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Celebrating Excellence in Education: USRA's Distinguished Undergraduate Awards

On December 10, 2024, the Universities Space Research Association (USRA) proudly announced the winners of the 2024 USRA Distinguished Undergraduate Awards. This prestigious recognition highlights the exemplary talents of undergraduate students in space science and engineering, emphasizing the importance of innovation and leadership in STEM fields.

Recognizing Emerging Talents

The USRA Distinguished Undergraduate Awards honor students who have demonstrated exceptional potential in their academic pursuits while showing a strong commitment to diversity and community outreach. These awards not only acknowledge students’ academic excellence but also their innovative problem-solving capabilities and their readiness to make significant contributions to science and engineering communities.

Dr. Jeffrey Isaacson, USRA's President and CEO, expressed the importance of these awards, saying, "The recipients inspire us with their dedication and early career accomplishments. Recognizing their achievements helps us foresee the positive impact they are destined to have in their respective fields."

Criteria for Selection

Each awardee received a scholarship of $5,000, named after influential figures who have significantly impacted USRA and their respective fields of study. The awards were made possible through generous contributions from USRA employees and other supporters. In 2024, USRA evaluated 89 applications from students across 54 universities, including two applications from international students. Among those who self-reported their demographic information, it was noted that 28% of applicants were from minority backgrounds, reflecting a commitment to promoting diversity within STEM disciplines.

Meet the Award Winners

This year, the winners of the 2024 awards represent a diverse range of academic backgrounds:

• - Grady Robbins, University of Florida: A double major in Astrophysics and Geology, awarded the Thomas R. McGetchin Memorial Scholarship for his contributions to planetary science.
• - Jonathan Ma, Cornell University: Majoring in Computer Science, he received the Frederick A. Tarantino Memorial Scholarship for his commitment to education and contributions to USRA.
• - Ayanna Mann, Howard University: Pursuing a degree in Physics with a concentration in Astrophysics, she was honored with the James B. Willett Education Memorial Scholarship.
• - Sapphira Akins, University of Hawai'i at Manoa: Majoring in Mechanical Engineering – Aerospace, she received the John R. Sevier Memorial Scholarship, recognizing her contributions to aerospace engineering.
• - Tyler Graham, Oklahoma State University: A double major in Electrical and Computer Engineering, awarded the Judith L. Pipher Memorial Scholarship for his contributions to infrared astronomy.

In addition to the winners, USRA recognized several Honorable Mentions:

• - Sophie Clark, University of Florida – Astrophysics and Physics
• - Areille Frommer, Harvard University - Astrophysics and Physics
• - Fatimata Gory, Syracuse University – Aerospace Engineering
• - Emma Kate Price, Harvard University - Mechanical Engineering
• - Savannah Still, University of Florida – Physics and Astronomy

The Selection Process

The selection process for the awards is rigorous. Applications were reviewed by representatives from the USRA Council of Institutions and professors from USRA member universities. Students were evaluated based on their stated career goals, accomplishments, leadership qualities, and their outreach efforts. Additionally, influential recommendation letters from professors and mentors were crucial in assessing each candidate's initiative, creativity, and perseverance.

The review process involved four committees (two focused on science applicants and two on engineering), which recommended finalists. Finally, the USRA President and CEO made the ultimate decision regarding the award winners.

Looking Ahead

For more information on the Distinguished Undergraduate Awards and profiles of past winners, please click here.

Founded in 1969 to advance space-related science and technology, the USRA continues its commitment to promoting educational opportunities and supporting the next generation of scientists, engineers, and innovators. You can find more details about their programs and initiatives by visiting www.usra.edu.