The Geography Department graduating class of 2016 included 67 students, 28 of whom earned the Bachelor of Arts in Geography, 25 earned the Bachelor of Arts in Geography with an emphasis in GIScience, and 14 earned the Bachelor of Science in Physical Geography.
In addition to the graduating seniors, awards were given for special achievements in the Geography major.
CHAIR’S AWARD FOR EXCELLENCE IN GEOGRAPHY
Awarded to the graduating senior who has majored in Geography and had attained the highest overall grade point average. This year’s recipient is Richard Ko. Richard has a 3.90 cumulative GPA and a 3.94 GPA in the major.
GEORGE J. DEMKO MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP
In memory of George Demko, an internationally renowned geographer, academic, and PhD scholar who believed that education could radically alter the course of one’s life. Generously made possible by the Ying family, the monetary award goes to a student graduating with a BA degree in Geography, whose academic record best captures George Demko’s passion for Geography, and has achieved a GPA over 3.50 in a diverse array of courses in physical geography, human geography, and geographic techniques, as well as participation in one or more individualized studies courses. This year’s recipient is Richard Ko.
DISTINCTION IN THE MAJOR AWARD
Distinction in the Major is awarded to students who are graduating with an overall GPA of at least 3.5, with a Geography GPA of at least 3.6,who have under taken independent study projects, research assistant-ships, and/or graduate-level studies. This year’s recipient is Sophia Macarewich.
OUTSTANDING ACHIEVEMENT IN GEOGRAPHY
Awarded to students graduating with a grade point average of at least 3.5 in upper-division geography classes or have otherwise been nominated by a faculty member for demonstrated academic performance. Recipients include: Madeline Dahm,Erica De Biasio, Charles Finkelstein-Sharpe, Henry Frisch, Richard Ko, Sophia Macarewich, Robin Miketta, Lauren Sharwood, Lyle Smith, and Dereck Sutherland.
OUTSTANDING SERVICE AWARD
The three students awarded in this category are recognized for their outstanding service and dedication to the Geography Department. They have provided stellar service to the department by helping with outreach efforts and by providing leadership for the Geography Club. The awards this year go to: Lucy Garibian, Gabe Jacobs, and Bryce Newman.
PYRENEES EXPERIENCE AWARD
Earlier this year, Geography Professor Tommy Dickey was awarded the Campus Outstanding Teaching Award. He is generously donating $500 from this award to the Geography Club. Accepting the award is the current Geography Club President, Bryce Newman.
Congratulations to the class of 2016!