanding contributions in the area of research by a tenured faculty member.

Broxton W. Bird
Earth Sciences

Service Award

This award is in recognition of outstanding contributions in the area of service by a full-time faculty member.

Rodrigo A. Pérez 
Mathematical Sciences

Full-Time Lecturer Service Award

This award is in recognition of outstanding contributions in the area of service by a full-time lecturer.

Brenda Blacklock
Chemistry and Chemical Biology

Associate Faculty Award

This award is in recognition of outstanding contributions in the area of teaching by an associate faculty member.

Veronica Garcia
Biology

Academic Advising Award

This award is in recognition of outstanding contributions in the area of academic advising by a full-time faculty or professional staff member.

Virginia Ranly
Mathematical Sciences

Partners in Education Full-Time Staff Award

The Partners in Education Full-Time Staff Award recognizes staff who make significant contributions in support of their department and the mission of our School. This award acknowledges an individual whose performance is notable among his or her peers and who demonstrates exemplary service.

Jane E. Alexander
Science

Cindy Ritchie
Mathematical Sciences

Teaching Assistant Award

This award honors a teaching assistant for outstanding teaching, for demonstrating superior ability to impart knowledge to students, and for stimulating students' desire to master these topics.

Andrew M. Davis
Mathematics

School of Science Innovative Educator Award

This award honors a faculty or staff member who has had a substantial impact on the formal or informal education of students in the School, through an outstanding record of innovation and creativity in or out of the classroom and laboratory setting.

Gregory K. Druschel
Earth Sciences

Malik-Evenbeck-Baker Advocacy and Opportunities Award

Established by Keith and Sally Anliker, this award honors a faculty or staff member who has had a substantial impact on the professional development and career trajectory of a faculty or staff member in the School.

Pierre-André Jacinthe
Earth Sciences

Herron-Bodner-Boschmann Award for Scholarly Work in Science Education

This award honors a faculty member who has engaged in and published or presented their scholarly work in Science Education. This work, including educational research, development of new teaching approaches and technologies, and investigations or implementations of high-impact educational practices, has positively impacted the School of Science.

Andrew D. Gavrin
Physics

Chancellor's Scholar

This award is granted on behalf of Interim Chancellor Andrew Klein. It recognizes outstanding performance by students who have achieved the highest cumulative grade point average as determined by their School. Each year this distinguished award is only conferred upon twenty-two students campus-wide. Below is the 2023 recipient for the School of Science.

Croix M. Gyurek
Computer Science and Mathematics

Chancellor's Undergraduate Research Award Nominees

This award is a campus-wide honor given to an IUPUI graduating senior for excellence in independent research who demonstrates a commitment and a desire to explore more deeply the rich knowledge in his or her chosen discipline. The School of Science nominated the following students who demonstrate this excellence.

Aditi Ravikumar
Biology and Neuroscience

Seth D. Weir
Neuroscience

Scholarship Recipients

Hawryluk Family Scholarship

The Hawryluk Family Scholarship was established by dedicated School of Science alumnus and entrepreneur P. Kent Hawryluk. This scholarship supports academically strong students from Indiana who are pursuing their first undergraduate degree with a major in the School of Science.

Riley Abell
Chemistry

Killian Armstrong
Geology

Andrew B. Hudnut
Geology

Annie K. Sichting
Psychology

Desco E. McKay and Jeffrey X. Watt STEM Scholarship

The Desco E. McKay and Jeffrey X. Watt STEM Scholarship is awarded to an undergraduate student majoring in physical sciences, secondary math education, secondary science education, or any STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) field.

Jordan E. Fryman
Mathematics

Varma-Nelson Scholarship

Dr. Pratibha Varma-Nelson and Dr. John Nelson established this scholarship to recognize outstanding undergraduate students in the School of Science. Students must be peer-leaders in the Peer-Led Team Learning (PLTL) program and have a strong academic background.

Oliver Harrigan
Biology

Mckenna Straw
Biology

McBride Family Equity Scholarship

The McBride Family Equity Scholarship was established by Bill and Karen Christensen, friends of the School of Science, IUPUI, and Indiana University. This scholarship supports full-time undergraduate students in the School of Science who are pursuing a major in a STEM discipline.

Ransome M. Adeyeye
Neuroscience

BioStorage Technologies RISE Scholarship

The BioStorage Technologies RISE Scholarship supports undergraduate students with a declared major in the School of Science who have an interest in a life sciences-related career, as demonstrated by major or intended career path. This scholarship will support a Research, International, Service Learning, or Experiential Learning (RISE) experience.

Melanie M. Martindale
Biology

Indumati Sukhatme RISE Scholarship

Established by former IUPUI Executive Vice Chancellor and Dean of the Faculties, Dr. Uday Sukhatme, the Indumati Sukhatme RISE Scholarship memorializes his mother, Indumati. This scholarship honors her life and inspires others to contribute to new RISE Scholarships, which emphasize the importance of supporting Research, International, Service Learning and Experiential Learning (RISE) experiences for students.

Jennah M. Jones
Biology and Neuroscience

Minette E. Lambert
Psychology

William H. and Elizabeth M. Reid RISE Scholarship

Established by Dr. Bart Ng, Dean Emeritus and Professor at the School of Science at IUPUI, this scholarship honors his mentor, Dr. William H. Reid, and his wife, Elizabeth M. Reid. This RISE scholarship honors the Reid’s legacy and supports outstanding undergraduate students from the School of Science who participate in an international experience.

Angie Lane
Biology and Global & International Studies

W. Michael and Susan L. Wells RISE Scholarship

Established by dedicated friends of the School, the W. Michael and Susan L. Wells RISE Scholarship supports students with a major in the School of Science who have an interest in a life sciences career and have integrated one of the four IUPUI RISE initiatives into their studies.

Tessa C. Eller
Biology

John D. Barnwell Memorial Scholarship

The John D. Barnwell Scholarship was established by Dean Emeritus Dr. David L. Stocum as a tribute to his friend and student, Dr. John D. Barnwell who was a scientist, writer, and musician. The award is given to a student in the School of Science who has effectively integrated the arts and sciences into their degree program.

Michael P. Cronin
Mathematics and Physics

Frank G. and Ernestine M. Lambertus Scholarship

This scholarship was established by Mrs. Ernestine Lambertus in honor of her husband, Frank, who was a valued advisor to the Dean of the School of Science. Through their generosity, the Lambertus family has supported many science students in the school over the past three decades. This scholarship is awarded to a student who has shown progress and improvement in their academic program.

Angie Lane
Biology and Global & International Studies

Aaron G. Pitchford
Geology

Maddie Whalen
Mathematics

Science and Mathematics Future Teacher Scholarship

The Science and Mathematics Future Teacher Scholarship is awarded to an undergraduate science or mathematics education major who demonstrates a record of academic excellence and a commitment to the vocation of K-12 science or mathematics teaching.

Rachel L. Hammonds
Biology Teaching

Mikki Jeschke Peer Mentoring Scholarship

This award is given in memory of Psychology Advisor Mikki Jeschke whose vision, creativity, and hard work shaped and molded the Peer Advising Office as we know it today.

Elaine A. Hilton
Biology

School of Science Alumni Association Academic Achievement Scholarship

The School of Science Alumni Association Academic Achievement Scholarship is awarded to a continuing undergraduate science major who has demonstrated exceptional leadership and service to the School.

Jesus Garcia
Psychology

Abigail E. Walton
Biology

Class of '84 Scholarship

Established by dedicated School of Science alumnus, Stephen A. Freeland, this award recognizes an exceptional undergraduate student in the School of Science Honors Program.

Jill Gonsalves
Psychology

The Indianapolis Project SEED Scholarship

This scholarship was established by Dr. Rosanne Bonjouklian, a valued friend to the School and an active supporter of the Project SEED Summer Research Program for high school students. The scholarship supports former Project SEED participants that attend IUPUI and pursue a degree in the School of Science with a major in artificial intelligence, biology, chemistry, computer science, environmental science, forensic and investigative sciences, geology, interdisciplinary studies, mathematics, neuroscience, physics and/or psychology. Consideration may be given to students pursuing degrees in engineering, technology, nursing, or public health.

Julianna R. Jera
Environmental Science

William and Donola Orr Scholarship

The William and Donola Orr Scholarship supports students with a major in the School of Science.

Abukar O. Djama
Computer Science

Fatima Hassuneh Undergraduate Research Memorial Scholarship

Fatima Hassuneh was a beloved daughter, sister, and friend with a passion and enthusiasm for science. This scholarship was established to honor her life and continue her legacy of generosity, service, academic achievement, and curiosity. This scholarship is given to students who are pursuing their first undergraduate degree in the School of Science and are actively engaged in undergraduate research.

Tessa C. Eller
Biology

W. Michael and Susan L. Wells Women in Science Scholarship

The W. Michael and Susan L. Wells Women in Science Scholarship was established by W. Michael and Susan Wells, friends of the School of Science, IUPUI, and Indiana University. This scholarship supports full-time undergraduate students in the School of Science who are academically strong and have a declared major in which women are underrepresented in the school.

Faith R. Bittner
Chemistry and Forensic & Investigative Sciences

Catherine L. Blystone
Environmental Science

Natasha Truett
Environmental Science

Viktoria K. Wozniewski
Mathematics

Women in Science Scholars

This award honors outstanding female science students, providing academic and professional development activities designed to enhance educational success, research learning experiences, mentoring, and service learning and community-based activities.

Ikshaa Almera
Psychology and Political Science

Shelby D. Alexander
Biology and Forensic & Investigative Sciences

Bomi Anifowose
Biology

Makayla R. Barger
Biology

Alyssa Blaszynski
Biology

Kayla N. Borowski
Biology and Forensic & Investigative Sciences

Alexa C. Calonia
Neuroscience

Janet Chen
Biology

Janaki C. Dave
Neuroscience

Ava Fisher
Chemistry

Katie C. Gaddis
Psychology

Jenna D. Guzman
Neuroscience

Kylie A. Guzzo
General Studies

Precious A. Harvey
Psychology

Bella A. Hocking
Forensic & Investigative Sciences and Psychology

Sophia C. Koesterer
Psychology

Medha Vijay Kulkarni
Computer Science

Katherine M. Lay
Psychology

Sarah E. Morrison
Psychology

Lydia J. Peterson
Biology

Gabby A. Puryear-Lynch
Psychology and History

Ines M. Rivera
Psychology and Media Arts & Science

Gillian I. Rockwell
Environmental Science

Gina N. Romines
Psychology

Chloe A. Smail
Biology and Forensic & Investigative Sciences

Cynthia A. Van Eaton
Chemistry and Forensic & Investigative Sciences

Priscilla A. Zavala
Computer Science

Sophia L. Zavala
Biology

Alexis Zieminski
Biology, Chemistry, and Forensic & Investigative Sciences

Biology Awards

Outstanding Academic Achievement Award

Bachelor of Arts

Vanessa Villalobos
Biology

Bachelor of Science

Logan M. Boyer
Biology

Ronald E. Kirk Award

Established in memory of biology professor Dr. Ronald E. Kirk, this scholarship is awarded to the top student in freshman biology.

Lina Houran
Clinical Lab Science

Lara A. McGlothlin
Biology

Itzel C. Sotamba
Exercise Science

N. Douglas Lees Scholarship

For more than 45 years, Dr. Lees served the Department of Biology, School of Science, and IUPUI. Established in 2019 upon his retirement, this scholarship is awarded to a student majoring in biology who is in good academic standing.

Jada E. White
Biology

Richard O. McCracken Memorial Scholarship

Dr. Richard O. McCracken was a biology professor whose passion for research and teaching was reflected upon those with whom he had contact. In his honor, family and friends established this scholarship, which is awarded to an outstanding sophomore or junior biology major.

Gavin P. Kinsella
Biology

Robert W. Tuveson Memorial Scholarship

Established by Mary Ellen Tuveson and Dr. David L. Stocum, this scholarship is awarded to a student majoring in the biological sciences, with strong academic performance and future promise.

Robiel Fisshaye
Biology

Ashley T. Remy
Biology and Spanish

Joseph Russo Memorial Scholarship

Established in memory of biology professor Dr. Joseph Russo, this scholarship is awarded to a student majoring in biology.

Simi Kaur
Biology

Tah-Tah Self Achievement Award

Tahnesia “Tah-Tah” Towner was a strong, independent woman who studied biology in pursuit of her dream to be a pediatrician. Upon her passing, friends and family chose to keep Tah-Tah’s spirit alive by establishing this award, which is made to an African-American female who is pursuing a medical career.

Ashley T. Remy
Biology and Spanish

Outstanding Research Award

Baccalaureate

Aditi Ravikumar
Biology and Neuroscience

Master

Kourtney Sloan
Biology

Doctorate

Laura E. Hawley
Biology

Elizabeth Steele Creveling Memorial Scholarship

In memory of his wife, Dr. Howard F. Creveling Jr. established this scholarship for an outstanding master’s or doctoral student in biology.

Priyadharshini Manikandan
Biology

Chemistry and Chemical Biology Awards

Patricia A. Boaz Awards

Dr. Patricia A. Boaz’s passion was her students’ success. Named in her memory, this award is made to the graduating senior with the highest academic achievement in the Bachelor of Arts chemistry program.

Cynthia A. Van Eaton
Chemistry and Forensic & Investigative Sciences

Loren T. Jones Award

A former Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology chair, Dr. Loren T. Jones, is honored each year with this award. The recipient is a graduating senior with the highest academic achievement in the Bachelor of Science chemistry program.

Arledan M. Hinkle
Chemistry

Frank J. Welcher Award

Dr. Frank J. Welcher served the Department of Chemistry as its chair before IUPUI was officially established. The award was established in Dr. Welcher’s honor by his wife, Helen Beasley Welcher, and is given to a graduating senior with the most outstanding professional promise.

Kate Hostetler
Chemistry

American Institute of Chemists Student Research and Recognition Award

Awarded to an outstanding senior majoring in chemistry or biochemistry.

Cole Stenftenagel
Chemistry

Distributed Drug Discovery Award for Excellence in Organic Chemistry

Awarded to students who have shown outstanding academic performance in organic chemistry within the classroom and laboratory, mental attitude, and work ethic.

Ryan Davis
Neuroscience

Theodore W. Cutshall Scholarship

This scholarship was established by Patricia Cutshall and family to honor her husband, Dr. Theodore W. Cutshall. The scholarship is awarded to an undergraduate student majoring in chemistry in the School of Science who has completed and excelled in their organic chemistry research.

Annika R. Bleeke
Chemistry

James R. McCarthy Memorial Scholarship

This scholarship was established by the family of Dr. James R. McCarthy to honor his legacy and lifelong commitment to philanthropy, K-12 education, and higher education. The scholarship supports a promising undergraduate chemistry student who is pursuing a degree in the School of Science.

Riya G. Bhula
Chemistry

la Blae
Chemistry

Bonner-Ferguson-Kelley Scholarship

This scholarship is awarded to a student worker who has been engaged for at least two terms as a storeroom assistant, recitation instructor, or laboratory teaching assistant in the Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology. The awardee will have demonstrated an outstanding work ethic and have been an effective contributor to the department’s educational mission.

Anthony J. Ball
Biology

Outstanding Undergraduate Analytical Chemistry Student

This award recognizes the outstanding undergraduate student in Analytical Chemistry.

Ashlyn N. Dollar
Chemistry

Undergraduate Summer Chemistry Research Scholarship

This scholarship will support one dedicated sophomore or junior chemistry major who is conducting research in the Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology. The recipient will have significant research experience at IUPUI. The recipient’s mentor must be a full-time faculty member in the Department.

Angel Portillo
Chemistry and Biology

Scott Alan Kent Memorial Scholarship

Mr. and Mrs. Eugene Kent established this scholarship in memory of their son, Scott Alan Kent, who graduated from IUPUI with a degree in chemistry. This scholarship is awarded to a promising sophomore or junior chemistry major.

Riya G. Bhula
Chemistry

Loren T. Jones Memorial Scholarship

In memory of Loren T. Jones, this award provides a summer research stipend to a continuing undergraduate student.

Jujhar Singh
Chemistry and Biology

CRC Freshman Chemistry Achievement Award

The CRC award recognizes the outstanding student in the freshmen chemistry courses.

Chanakarn Mongkonpruthangkoon
Chemistry

Rich-Keller Elementary Chemistry Scholarship

Established by Dr. Erwin “Erv” Boschmann, this scholarship is awarded to a student who excels in the elementary chemistry lecture and laboratory courses (CHEM-C101 and CHEM-C121), and honors Dr. Ronald L. Rich and Dr. Raymond N. Keller, both of whom mentored the scholarship donor.

Roseline M. Odepona
Respiratory Therapy

Kelsey Stabler
Cytotechnology

Graduate Chemistry Research Scholarship

This scholarship supports one continuing doctoral student who is conducting research in the Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology. The recipient’s mentor must be a full-time faculty member in the Department.

Sarah R. Langlais
Chemistry

Chemistry and Chemical Biology Graduate Dissertation Scholar

This award is given to an outstanding graduate student during the final year of their dissertation research.

Carolina Vega
Chemistry

Graduate Student Leadership and Service Award

This award is given to a third or fourth year graduate student for extraordinary service and/or leadership to departmental activities and the profession. The recipient goes above and beyond the normal responsibilities as a graduate student.

Krishnakumar Sachidanandan
Chemistry

Computer and Information Science Awards

Gersting Award for an Outstanding Undergraduate Student

During their tenures at IUPUI, Drs. John and Judy Gersting have dedicated much of their time to students. In gratitude for the Gerstings’ devotion to teaching, a number of their students, now computer science alumni, established this annual award (and the one following) in their honor. It is made to a graduating senior for exceptional work in the baccalaureate program.

Areeba Hasan
Computer Science

Gersting Award for an Outstanding Graduate Student

This award is made to a graduating student in the master’s or doctoral program who has attained academic excellence and who is dedicated to the profession.

Jonathan E. Keesling
Computer Science

Gloria and Andrew Olson Undergraduate Service Award

Dr. Andrew Olson, Professor Emeritus in the Computer and Information Science Department, has been a strong proponent of service activities for undergraduate students. In his and his wife’s honor, this award recognizes an outstanding undergraduate student who has significantly contributed to all aspects of the service mission of the department.

Edwin A. Sanchez
Computer Science

Outstanding Woman in Computer Science Award

This award is given to a female computer science major that has shown outstanding promise in the Computer and Information Science program.

Nicole T. Cremasco
Computer Science

Promising Freshman Award

This award is given to a freshman who has shown outstanding promise in the Computer and Information Science program.

Nikhil Dhoka
Computer Science

Teaching Assistant Award

This award is made to a graduate teaching assistant who has demonstrated excellence in performance over the course of two consecutive semesters.

Agnideven Palanisamy Sundar
Computer Science

Blake A. Troutman
Computer Science

Earth Sciences Awards

Earth Sciences Alumni Scholarship

Established and supported by many IUPUI earth sciences alumni, this scholarship is awarded to a student in the Department of Earth Sciences.

Andrew B. Hudnut
Geology

Joshua C. Pine
Environmental Science and Geography

Indiana Geology and Gem Scholarship

This scholarship is given to an environmental science or geology major at IUPUI to further the student’s undergraduate degree program.

Abe Underhill
Geology

Women in Geology (CACC Geology) Scholarship

This scholarship recognizes an outstanding female geology student who has studied volcanology or petrology.

Rachel L. Edmonds
Geology

Drs. Arthur and Patricia Mirsky Undergraduate Scholarship

Drs. Arthur and Patricia S. Mirsky established this fellowship to support Earth Sciences students at IUPUI. This scholarship is a tribute to the more than 50 years the couple spent in education – he as the founder and former Chair of the IUPUI Department of Geology, now Earth Sciences, and she as the Director of Special Education and school psychologist in the Speedway school system.

Brandon J. Biagini
Environmental Science

Carissa J. Cullen
Geology and Geography

Nicole M. Shields
Geology

Forensic and Investigative Sciences Awards

Jay A. Siegel Award

This award is given to the top student in FIS 20500 Concepts of Forensic Science I in honor of Dr. Jay A. Siegel, Founding Director of the IUPUI Forensic and Investigative Sciences Program.

Sydney E. Lyon
Forensic & Investigative Sciences and Chemistry

Outstanding Research Award

This award is given to an outstanding student who has demonstrated excellence in research with commitment and desire to advance the field of forensic science.

Alexis Zieminski
Forensic & Investigative Sciences and Biology and Chemistry

Academic Achievement Award

This award is given for outstanding academic achievement, including high GPA and challenging course enrollment.

Cynthia A. Van Eaton
Forensic & Investigative Sciences and Chemistry

Student Leadership Award

This award is presented to a student who has demonstrated leadership and service in the Forensic and Investigative Sciences (FIS) Program and/or the Forensic Science Club.

Natalie N. Holmes
Forensic & Investigative Sciences

Charles (Chuck) Gould Memorial Scholarship

This scholarship is named for Charles (Chuck) Gould, who was a Forensic and Investigative Sciences graduate student and an analyst with the Indianapolis Marion County Forensic Services Agency (IMCFSA). Established by his family in his memory, this scholarship supports a graduate student pursuing a degree in the Forensic and Investigative Sciences Program.

Sarah Prunty
Forensic & Investigative Sciences

Mathematical Sciences Awards

Yuri Abramovich Memorial Scholarship

Established by the family and friends of Dr. Yuri Abramovich, this scholarship commemorates Dr. Abramovich’s legacy as a colleague, mathematician and educator. This scholarship supports students who have a keen interest in the study of mathematics, who demonstrate academic excellence, especially in mathematics courses beyond the sophomore level, and who show promise for a career in mathematics.

Undergraduate

Nora K. Boland
Mathematics

Meiyi He
Mathematics

Graduate

Krishna Chaitanya Kalidindi
Mathematics

Anna K. Suter Scholarship

Professor Anna K. Suter was an advocate for students, promoting academic success and encouraging many students to persist and achieve their degree objectives. This scholarship was established in her memory to support full-time undergraduate students, thus ensuring that the next generation of mathematicians would be recognized for their achievements.

Freshman

Daniel G. Hout
Math Teaching

Continuing

Noah R. Hout
Mathematics

Clayton J. Kelly
Mathematics

Catherine J. Sprunger
Math Teaching

Maddie Whalen
Mathematics

Geraldine and David Rigdon RISE Scholarship

This scholarship was established by Dr. Robert D. Rigdon, a dedicated emeritus faculty member of the Department of Mathematical Sciences, to honor the memory of his parents, Geraldine and David Rigdon. This award supports undergraduate science majors who have integrated one of the four IUPUI RISE initiatives into their studies.

Katrina N. Hoetmer
Mathematics

Charalambos D. Aliprantis Prize

This award was established by Dr. Bart Ng, Dean Emeritus and Professor of the School of Science, to honor the memory of Dr. Charalambos D. “Roko” Aliprantis and his contributions to the development of the Department of Mathematical Sciences. Dr. Aliprantis was a dedicated faculty member from 1974 through 1996 and contributed greatly to interdisciplinary research in mathematics. This scholarship is awarded to outstanding mathematics graduate students who exemplify outstanding scholastic achievements as well as leadership qualities.

Maksim Kosmakov
Mathematics

Cowen Graduate Scholarship

This scholarship was established by Dr. Carl Cowen and Janice Wheater-Cowen to honor and memorialize Janet Catherine Cowen for her lifelong commitment to philanthropy and education. This scholarship will support a promising graduate student who is pursuing a Ph.D. in Mathematical Sciences.

Ribhu Deb
Mathematics

Outstanding Beginning Mathematics Graduate Student Award

Krishna Chaitanya Kalidindi
Mathematics

Outstanding Advanced Mathematics Graduate Student Award

Erin O. Zhao
Mathematics

Outstanding Beginning Statistics Graduate Student Award

Yuxin Dong
Statistics

Outstanding Advanced Statistics Graduate Student Award

Xiang Wang
Statistics

Outstanding Graduate Student Teaching Award

Amanda L. Albright
Mathematics

Outstanding Senior Actuarial Science Major Award

Vivian J. Kemp
Mathematics and Quantitative Economics

Outstanding Senior Applied Math Major Award

Croix M. Gyurek
Mathematics and Computer Science

Outstanding Senior Math Education Major Award

Kathryn Keith
Math Teaching

Outstanding Senior Pure Math Major Award

Emily G. McClear
Mathematics

Outstanding Senior Applied Statistics Award

Sanika Kotnis
Mathematics and Quantitative Economics

Outstanding Master's Student in Statistics Program Award

Tingbo Guo
Applied Statistics

Outstanding Math Assistance Center Tutor Award

Carl D. Franke

Outstanding Math Assistance Center Mentor Award

Michael X. Peck
Psychology

Math Major Spirit Award

Clayton J. Kelly
Mathematics

Bernie Morrel Full-Time Faculty Teaching Award

Jared O. Barber, Ph.D.
Department of Mathematical Sciences

Bernie Morrel Part-Time Faculty Teaching Award

AnneMarie E. Schreiber
Department of Mathematical Sciences

Neuroscience Awards

Academic Excellence Award

This award goes to the graduating neuroscience major who has the highest GPA.

Aditi Ravikumar
Neuroscience and Biology

Seth Sears Memorial Outstanding Service Award

This award is made to a graduating senior for considerable and outstanding service to the neuroscience program at IUPUI.

Aditi Ravikumar
Neuroscience and Biology

Seth D. Weir
Neuroscience

Outstanding Research Award

This award goes to a graduating neuroscience major who has extensively participated and excelled in research in the neurosciences.

Seth D. Weir
Neuroscience

Physics Awards

Rutuj Gavankar Memorial Scholarship

The Rutuj Gavankar Memorial Scholarship supports undergraduate scholarships for seniors in the School of Science who are majoring in Physics, have demonstrated excellence in research and course work, especially in physics and mathematics.

Evan Liang
Physics

University Physics Award

This award is given to an outstanding student in the PHYS 15200/PHYS 25100 course sequence.

Clayton J. Kelly
Mathematics

Forrest Meiere Prize for an Outstanding Undergraduate Physics Major

Dr. Forrest Meiere was the Physics Department’s first and longest-serving chair, dedicating 32 years to physics education and research at IUPUI. This award is made to an undergraduate physics major who has achieved an outstanding academic record.

Benjamin Shoemaker
Physics

D.J. Angus-Scientech Education Foundation Physics Scholarship

This scholarship was created by the D.J. Angus-Scientech Education Foundation. It is awarded to a sophomore or junior student who is in good academic standing and has shown significant improvement in grade average.

Alex N. Atrosh
Mechanical Engineering

Han Paik Mentoring Award

The Han Paik Mentoring Award is given in honor of long-time physics faculty member, Dr. Han Won Paik. Dr. Paik joined the faculty of Purdue University in Indianapolis in 1962. He was a devoted teacher of physics throughout his career, and after his retirement in 1993, Dr. Paik continued to mentor students in physics on a volunteer basis. This award is given to a physics major or minor who has shown a commitment to mentoring other students in physics.

Janice Hsu
Physics

Outstanding Graduate Student Award

Thomas Bsaibes
Physics

Psychology Awards

Robert G. Neel Award

Dr. Neel is a former chair of the Department of Psychology, and this award honors his many years of service to the School. This award recognizes a senior with the highest GPA.

Muntaseer M. Islam
Psychology

Robert I. Long Award

As department chair, Dr. Long made considerable contributions to the psychology program. This award is made to a graduating senior for excellence in leadership, research, and service.

Dominique N. Davison
Psychology

John F. Kremer Undergraduate Mentor Award

Throughout his career, Dr. Kremer believed that peer mentors could have a powerful effect on student success in an introductory psychology class. This award is given to the peer mentor who best exemplifies the characteristics associated with this success: dedication, relentless persistence, creativity, enthusiasm, flexibility, and the ability to connect with all students.

Katherine G. LeFevre
Psychology

Dr. Robert Stewart Memorial Scholarship

Dr. Stewart was an accomplished Research Scientist and later Senior Lecturer in Psychology from 1995-2020. As a scientist, Rob mentored many students in research. As an instructor, Rob made important contributions to the undergraduate teaching mission of Psychology. The Rob Stewart Memorial Scholarship not only celebrates Rob’s many contributions to teaching and mentoring, but also marks the considerable debt of gratitude that Rob’s students and colleagues owe him even today. This award is given to an accomplished first-generation Psychology major in their junior or senior year.

Asia D. Holloway
Psychology

Undergraduate Research Award

This award is based upon the total papers accepted for publication, papers accepted for presentation, or amount of contribution by the student to research, especially in generating research ideas and in writing papers.

Sophia C. Koesterer
Psychology

Outstanding Student Teaching Award

This award recognizes outstanding student teaching assistants for their superior ability to impart knowledge of chosen topics to students and to stimulate their desire to master such topics. The award recognizes that teaching extends beyond the classroom and includes activities such as mentoring and motivating of students, either formally or informally.

Undergraduate

Sophia C. Koesterer
Psychology

Graduate

Kari Haines
Addiction Neuroscience

Clinical Psychology Award

This award recognizes a graduate student with outstanding performance in clinical work and training.

Shirin Khazvand
Clinical Psychology

Clinical Psychology Award for Service

This award recognizes a graduate student with outstanding performance in citizenship service to the department.

Christiana Prestigiacomo
Clinical Psychology

Clinical Psychology Award for Research Excellence

This award recognizes a graduate student who goes above and beyond the research requirements of the graduate degree and shows outstanding performance in research.

Danielle B. Abel
Clinical Psychology

Paul J. McKinley Award

This award is presented to a student in the Addiction Neuroscience doctoral program in memory of former student Paul J. McKinley.

Meredith R. Bauer
Addiction Neuroscience

McKinley Award for Outreach, Public Engagement, and Diversity

Cherish E. Ardinger
Addiction Neuroscience

Outstanding Industrial/Organizational Psychology Graduate Student Award

This award recognizes an outstanding master’s student in Industrial/Organizational Psychology.

Bobbie Burton
Industrial/Organizational Psychology

Outstanding Clinical Practicum Supervisor Award

This award recognizes exemplary supervision and training provided to graduate students in clinical psychology who are engaged in clinical practice.

Garry Wright, Ph.D., HSPP
Pediatric Neuropsychologist

2023 IUPUI Top 100 Undergraduate Science Majors

Sponsored by the IUPUI Alumni Council and the Student Organization for Alumni Relations (SOAR), the IUPUI “Top 100” Student Recognition Awards honor students for their scholastic achievement, extracurricular activities on campus, and civic and community service.

Of this year’s Top 100 students, 37 hailed from the School of Science.

Rebekah J. Addison
Biology

Omar A. Alhaffar
Neuroscience

Bomi Anifowose
Biology

Logan M. Boyer
Biology

Olivia Brown
Biology Teaching

Alexa C. Calonia
Neuroscience

Janaki C. Dave
Neuroscience

Becca Daye
Neuroscience

Macy M. Deckert
Chemistry

Michaela M. Di Palmo
Psychology and Music Technology

Kelechi Echeumuna
Biology

Michael T. Fletcher
Biology and Medical Humanities & Health Studies

Neha Garugu
Neuroscience

Kartikay Gulia
Computer Science

Madison Hagan
Biology

Noah T. Hamilton
Biology

Hamna Hamna
Biology

Olivia T. Hendzel
Biology

Elaine A. Hilton
Biology

Natalie N. Holmes
Forensic & Investigative Sciences

Jared T. Hutchek
Environmental Science and Management

Simi Kaur
Biology

Faith R. Kiehl
Biology

Gavin P. Kinsella
Biology

Sophia C. Koesterer
Psychology

Hope Leonard
Psychology and Music Technology

Jordan E. Nus
Biology

Rujuta Parekar
Psychology

Carson H. Prosser
Neuroscience

Nicholas C. Richardson
Biology

Gina N. Romines
Psychology

Catherine E. Sellmer
Psychology

Monica Sharma
Neuroscience

Arnima Singh
Biology

Alex M. Stocker
Psychology and English

Bergen I. Tom
Biology

Vivian V. Valadares
Biology