Honors Convocation

Program for April 20, 2024

Welcome

Jane R. Williams, Ph.D.
Professor, Psychology

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

Jane R. Williams, Ph.D.
Professor, Psychology

Department/Program Awards

Presented by the Department Chair, Program Director or Representative

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

Chemistry and Chemical Biology
Eric C. Long, Ph.D., Department Representative

Computer and Information Science
Mihran Tuceryan, Ph.D., Chair

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

Forensic and Investigative Sciences
Gina M. Londino-Smolar, M.S., Interim Director

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

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

Physics
Ricardo S. Decca, Ph.D., Chair

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

Closing Remarks

Jane R. Williams, Ph.D.
Professor, Psychology

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.

Vivek P. Amin
Physics

Ryan J. Eller
Biology

Fang Li
Mathematical Sciences

Jeffrey X. Watt
Mathematical Sciences

Michael Yard
Biology

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.

Yongming Deng
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.

Vitaly Tarasov
Mathematical Sciences

Service Award

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

Cristine L. Czachowski
Psychology

Full-Time Lecturer Service Award

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

Sharon Rangazas
Mathematical Sciences

Associate Faculty Award

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

Adrienne J. Kelley
Forensic & Investigative Sciences

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.

Jane E. Alexander
Science

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.

Kenda S. Hamersley
Mathematical Sciences

Crystal K. York
Science

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.

Kari Haines
Psychology

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.

Patrick L. Gentry
Biology

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.

Vitaly Tarasov
Mathematical 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.

Denise L. Slayback-Barry
Biology

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.

Noah T. Hamilton
Biology

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.

Alexis M. Ochoa
Chemistry and Forensic & Investigative Sciences

Jujhar Singh
Biology and Chemistry

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.

Trent G. Platt
Forensic & Investigative Sciences

Ayan Taya
Biology

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.

Kayla Bauer
Environmental Science

Cora M. Melby
Mathematics and Economics

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.

Michael Cronin
Psychology

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.

Gracie L. Boles
Psychology

Ajaylin J. Spence
Psychology

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.

Jewelz Jordan
Psychology

Renee N. Mitchell
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.

Joreylis Michelle F. Montgomery
Psychology

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.

Noah R. Hout
Mathematics and Physics

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.

Kayla Bauer
Environmental Science

Grace L. Johnson
Psychology

Gene and Dorothy Marrs Memorial Scholarship

The Gene and Dorothy Marrs Memorial Scholarship supports travel and registration costs for undergraduate science majors interested in attending and presenting at academic conferences relevant to their research. Students must have an accepted poster or oral presentation to be eligible.

Katherine E. Brady
Biology

Bradley Roseberry
Biology

David and Teresa Nicodemus Research Scholarship

The David and Teresa Nicodemus Research Scholarship recognizes science majors who are involved in longevity research focused on aging or are involved in quality-of-life research associated with aging, including but not limited to, neurodegenerative disease.

Andrew M. Brumett
Neuroscience

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.

Khepri Hazel
Biology

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.

Anastasiya Ivanchenko
Biology

Angie Lane
Biology and Global & International Studies

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.

Briyanna G. Herrera
Chemistry 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.

Kyle Blake
Psychology

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.

Alyssa Blaszynski
Biology

Liz Brazda
Chemistry

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.

Hillarie D. Arellano
Neuroscience

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.

MiThaya Kheat
Medical Imaging Technology

Sama Zahran
Biology

William and Donola Orr Scholarship

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

Blaine W. Ruddle
Psychology

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.

Nicole S. Gordon
Biology and Neuroscience

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

Emily Peterson
Math Teaching

Lindsey R. Soruco
Chemistry

Heather J. Taylor
Math Teaching

Natasha Truett
Environmental Science

Emma K. Wheatley
Chemistry

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.

Christine A. Abeysekera
Neuroscience

Natasha B. Adu
Biology

Ikshaa Ajmera
Psychology

Ritta Ayogu
Biology

Cadence L. Bailey
Neuroscience

Kayla N. Borowski
Biology and Forensic & Investigative Sciences

Alexa C. Calonia
Neuroscience

Janet Chen
Psychology

Stacy David
Biology

Erica Estes
Forensic & Investigative Sciences

Aether Fisher
Chemistry

Katie Gaddis
Psychology

Jenna D. Guzman
Neuroscience

Precious A. Harvey
Psychology

Bella A. Hocking
Forensic & Investigative Sciences and Psychology

Kirstyn Ketchum
Forensic & Investigative Sciences

Katherine M. Lay
Psychology

Tania Lloyds
Biology

Sydney E. Lyon
Forensic & Investigative Sciences

Van Mawi
Biology

Lydia J. Peterson
Biology

Ines M. Rivera
Psychology and Media Arts & Science

Gillian I. Rockwell
Geology

Chloe A. Smail
Biology and Forensic & Investigative Sciences

Abigail Van Santen
Forensic & Investigative Sciences

Priscilla A. Zavala
Computer Science

Biology Awards

Outstanding Academic Achievement Award

Bachelor of Arts

Anthony J. Ball
Biology

Bachelor of Science

Tommy Quach
Biology and Neuroscience

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.

Sukhleen K. Dhami
Biology

Angela Magaletti
Chemistry

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.

Emily S. Massa
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.

Nicole S. Gordon
Biology and Neuroscience

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.

Angie Lane
Biology and Global & International Studies

Joseph Russo Memorial Scholarship

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

Jada E. White
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.

Linnea R. Johnson
Biology

Outstanding Research Award

Baccalaureate

Jordan E. Nus
Biology

Master

Caleb D. Rutan
Biology

Doctorate

Jared Thomas
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.

Mariana Moraes de Lima Perini
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.

Angela Magaletti
Chemistry

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.

Macy Deckert
Chemistry

Meghan Hamilton
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.

Macy Deckert
Chemistry

American Institute of Chemists Student Research and Recognition Award

Awarded to an outstanding senior majoring in chemistry or biochemistry.

Meghan Hamilton
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.

Alexander J. Morris
Chemistry

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.

Gabe K. Cuffel
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

Devin W. Troncin
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.

Faith R. Bittner
Chemistry and Forensic & Investigative Sciences

Outstanding Undergraduate Analytical Chemistry Student

This award recognizes the outstanding undergraduate student in Analytical Chemistry.

Macy Deckert
Chemistry

O'Donnell Undergraduate Summer Research Scholaship

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.

Caitlin M. Patterson
Chemistry

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.

Alexander M. Cluff
Biology

Loren T. Jones Memorial Scholarship

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

Angel Portillo
Biology

CRC Freshman Chemistry Achievement Award

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

Rachel L. Kuntz
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.

Xavier Matier
Mechanical Engineering Technology

O'Donnell 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.

Himanshi Upadhyaya
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.

Kymeri E. Davis
Chemistry

Sumon Hati
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.

Gregory Davis
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.

Nicholas J. Baird
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.

Emanuele Plebani
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.

William L. Reindl
Artificial Intelligence

Promising Freshman Award

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

Phanindra Surya Vadali
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.

Omar Abdelalim
Computer Science

Earth and Environmental 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 and Environmental Sciences.

Catherine L. Blystone
Environmental Science

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.

Carissa J. Cullen
Geology

Women in Geology (CACC Geology) Scholarship

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

Sal Mahoney
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 and Environmental Sciences, and she as the Director of Special Education and school psychologist in the Speedway school system.

Brandon J. Biagini
Environmental Science

Elijah S. Stukenborg
Geology

Dr. Arthur Mirsky Graduate Fellowship

Raenah Bailey
Applied Earth Sciences

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.

Bridget F. Janney
Criminal Justice

Dr. Jay A. Siegel Memorial Travel Scholarship

This scholarship supports students in the Forensic and Investigative Sciences Program who plan to attend or present at a scientific conference.

Kaitlyn M. Adams
Forensic & Investigative Sciences

Katie Jensen
Forensic & Investigative Sciences

Cassandra A. Waletzko
Forensic & Investigative Sciences

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 M. Ochoa
Forensic & Investigative Sciences and Chemistry

Academic Achievement Award

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

Rachel M. Bischoff
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.

Anitra Taylor
Forensic & Investigative Sciences and Chemistry

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.

Charlie Gates
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

Abbie N. Dafler
Mathematics

Graduate

Naba K. Bhattacharya
Mathematics

Ammar Hussain
Mathematics

Yuehui Xu
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.

Julia W. Biesiada
Mathematics

Daniel G. Hout
Math Teaching

Jordan Fryman
Mathematics

Clayton J. Kelly
Mathematics

Sebastien J. Minto
Mathematics

Catherine J. Sprunger
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.

Kenta Miyahara
Mathematics

Outstanding Beginning Mathematics Graduate Student Award

Andrei A. Grigorev
Mathematics

Outstanding Advanced Mathematics Graduate Student Award

Keshav Dahiya
Mathematics

Outstanding Advanced Statistics Graduate Student Award

Ran Mo
Statistics

Outstanding Graduate Student Teaching Award

Yuehui Xu
Mathematics

Outstanding Senior Actuarial Science Major Award

Abbie N. Dafler
Mathematics

Outstanding Senior Applied Math Major Award

Mastgeer K. Khalsa
Mathematics

Outstanding Senior Math Education Major Award

Sara M. Heavrin
Math Teaching

Outstanding Senior Pure Math Major Award

Clayton J. Kelly
Mathematics

Outstanding Senior Applied Statistics Award

Clara Pineda
Mathematics and Global & International Studies

Outstanding Master's Student in Computational Data Science Program Award

Neeraj Gupta
Computational Data Science

Outstanding Master's Student in Statistics Program Award

Stephan Gerve
Applied Statistics

Outstanding Math Assistance Center Tutor Award

Stephanie M. Mangum
Elementary Education

Math Major Spirit Award

Maddie Whalen
Mathematics

Outstanding Mathematical Sciences Staff Award

Monica M. Thompson-Deal
Mathematical Sciences

Bernie Morrel Part-Time Faculty Teaching Award

William A. Schmidt
Mathematical Sciences

Bernie Morrel Full-Time Faculty Teaching Award

Bogdan Nica, Ph.D.
Mathematical Sciences

Neuroscience Awards

Outstanding First-Generation Award

This award is made to a student who has a high GPA and has navigated their first year though the IUPUI program.

Sydney R. Corbett
Neuroscience

Neuroscience Spirit Award

This award is made to a student who has a high GPA and demonstrated a passion for neuroscience.

Carlie R. Werner
Neuroscience

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.

John Venezia
Neuroscience

Dr. Bethany Neal-Beliveau Women in Neuroscience Award

This award is made to a graduating female student who has demonstrated excellence in scholarship, service and research.

Megan Wells
Neuroscience

Dr. Charles Goodlett Inquisitive Mind Award

Andrew M. Brumett
Neuroscience

Dr. Steve Boehm Young Scientist Award

This award is made to a student who has participated in addiction neuroscience undergraduate research.

Vaishnavi Chouhan
Neuroscience

Outstanding Undergraduate Research Award

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

Dani M. Lopes
Neuroscience

Outstanding Neuroscience Professor Award

Bethany Neal-Beliveau, Ph.D.
Psychology

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.

Noah R. Hout
Physics and Mathematics

University Physics Award

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

Billy A. Frazer
Motorsports Engineering

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.

Millie Barron
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 T. Taylor
Physics

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.

Vincent G. Peigh
Physics

Outstanding Graduate Student Award

Andres Cavazos
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.

Julia L. Myers
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.

Hannah McKenna
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.

Jondea Mon
Biology

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.

Zack M. Jones
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.

Michaela M. DiPalmo
Music Therapy

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

Mary A. Bolton
Psychology

Graduate

Kari Haines
Addiction Neuroscience

Outstanding Industrial/Organizational Psychology Graduate Student Award

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

Mya M. Tucker-Cesar
Industrial/Organizational Psychology

Clinical Psychology Award

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

Christiana Prestigiacomo
Clinical Psychology

Clinical Psychology Award for Service

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

Evan J. Myers
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.

Melissa A. Liu
Clinical 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.

Ayca Coskunpinar-Byerley, Ph.D.
Indiana Neuropsychology Group

2024 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.

This year's Top 100 includes 38 School of Science students.

Raja Allmdar Tariq Ali
Computer Science

Dema Amro
Biology

Anum Ansar
Biology

Amanat Basra
Computer Science

Merna Benyamin
Psychology

Connor Bomar
Psychology

Akshat Boudh
Computer Science

Adam R. Carter
Biology

Nicole T. Cremasco
Computer Science

Montana J. Crossman
Psychology

Madhulika Darbha
Computer Science

Tessa C. Eller
Biology

Lauren R. Fancher
Biology

Lulya T. Fecadu
Computer Science and Neuroscience

Michael T. Fletcher
Biology and Neuroscience

Haley A. Foli
Psychology

Chirag D. Goenka
Computer Science

Megan E. Goley
Psychology

Natalie N. Holmes
Biology, Chemistry, and Forensic & Investigative Sciences

Madeline N. Ihrke
Chemistry

Aram Isikbay
Computer Science

Simi Kaur
Biology

Gavin P. Kinsella
Biology

Katherine G. LeFevre
Psychology

Ansh Mittal
Computer Science

Sania Mohamed Sheifud
Biology

Paco Patino
Biology

Clara Pineda
Mathematics and Global & International Studies

Carson G. Prosser
Neuroscience

Ashley T. Remy
Biology

Rachel C. Sarkine
Biology and Neuroscience

Jacob A. Stewart
Neuroscience

Morgan E. Streicher
Psychology

Allyson J. Stuckey
Biology

Vivian V. Valadares
Biology

Shubham Vats
Computer Science

Jada E. White
Biology

Abby E. Wright
Biology, Chemistry, and Forensic & Investigative Sciences