Published: Oct 3, 2007
The University of Tampa student affiliates chapter of the American
Chemical Society (ACS) has received a commendable award from the ACS for
its activities in undergraduate science education and in preparing the
next generation of chemical professionals.
More than 300 college
and university applications were submitted, and the ACS Committee on
Education granted only 51 commendable awards. Twenty-eight institutions
received outstanding awards, and 96 received honorable mentions. The
University of Tampa’s chapter will be honored at the 235th ACS National
Meeting in New Orleans on April 6, 2008.
The UT ACS Student
Affiliates chapter, led by UT senior Nicole Craig, has recently
experienced an unprecedented increase in student participation. Last
year the chapter participated in field trips, social events, regional
conferences and National Chemistry Week and Earth Day celebrations. It
also coordinated community outreach activities focusing on chemistry,
including “magic shows” at Tampa’s Gorrie Elementary School to inspire
science education in young students.
ACS President-Elect
Catherine T. Hunt particularly commended UT Assistant Professor John
Struss’s work in advising the student affiliates chapter.
“Few
faculty members are willing to make the great commitment of time and
energy that a successful chapter requires,” Hunt said. “Professor
Struss’s efforts certainly represent the best in undergraduate science
education and mentoring around the country.”
Struss teaches
organic chemistry and specializes in developing new methods for organic
synthesis. He is currently developing new “green” technologies in
organic chemistry.
The UT Department of Chemistry and Physics
offers students a solid foundation in the five major areas of chemistry:
analytical chemistry, biochemistry, inorganic chemistry, organic
chemistry and physical chemistry. The department also offers a new
Bachelor of Science degree in forensic science, which prepares students
for careers in forensic chemistry and forensic toxicology.