Honors and awards

July 2012

Sanchez wins presidential award for neutrino research

Mayly Sanchez, ISU assistant professor in physics and astronomy and physicist at the Argonne National Laboratory, won a Presidential Early Career Award for Scientists and Engineers, the White House announced. The award is the highest honor awarded by the United States government to science and engineering professionals in the early stages of their research careers.

Rollins named 2012 TBP McDonald mentor

Derrick Rollins, professor of chemical and biological engineering and professor-in-charge of community-based recruitment and transition at Iowa State, is the 2012 Tau Beta Pi (TBP)-McDonald Mentor. The award recognizes engineering educators or professionals in industry, government, or service organizations who have shown true concern for the individual by supporting an environment for developing talents, and who have earned respect and recognition for their contributions to their field and to the greater community.

Iowa State University Associate Professors Presented Teaching Awards

The North American Colleges and Teachers of Agriculture (NACTA) last month honored two Iowa State University faculty members for their teaching ability. Curt Youngs, ISU animal science, was presented the group’s Central Region Outstanding Teacher Award. Mike Retallick, ISU agricultural education and studies, was presented the NACTA Teacher Fellow Award.

Upah is state "star"

Mike Upah, regional director of the ISU Small Business Development Center, was named the 2012 Iowa "State Star" by the national Association of Small Business Development Centers. The award recognizes exemplary work performance, contributions to the organization's economic development efforts and a strong commitment to small business.

Downing receives honorary professorship

John Downing, professor of ecology, evolution and organismal biology and of agricultural and biosystems engineering, received an honorary chair and professorship from Nanchang University in China. The chair is named for the Gan River, the major tributary to Poyang Lake, China's largest lake and a national water and wildlife treasure. Downing is helping university researchers analyze and develop remediation strategies for water quality problems in the lake.