Each year the Department of Physics recognizes outstanding undergraduate students with a variety of awards. Here are the 2015 recipients:
William Patrick McCormack and Anna Stephenson have been selected to receive the Outstanding Physics Major Award. This award is given to a physics graduate selected by a number of criteria including academic performance, contributions to the major, and potential for future success. It is the highest honor the Department of Physics can award to one of its graduates.
McCormack will be attending the University of Washington to pursue a graduate degree in particle physics.
Stephenson is enrolled in Harvard University, and plans to continue her research in condensed matter physics. She is also a recipient of a 2015 Graduate Research Fellowship from the National Science Foundation. That award provides three years of support toward her graduate education.
Mitch McNanna and Alexa Rakoski will receive the Outstanding Undergraduate Research Award. This award is based on a student’s contributions to the research within the department, and their potential for future success. It is the highest research honor the Department of Physics can award to one of its graduates.
McNanna will go to graduate school at the University of Wisconsin, and continue his studies in particle physics.
Rakoski will attend the University of Michigan, pursuing a graduate degree in condensed matter physics.
Katrina Magno will be recognized with the Paul Chagnon Award for Service. This award is given for demonstrated character and leadership, and for service to the University, the Department of Physics, and to his or her fellow physics majors.
Magno is pursuing a position in the area of science and public policy.
The awards will be presented to the graduating seniors at the Dean's Luncheon on Friday, May 15.