2003 Award Winners

Dr. Diane F. Halpern

Many dream that someday their education, insight, and dedication will empower them to truly make a difference in the world. Diane Halpern is living proof that dreams can become a reality. Most recently named the president-elect of the American Psychology Association for 2004, Dr. Halpern has distinguished herself as an innovative leader in the field with the capacity to make major advancements. As president of the association, her goals are to create more effective communication with legislators and the public, and breach a better understanding of psychology as a science. She hopes to convince lawmakers that psychologists can help with today's most pressing problems and should be included when discussing legislation pertaining to healthcare, insurance, education, justice and science. "Diane Halpern is one of the world's outstanding teachers, scholars and administrators. Her recent election to the presidency of the American Psychology Association is clear testimony to the high esteem in which she is held by the psychological profession," said William N. Dember, professor emeritus of psychology and former dean. "I believe that there are few graduates of the McMicken College who can match her achievements." After graduating from the University of Pennsylvania with her bachelor's in psychology, Dr. Halpern moved on to Temple University to receive her master's. She arrived at the University of Cincinnati in 1977, where she went on to receive an additional master's degree and her doctorate in psychology. While earning her PhD, she worked at UC as consultant in the Behavioral Science Laboratory as a teaching assistant. Dr. Halpern began her professional teaching career at the University of California in 1979. She next relocated to California State University where she served as a professor and chair of the Department of Psychology. In 2001, she became director of the Berger Institute for Work, Family and Children where she currently serves. For her excellence in the field, Dr. Halpern has been honored with such awards as the Western Psychological Association Outstanding Teaching Award, Wang Family Excellence Award, the American Psychological Foundation Award for Distinguished Teaching, the Eminent Women in Psychology Award and Friends of Women's Studies, among numerous others. She has also contributed as a prolific author with 16 books, 42 book chapters, more than 90 articles and 120 meeting papers. Her heralded reputation as an educator and a psychologist led to an invitation to testify before congress about educational issues in 2001. Dr. Halpern has spread her knowledge and expertise to three continents by placing herself in the roles of teacher, researcher and scholar. She worked as a visiting professor in psychology at the University of British Columbia in Vancouver, B.C., the Instituto Technologico v de Estudios Superiores de Monterrey in Mexico, Moscow State University in Russia and Bogazici University in Turkey. Most recently, she traveled to Hong Kong, where she served as a consultant to the Board of Education in a major restructuring of educational policies during 2000 and 2001. "Dr. Halpern has made contributions across all three domains. Most importantly, she has accomplished great things as a researcher, citizen and teacher," said Kevin J. Corcoran, head of the Department of Psychology. "She is a tremendous role model to men and women alike."

Dr. Sidney Peerless

As a gifted physician and a generous philanthropist, Sidney Peerless has inspired those around him through his tireless dedication to medical advancement and research, and his devotion to vital and charitable aspects of the community. Dr. Peerless graduated from McMicken College in 1944 and received his medical degree in 1945. He received his degree during a time when the training of physicians at the University of Cincinnati was combined between the McMicken College of Arts and Sciences and the College of Medicine. The two colleges initiated the program to optimize the efficient education of physicians during World War II and the post-war era. As an otolaryngologist, Dr. Peerless practiced medicine in Cincinnati for more than 50 years, filling lead positions at both Jewish Hospital and University Hospital. He has earned respect throughout the medical community, being considered one of the finest practitioners in his specialty in the city. Although now retired, he remains and active member of the Children's Hospital through his research and volunteer work at the Children's Hospital Medical Center in the Aaron Pearlman Center for children with cerebral palsy. Dr. Peerless also continues to play a vital role in the community by dedicating his time to issues surrounding multiple sclerosis, Jewish education and the arts. As an outstanding member of the community, Dr. Peerless has received countless awards and recognition for his contributions including those from the University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, The Jewish Hospital of Cincinnati and the Hebrew Union College-Jewish Institute of Religion. He received additional honors from the National Conference of Christians and Jews and the American Jewish Committee. Through his accomplishments, Dr. Peerless was appointed to the National Institute of Health, Neurological and Communicative Disorders and Stroke Council. He is a current member of the board of Children's Hospital of Cincinnati and Provident Bank. "Sidney Peerless is a credit to our college, to our university and our city. He is a role model to us all," said Steven Fine, department head Judaic Studies. "His dedication to Judaic Studies brings together his Cincinnati and Jewish commitments in an exciting way that enriches faculty and students – not to mention readers of the lecture series around the world." As a tireless friend of Judaic Studies, Dr. Peerless has provided wise counsel to the leadership of the department. By serving as a board member of the Jewish Foundation, he helped initiate the transformation of the Judaic Studies Program to a full department in McMicken College. Dr. Peerless is also the benefactor of the Rabbi Louis Feinberg Lectures, the oldest lecture series in Judaic Studies in the United States. A patron of numerous charitable groups and organizations, Dr. Peerless is actively involved in improving life for all those around him. He extends generosity to groups such as Bonds for Israel, the United Way, the Boy Scouts of America, Sharre Zedek Hospital in Jerusalem, the Wellness Community, and the University of Cincinnati. In 2002, Dr. Peerless received the Jewish National Fund Friend's Past and Present Award for his efforts and energies to make the world a better place to live.

Honorable Stephen M. McNamee

While in a position of great authority, the Honorable Stephen McNamee continues to distinguish himself among his peers by showing humanity, warmth, and concern to all people and recognizing their equality regardless of age, wealth or educational background. Through his dedicated actions, he has become a role model and an influential member of the community, inspiring those in both Arizona and Cincinnati. "I am extremely proud and honored to be an alumna of the University of Cincinnati in the same company as someone the stature of Judge McNamee. Not only has his career been and continues to be a skyrocketing success, but he always takes a moment to mention his UC roots and connections," said Ana Maria Merico-Stephens, associate professor of law at the University of Arizona. "In addition to being an extraordinary talented jurist, he is one of the most thoughtful persons I have encountered. He unselfishly takes time from his overburdened schedule to give back to the community and participate in enhancing the lives of those who are fortunate to come in contact with him. He is humble, brilliant, caring, dedicated, a visionary and an enchanting human being."

Judge McNamee earned his bachelor of arts in History from the University of Cincinnati in 1964. He moved on to receive his masters of arts in 1967 and his Juris Doctorate in 1969 from the University of Arizona. Although an Arizona resident, Judge McNamee's ties remain strong to the University of Cincinnati. He has served as president of the Phoenix Alumni Association for the University of Cincinnati for over two decades. He also continues to be an active member of his social fraternity Sigma Chi having been inducted into the Order of Constantine. Judge McNamee began his professional career as an assistant United States attorney from 1971 to 1979, then moved on to become assistant director of the district of Arizona. From 1980 to 1985, Judge McNamee was appointed as first assistant United States attorney, followed by appointment to chief assistant United States attorney from 1985 to 1990. In 1990, President George H. W. Bush appointed him to the position of United States district judge, District of Arizona where he currently serves. As an active member of the Attorney's General Advocacy Institute, Judge McNamee participates in overseeing the Continuing Legal Education of the Department of Justice. He has been called upon many occasions to offer testimony to a number to a number of congressional committees on behalf of the department. He has also lent his expertise by serving on dozens of judicial committees, advisory boards and institutes. As a distinguished member of the community, Judge McNamee has been the recipient of almost two dozen international, national, and state commendations and awards. He has been honored as the recipient of an outstanding United State's Attorney Award from Attorney General Edwin Meese III for dedicated leadership. He was honored with the National Crime Victims Award from Attorney General Richard Thornburgh for the development of a model victim/witness program and he received commendation by Gustav Pelricioli, Ambassador of Mexico to the United States, for success in encouraging bi-national collaboration.

Dr. Laurence H. Lattman

As a nationally renowned geologist, educator, and administrator, Laurence H. Lattman continues to improve the future for students through his writings, research, and generosity. His particular blend of skills has allowed him recognize weakness, then restructure and improve college departments and programs, bringing national recognition to a number of universities. "Larry Lattman has served as an academician at four different universities in the United States and has established himself as an outstanding educator, researcher and civic servant," said Attlia Kilinic, head of the Geology Department. "He is a product of an A&S department that we should all be proud of. He has maintained strong ties with the University of Cincinnati since 1975." After receiving his Bachelor of Chemical Engineering degree from City College of New York in 1948, Dr. Lattman moved to Ohio to earn his masters and doctorate in geology from McMicken College in 1951 and 1953 respectfully. Dr. Lattman spread his knowledge and expertise in the field of geology to a number of universities and companies throughout the United States. He began his professional career as an instructor in geology first at the University of Cincinnati in 1952, then spent the next year at the University of Michigan. From 1953 to 1957, Dr. Lattman took the position of photo geologist for the Gulf Oil Corporation. While working for the company, he continued to instruct students at Pennsylvania State University as an assistant, associate and eventually full professor of Geology. In 1970, Dr. Lattman added the responsibilities of an administrator and moved back to the University of Cincinnati to head the Geology department. He coupled his expertise with foresight to restructure the department and make it competitive in the region. In 1975, Dr. Lattman received national recognition when he became Dean of two separate colleges at the University of Utah. Serving as the Dean of the College of Mines and Minerals and Dean of the College of Engineering, he brought high levels of visibility in education and research to the university. In 1983, Dr. Lattman was asked to turn around a troubled New Mexico Tech. As the President there, Dr. Lattman not only reversed waning student enrollment, he also established the greatest growth for research and research facilities in the university's hundred-year history. Dr. Lattman has served on numerous boards during his career including those in the fields of science and technology, education, business, and civil service. He is also noted for presenting over 50 papers and numerous testimonies before legislative, civic, and federal groups on technical and educational topics. His published works as author or co-author include 45 technical reports and articles in professional journals. In addition, Dr. Lattman co-wrote two books, "Aerial Photographs in the Field of Geology" and "Energy Law." Recently, Dr. Lattman and his wife Hanna, also a graduate of the University of Cincinnati, have established an endowed fund for McMicken's Geology department. The endowment is designed to provide funding for geology faculty and their research projects.

Marian Spencer

Being a champion of human rights has not been an easy battle for Marian Spencer, but one she has excelled at for more than five decades. Her unyielding dedication to righting injustice and establishing equality for race and gender has left a permanent mark on the City of Cincinnati, proving one woman's voice can make a difference. Today, Ms. Spencer continues to be a determined activist and play a vital role in the community. Cincinnati Enquirer columnist Laura Pulfer summed up Spencer by writing, "And the reason she keeps going, she tells me is very simple. Because there still is work to be done." As the granddaughter of a freed slave, Ms. Spencer recognized an early need to break down racial barriers. Her grandfather and father hired lawyers to win the right for her and sister to attend the local high school in Gallipolis, Ohio. Following graduation, Ms. Spencer and her twin sister Millie ventured onto the campus of the University of Cincinnati as scholarship recipients in 1938. While at UC, Ms. Spencer began her quest for equality by campaigning to open the college prom to all students and allow African-American students to live on campus. After earning her bachelor's in English from the University of Cincinnati in 1942, she continued to play an active role in the university through the Friends of Women's Studies and Women's Studies program at UC. In 1952, Ms. Spencer took on the first of many highly publicized challenges after she was denied entry to Coney Island on the Fourth of July. By taking management to court, Ms. Spencer won the right for any person to enter the park, regardless of the color of their skin. Following her victory, she next went on to successfully integrate the YWCA, eventually becoming a co-chair in the organization's fund-raising campaign. However, Ms. Spencer proved she not only had skills as an activist, but also as an inspirational leader. From 1971 to 1973, she served as the first African-American elected as president of the Women's City Club. In 1980, Ms. Spencer became the first and only woman to be elected president of the Cincinnati Chapter of the NAACP. Then in 1983, she broke another race and gender barrier by being the first African-American woman to be elected to Cincinnati City Council. During her term, she was appointed Vice-Mayor of Cincinnati. Ms. Spencer also served a term as president of Cincinnati's Chapter of Links Inc. Ms. Spencer's accomplishments have not gone unnoticed in the community. In 1972, she was bestowed the honor of Enquirer Woman of the Year. More recently, Applause magazine presented Ms. Spencer with their Lifetime Achievement Award, and in 1998 she was named as a Great Living Cincinnatian by the Cincinnati Chamber of Commerce. However, Ms. Spencer's greatest rewards lie her victories, her incessant battles to change the perception of race and gender in the community. Married to Donald Spencer, businessman, public servant, educator, musician and fellow activist, the two have fought side by side to break down racial barriers. "All people should be equal." Ms. Spencer said. "There should be equality, above everything. Given equal opportunity, we all arrive at the same place."

McMicken Excellence Award

John Zureick, Chemistry

Since joining the Department of Chemistry as a financial officer for submission and maintenance and grant finances, John Zureick has established himself as a hero and a legend through his calm demeanor and efficient resolutions for faculty members in need. His knowledge of rules and regulations for dozens of different granting agencies has generated large amounts of funding for the department. His competence and professionalism have made him as one of the most highly respected staff members in the department and the college. Beyond his expertise in funding matters, Mr. Zureick is known for amazing patience and positive attitude when working with others. "John is a quiet, very professional person who seems to be able to deal with absolutely every member of the faculty and staff in a positive way," said R. Marshall Wilson, head of the Department of Chemistry. "John is a truly exceptional person without whom many aspects of our operation would be dysfunctional." In addition to his other duties, Mr. Zurieck has proved his merit by performing extensive programming for the department. He designed and implemented the Chemical Instrumentation and Computing Center, a highly interactive and multi-layered site that manages operational billing. The university-wide, web-based program effectively helped to computerize and manage the vast store of chemicals in the department and bring the university in compliance with government regulations. He also designed and updated web sites for the Cincinnati Section of the American Chemical Society and the UC Bearcats basketball team. Professor of Chemistry Bruce Ault summed up Mr. Zurieck's contributions to the department by saying, "He does his work with calm, pleasant efficiency, so that it is hard to envision a situation he could not readily handle."

McMicken Dean's Award for Distinguished Adjunct Performance

Nettina Eckert, Romance Languages & Literatures

Nettina G. Eckert has succeeded at bringing the culture and language of Italy to students on the campus of the University of Cincinnati. Her engaging and cultivating teaching style has not only captured the attention of her students, but also her colleagues. "To put it simply, Tina Eckert is the Italian program at UC. With the assistance of only one graduate teaching assistant, Tina has developed and nurtured a full, vibrant series of Italian language courses," said Lowanne Jones, head of Department of Romance Languages and Literatures. "Because of her selfless, energetic and generous devotion to her students, her colleagues, her native language and its culture, Italian in A&S is flourishing." Ms. Eckert has sole responsibility for the undergraduate program in Italian, which includes teaching four courses, the preparation of all teaching materials, coordination of all levels and classes, and recruitment. Due to her dedicated efforts, Italian classes have gained substantial increases in enrollment. The courses have attracted students from a variety of majors including many CCM students who find studying Italian essential because of their interest in opera. In addition to her teaching duties, Ms. Eckert has organized short study tours and longer summer programs in Italy. She most recently conducted the Rome-Sicily Arts Study Tour, a cooperative effort between the Department of Romance Languages and Literatures and the Department of Communication this past March. Although Ms. Eckert sets high standards for her students, they readily meet the challenge. "Mrs. Eckert is a nurturing figure – she will do her best for you, she has expectations of you, she is proud of you when you succeed and disappointed when you let her or yourself down," said Mary Beth Koch, one of Tina's students. "Such a person has the power to draw great effort out of students; these students then have the foundation to learn so very much from such a talented teacher."

Edith C. Alexander Award for Distinguished Teaching

John Drury, English & Comparative Literatures

For a poet, inspiration often takes many forms. For a student of poetry at the University of Cincinnati inspiration quite often takes one - John Drury. Through his vast knowledge and contagious enthusiasm, the professor of English and accomplished poet empowers students to reach out and achieve heir greatest potential. He successfully accomplishes the primary goal of all those who teach literature, not only to have students read assignments, but to have them take a true passion in what they are reading. "The reasons John is an excellent teacher of poetry and literary criticism are twofold: first, he is extremely well-read and imparts his knowledge with pleasure; second, John is not the sort of teacher to lord his knowledge over his students. The atmosphere he creates in the classroom is open and comfortable," said Cate Marvin, distinguished graduate student. "His classes are among the most enjoyable I have taken in my graduate career, and they are also the most difficult." As an accomplished writer and poet, Mr. Drury has garnered the respect of his student and his peers. His poetry has appeared in many prestigious periodicals including the "Paris Review", "Antioch Review" and "Southern Review." He has also written two books, "Creating Poetry" and "The Poetry Dictionary." Both students and colleagues in the English department have heralded Mr. Drury's innovative and demanding teaching style. He has been honored with awards including the University's prestigious A.B. Dolly Cohen Award for Distinguished Excellence in Teaching in 2000 and the English Department's William Boyce Award for Distinguished Teaching in 1997. Professor of English Jon Hughes expanded on Mr. Drury's success as and educator. "He devotes his attention as a teacher to all of his students, not just a select few, believing that they all deserve the best he can offer them, whatever their personal background goals may be."

McMicken Dean's Award for Distinguished Scholarship

Gail Fairhurst, Communication

Pouring over dusty books, spending hours online and reading through countless pages of data may sound daunting to some, but to Gail Fairhurst, it is simply all in a day's work. The Department of Communication professor has set herself apart through her outstanding and ground breaking research, bringing great admiration from her colleagues and her students. Scholars from prestigious universities across the country have heralded Dr. Fairhust's innovative and influential work in the field. "Dr. Fairhurst's contributions to the progress of the discipline of communication, generally, and organizational communication, specifically, are beyond significant. They have been transformational, ground breaking and exemplary," said Teresa Sabourin, head of the Department of Communication. "She produces nothing less than excellent, as evidenced by the fact that her research is cited repeatedly in the top journals, by the top scholars in the field." In addition to being an outstanding researcher, Dr. Fairhurst has distinguished herself as an excellent educator and mentor to both new faculty and graduate students. She has been honored with numerous awards for her work, most recently winning the 2003 International Communication Association Annual Conference "Top Three Paper" for Organizational Communication Division and the 2002 National Communication Association Organizational Communication Division "Best Article" Award. Dr. Fairhurst has authored or co-authored 35 journal articles and book chapters. Her book, "The Art of Framing: Managing the Language of Leadership" has become standard reading on contemporary leadership both inside and outside the classroom. "She is one of the leaders of this college," said Steven Howe, professor of psychology. "By virtue of her research, teaching, service, and commitment over the years, Gail has clearly earned a foremost position in the ranks of our faculty."

McMicken Dean's Award for Distinguished Service

Joanna Mitro, Mathematical Sciences

Working as a mathematician, professor, administrator, diplomat and department organizer may seem like a tough challenge for one person, however, Joanna Mitro handles all her roles with boundless energy and cheerful spirit bringing admiration from her colleagues as well as her students. As assistant head of the Department of Mathematics, Joanna acts to ensure the department's instructional mission is carried out effectively, and student and faculty needs are met. She has become known in the department for her professionalism and inventive ideas in finding new solutions to old problems. "What sets Joanna apart as a truly exceptional administrator is her enthusiasm to go beyond the limits of the standard job description," said Timothy J. Hodges, head of the Department of Mathematical Sciences. "We are indeed fortunate to have someone of Joanna's caliber and dedication in the department. She is an invaluable asset." Before her appointment as assistant dean in 1998, Joanna served as the graduate program director and an officer of the Association of Women's Faculty. She was a member of two AAUP Bargaining Councils as well as working for the AAUP as secretary of the nominating committee. She served as chair of the Taft Postdoctoral Committee and on the Taft Faculty Board. In addition, Joanna has served on numerous other boards and committees. "In short, Professor Mitro is a key facilitator in the college. She tirelessly finds ways to support McMicken College, her colleagues and her students," said Gigi Escoe, associate dean. "All too often enablers like Joanna are not recognized for their irreplaceable contributions."

Dean's Award for Extraordinary Contributions to McMicken College

Carl Mills, English & Comparative Literatures

During his 30-year career as a professor at the University of Cincinnati, Carl Mills has embraced one important concept; a genuine concern for students is absolutely necessary to become a successful educator. Dr. Mills has proven his commitment to students time and time again through his dedication to education, mentoring and involvement in student programs and activities. As the long time champion of undergraduate studies, he continues to garner respect from his colleagues for taking the initiative to pilot new programs and enhance studies. "Carl has been the director of undergraduate studies since I've been here and has done a terrific job of making our policies and procedures much more student friendly," said Leland S. Person, head of the Department of English. "He has been a member of the Undergraduate Council and was one of the leaders of the recent General Education initiative that we now have in place." As director of undergraduate studies, Carl has proved his outstanding skills as an administrator. Through his commitment to excellence and to his students, Dr. Mills has successfully transformed the English undergraduate program into one of the most efficiently run programs on campus, and enrollment in the major has grown significantly during his time in office. Considered one of the premier linguists in the country, Carl has written numerous reviews, articles and papers and is frequently called upon to comment in prestigious periodicals. He is the author of a book, "American Grammar: Sound, Form and Meaning", published by Peter Lang Publishing in 1990, more than two dozen articles, and some six dozen conference papers. He has been honored throughout his career with numerous awards of achievement, grants and fellowships. He has been a Fulbright Lecturer in Linguistics at Cairo University, 1982-83, and at the University of TromsØ,1977-78. His passion and personal commitment to the study of linguistics is responsible for keeping the program alive at UC. However, Carl's greatest accomplishments involve those students who feel their lives have been enriched by his extraordinary abilities as an educator and a mentor. "Carl is known for his quality and integrity," said Associate Dean, Gigi Escoe. "He is often named by students as having a positive impact on their collegiate and personal lives."

Dr. Derek E. Dunn Memorial Alumni Scholarship

Daniel Brooks, Philosophy

Most Inspiring Faculty Member: Robert Richardson

Daniel Brooks saw himself as a mediocre student until he reached the campus of the University of Cincinnati, where logic and reason literally changed his life. After taking his first philosophy course, Belief and Knowledge 101, Daniel made his decision not only to major in the field, but also to become a dedicated, exemplary student. An Honors Scholar with a 3.97 GPA, Daniel plans to diversify his philosophy degree by taking classes in his other fields of interest including psychology, astronomy, climatology and honors law. He plans to broaden his studies during the summer by studying philosophy in another country. Joseph P. Tomain, dean of the college of law, taught Daniel in an honors course, and sees the student's future as bright and filled with promise. He said, "Mr. Brooks is the type of student who will succeed in any intellectual or academic discipline. In addition to his analytic and intellectual strengths, he is a person of good character and a delight to have in the classroom." Following graduation, Daniel will forge immediately ahead to obtain his graduate degree in one of the sciences. His ultimate goal for the future is to become a tenured professor at a large university where through teaching and research, he hopes to make his contribution to the world by helping others with their future.

McMicken College of Arts & Sciences Scholarship

Grace Yllana, Political Science

Most Inspiring Faculty Member: Howard Tolley

For Grace Yllana, earning class credits and eventually landing a great career are just bonuses of attending the University of Cincinnati. The senior, majoring in political science, looks at college as a way to fulfill her passion for learning, and sees her academic life as her primary life. With a 3.83 GPA, Grace's dedication and academic excellence have earned her memberships to Alpha Lambda Delta, The Golden Key National Honor Society and The National Society of Collegiate Scholars. Grace looks upon her professors not just as teachers, but as mentors helping to guide and structure her future. Following graduation, Grace will attend law school where she plans to study advocacy in one of the fields of Constitutional Law, Civil Rights, Human Rights or International Law. She will take her LSAT exam in October, and hopes to attend law school in 2004. As a lawyer, she would like to defend the defenseless, defeat social injustice and fight for human rights. "On the basis of her work in my classes and her aspirations in the area of social injustice and human rights here and abroad, she is clearly capable of excelling as a lawyer and will undoubtedly have an impact in whatever area of law she pursues after graduating," said Dr. Laura Dudley Jenkins, assistant professor of political science. "Moreover, her remaining time in the arts and sciences will be well spent, as she has a passion for learning and drawing connections between her classes — that thrives in a liberal arts setting such as McMicken."

McMicken College of Arts & Sciences Dean's Scholarship

Ashley McKendree, Environmental Studies

Most Inspiring Faculty Member: Eric Maurer

As an environmental science major with a 3.83 GPA, Ashley spends her time both at school and working in the field, gaining knowledge through experience. She began her studies at Murray State University as an environmental engineering major, where she worked at a biological station performing water chemistry analysis, biological sampling and lab and fieldwork. In 2002, Ashley realized her desire to pursue a career as an environmental scientist and transferred to the University of Cincinnati. "Ashley's commitment to her area of study is unparalleled among our students. Consider for a moment that fact that she recently moved to a new city in a different state. Since then she obtained a position in the Biology Greenhouse, another at the Nature Center, a volunteer position in water issues and took over as the volunteer coordinator for our student group, E-SAVE," said Dr. Eric F. Maurer, professor of environmental studies. "I would call that ‘hitting the ground running' and indicative of her commitment. Ashley's academic achievements are outstanding, in fact she shares the top spot among the students in environmental studies." After earning her bachelor's degree, Ashley will immediately attend graduate school to study environmental or water science. She ultimately plans to become involved in monitoring water quality methods to ensure safe and clean ecosystems for all people in the future.

Joyce E. Yeager Scholarship

Tiffany Nash, Psychology

Most Inspiring Faculty Member: Harold Fishbein

As a child, Tiffany Nash wanted to change the world. As she got older, she realized the world is a pretty big place, and she needed to instead focus on helping individuals. Tiffany started by making the important decision to first focus on helping herself. After dropping out of high school in tenth grade, she quickly got back on track by taking her GED and applying to the University of Cincinnati. In what would have been her senior year in high school, Tiffany walked onto the campus of UC as a freshman. Today, as a focused sophomore majoring in psychology, Tiffany carries a 3.94 GPA and belongs to Phi Beta Kappa and the National Honor Society. Following graduation, she plans to attend graduate school to receive her master's and eventually her PhD. "Tiffany works very hard and is committed to getting a quality education," said Harold Fishbein, professor of psychology. "In addition to her academic work, Tiffany holds a 10 to 15 hour-per-week job, and has worked throughout her college enrollment." In the future, Tiffany would like to work with troubled children and adolescents, and sees psychology as a way to help them turn their lives around. She hopes the lives she helps to change will have the effect of ripples on a pond, so that the people she helps can in turn carry on to someday help others.

Richard E. Greenholz Scholarship

Afshan Adhami, Mathematical Sciences

Most Inspiring Faculty Member: Ajay Mehra

After arriving at the University of Cincinnati, Afshan Adhami sought to find a balance between her new found independence, her new friends, and dedication to her studies. As a junior, majoring in mathematics, with a 3.88 GPA, Afshan seems to have found that balance. In her second year at UC, Ashan has set a number of goals. She plans to strive for academic excellence and diversify her classes. She looks forward to becoming thoroughly familiar with the field of mathematics and take full advantage of the courses UC offers. Finally, she has decided to also major in secondary education in order to learn how to effectively communicate principles of mathematics to others. "I have known Afshan for a little over a year. She was a student in three quarters of my Honors Calculus course. This is a very demanding course with highly selective admission requirements. Afshan did an excellent job in all three quarters of the course," said Professor of Mathematics Charles Groetsch. "Afshan is hard working, bright, and conscientious. She is in fact one of the most organized and disciplined undergraduate students that I have seen." Following graduation, Afshan's ultimate goal is to become a high school math teacher. However, while she envisions herself communicating on the educational level, she also sees herself communicating with students on a personal level. She hopes to help to give students helpful advice and guide them through any trouble in their lives.

Isabel & Mary Neff Scholarship

P.J. Ball, Chemistry

Most Inspiring Faculty Member: William Connick

After graduating with a degree in biochemistry from UC and teaching chemistry at Glen Este High School, P.J. Ball realized a need to further her education in order to reach her ultimate goal of becoming a professor of chemistry. Enrolled in the PhD program, she is gaining in-depth understanding into chemistry as a student, teacher and researcher. "P.J. is making excellent progress as a graduate student. Her classroom performance has been as outstanding as we have come to expect from her and her experimental work is really taking off," said Thomas H. Ridgeway, professor and graduate program director, chemistry. "She has proven to be an excellent mentor of younger students and her enthusiasm for her work and science in general is infectious." During her undergraduate studies at UC, P.J. earned a number of awards for her research and academic excellence. She also competed and won numerous awards as a member of the UC Track and Cross Country Team. In her spare time, P.J. volunteered for a number of community service activities, helping those less fortunate. Currently in her second year of the PhD program, P.J. plans to fully immerse herself in her dissertation work, performing extensive experimentation and repetition. She also will to continue to mentor undergraduate researchers and assist them in designing and monitoring their projects. When she looks to the future, P.J. finds teaching others to be the most challenging aspect of her career development, but at the same time, she sees it as the most rewarding.