Christmas 2004
December 20, 2004
We have now been in Bracy Hall for over one year and we are almost completely moved in. Yes we do have the usual few boxes that have yet to be unpacked and some miscellaneous items to tend to; however, Bracy Hall has provided a wonderful work environment for faculty, staff, and students alike. This Fall we welcomed Dr. Debra Boyd-Kimball to the department as our newly hired Biochemist, replacing Dr. Truman Turnquist who retired last year after 39 years of service. Thank you Truman! Deb comes to us from the University of Kentucky, completing her Ph.D. work in Biological Chemistry in a blazing three years after finishing her undergraduate degree at Bethany College.
This past year has been one of growth and new opportunities. Some highlights include:
- Dr. Mark Bruce (1980) gave a talk about low level Hg analysis at Severn-Trent Labs, an environmental analysis lab where he works, and opened a door to new internship opportunities for our students. Dr. Gary Loar (1973) gave a talk on career opportunities as an industrial chemist and through his company is sponsoring undergraduate research at Mount Union.
- The department hosted a workshop for high school chemistry teachers in June sponsored by a Math/Science Partnership grant for Stark County from the NSF.
- Five Chemistry majors graduated last May. Melissa Clark is pursuing a Ph.D. at the University of Utah. Sara Duncan is in the Chemistry graduate program at Youngstown State University. Kristen Emig is pursuing an advanced degree in Neuroscience at Emory University. Katherine Kahl is in the Pharm.D. program at Ohio State University. Rebekah Miller is a 2nd Lt. in the United States Air Force and stationed at Sheppard AFB in Texas.
- The number of Biochemistry majors is now around 10 assisted by another strong Freshman class of majors and catching up to the number of Chemistry majors.
- Lydia Bell received the Alumni Scholarship award last year. She is currently a senior Chemistry major and president of the Student Affiliates ACS.
The Alumni Scholarship and other opportunities have been provided by generous alums and we appreciate very much the support we have received over the years. One opportunity like this, the Tomsich grants, will be ending soon. These grants supported on-campus summer research for science students over the past five years. We see a growing need for continued on-campus summer research support for our students. Please contact us if you would be interested in discussing this further.
If you happen to be in the area, please drop by for a visit. We would enjoy getting more acquainted and showing you the department and Bracy Hall. From all of us and our families to you and your families, have a blessed Christmas and a joyous New Year.
Sincerely,
The Mount Union College Chemistry Faculty & Staff