Waynesburg University chemistry chapter named ‘outstanding’
WAYNESBURG – Waynesburg University’s American Chemical Society student chapter was recently selected to receive the “Outstanding Chapter Award” from the American Chemical Society for the fifth consecutive year.
The award is a result of the chapter’s activities conducted during the 2012-13 academic year.
More than 400 student chapter annual activity reports were reviewed by the Society Committee on Education.
As a result of the reports, 280 awards were given, including 44 “Outstanding,” 85 “Commendable,” and 151 “Honorable Mention” awards. Waynesburg University was one of only 44 chapters selected to receive the “Outstanding Award.”
Under the direction of Dr. Robert LaCount, professor emeritus of chemistry at Waynesburg University, and Dr. Evonne Baldauff, assistant professor of chemistry and chair of the department of chemistry, the ACS student chapter was highly involved in campus and community outreach activities throughout the year, such as monthly labs for homeschooled students, a Haunted Lab open to the campus and local community and the Food Chemistry and Green Chemistry programs offered to local Girl Scout members, among many others.
Student chapter members also provide service to the department, work to foster community within the group through social events offered throughout the academic year, and participate in National Chemistry Week, including volunteering at ChemFest at the Carnegie Science Center and hosting the Periodic Table of Cupcakes on campus.
The congratulatory letter from ACS President Tom Barton reads as follows:
“Professors Evonne Baldauff and Robert LaCount, faculty advisors of the chapter, deserve special commendation.
“Few faculty members are willing to make the great commitment of time and energy that a successful chapter requires.
“Professor Baldauff and Professor LaCount’s efforts certainly represent the best in undergraduate science education and mentoring around the country.
“We extend our warmest congratulations to the students and Professors Baldauff and LaCount for setting such a fine example for other chapters and being exemplary chemistry ambassadors!”
For more information, call Baldauff at 724-852-3617.