-
Overview
The ACS Division Award recognizes excellence, innovation, and leadership across the diverse disciplines of chemistry. Sponsored by the American Chemical Society’s 32 technical divisions, these awards honor individuals who contribute meaningfully to advancing chemical science and fostering community engagement. These awards also encourage divisions to develop innovative initiatives that serve members, promote collaboration, and support strategic growth within specialized fields of chemistry.
About the Sponsoring Divisions
The ACS Divisions represent focused areas within chemistry, ranging from analytical and organic chemistry to materials science and chemical education. Each division plays a vital role in supporting professionals, students, and interdisciplinary collaboration.
Eligibility Criteria
- Varies by division and award
- Typically open to students, researchers, and professionals in chemistry-related fields
- Must meet specific criteria outlined by the sponsoring division
Selection Criteria
- Excellence in research or professional achievement
- Contributions to a specific area of chemistry
- Innovation and impact within the field
- Service and engagement with the scientific community
Application / Nomination Process
- Managed individually by each ACS division
- May require nomination, application, or both
- Supporting materials may include:
- CV or resume
- Letters of recommendation
- Research or professional statements
Recent Past Awardees
- 2026 – Mihn Nguyen, Brynn Tate, Clarissa Goh, Andre Gohier, Kaylee Meyers
- 2025 – Derek Mansfield, Cooper Gangi, Mary Parker, Wilder Dalton, Alex Knorpp
- 2024 – Austin Bender, Ty Demosthenes, Jamie Covington, Vincent Ngo, Victoria Chiou
- 2023 – Nancy Sohlberg, Alison Wang, Maxwell Austin, Dawson Baxter
- 2022 – Jarom Mercer, Mallory Philliber, Charlotte Randolph, Yang Emily, Tyler Ball
- 2020 – Alayna Arnholt, Maggie Brueggemeyer, Rachell Cantrell, Allison Jacobsen
- 2021 – Matthew Baldwin, Kincade Stevenson
- 2016 – Dominic Caputo, Jonathan Greenhalgh
- 2012 – Tera Nicolo, Jenna Whippen
- 2005 – Joel Harris, Katherine Chandler
- 2004 – Elijah Gregory
- 2003 – John Gibby
- 2002 – Gretchen Domek
- 2001 – Shawn Olsen
- 2000 – Joel Miller
- 1994 – John Gladysz
- 1991 – David Grant, Joel Harris
- 1984 – Chevez Walling
- 1980 – Calvin Giddings
- 1974 – Robert Parry
- 1965 – Robert Parry
-
Overview
The American Institute of Chemists Student Award honors outstanding students in chemistry, chemical engineering, and biochemistry who demonstrate exceptional academic achievement, leadership, and professional promise.
About the Award
The AIC promotes excellence in the chemical professions and supports the advancement of chemistry through recognition of emerging talent.
Eligibility Criteria
- Undergraduate seniors, post-baccalaureate, or postdoctoral students
- Majoring in chemistry, chemical engineering, or biochemistry
- Must be nominated by faculty
Selection Criteria
- Academic excellence and demonstrated ability
- Leadership and service
- Professional promise in the chemical sciences
Application / Nomination Process
- Faculty nomination required
- Materials may include:
- Academic records
- Letters of recommendation
- Supporting documentation of achievements
Recent Past Awardees
- 2026 – Emily Dalley, Wilder Dalton
- 2025 – Mary Parker
- 2024 – Nancy Sohlberb
- 2022 – Tyler Ball
- 2020 – Allison Jacobsen
- 2019 – Yotam Ardon, Owen Cameron
- 2018 – Ben Tresco
- 2017 – Nelson Shivel
- 2016 – Joshua Visser
- 2015 – Mark O'Dair
- 2014 – Elizabeth Mari Ward
- 2013 – James Mack
- 2012 – Jenna Whippen
- 2010 – Bryce Anderson
- 2009 – Erick Westbroek
- 2008 – Ningkun Wang
- 2007 – Matthew Weinstock
- 2006 – Brandon Wilcock
- 2005 – Steve Hamilton
- 2003 – Todd Gruber
- 2002 – Darin Winn
- 2001 – Shawn Olsen, Daina Graybosch
- 1997 – Victor Cee
- 1995 – Dhileepkumar Krishnamurthy
- 1989 – Arthur Edison
- 1987 – Mary Cecelia Roslaniec
- 1954 – David Grant
-
Overview
The Armantrout Memorial Award supports undergraduate chemistry students through an endowment established by Bonnie Laura Armantrout, a 1938 alumna. These awards aim to promote student success and academic engagement in chemistry.
About the Fund
Established in 2004, the endowment reflects a long-standing commitment to supporting future generations of chemists.
Eligibility Criteria
- Undergraduate chemistry students
- Enrolled in the Department of Chemistry
Selection Criteria
- Academic performance
- Commitment to chemistry studies
- Potential for success
Application / Nomination Process
- Administered by the department
- May include:
- Academic transcripts
- Faculty input or nomination
Recent Past Awardees
- 2026 – Blue Byrne
- 2024 – Brekke Pattison
- 2023 – Malady Lorin
- 2022 – Lillee Casselman
- 2021 – Ella Habbeshaw
- 2019 – Cristina Cendejas
- 2018 – Makenzie Hullinger, Christina Steadman
- 2017 – Ellie Zurbuchen
- 2016 – Caitlin Coplan Kathyrn Jones
- 2015 – Claire Schraidt
- 2014 – Maryam Ebrahimi
- 2013 – Renee Santa Maria
- 2012 – Chelsie Conrad Kylee Tokita
- 2011 – Natalia Ruiz, Elizabeth Wittenborn
- 2010 –Annika Pecchia-Bekkum, Karianne Rencher
- 2009 – Kaitlin Schaefer
- 2008 – Rebekah Pierce
- 2007 – Elizabeth Black, JuleeAnn Sudbury
- 2006 – Adrienne Carey, Katherine Chandler
- 2005 – Elisabeth Jacques
-
Overview
The Chem Unity Mentor Award recognizes undergraduate students who provide exceptional mentorship and support through Chemistry Advising Courses, helping peers succeed academically and socially.
About the Program
Chem Unity promotes peer mentorship and community-building within the department.
Eligibility Criteria
- Active student mentors in Chemistry Advising Courses
Selection Criteria
- Outstanding mentorship and leadership
- Commitment to student success
- Positive feedback from students and advising staff
Application / Nomination Process
- Selected by the departmental advising team
- Typically based on observed performance and feedback
Recent Past Awardees
- 2026 – Joe Breslin, Maria Salazar
- 2025 – Ali Nopper, Nathan Suitor
- 2024 – Laurent Frances, Bailey Madison
- 2023 – Danny Barrera, Kobi Baker
- 2022 – Natalia Danilla, Bassel Tekarli
- 2021 – Ilakya Murugan, Blake Torrey
-
Overview
The Ferdinand A. & Ruth Anderson Peterson Scholarship supports undergraduate students in advanced chemistry courses who demonstrate financial need and strong academic dedication.
It honors the legacy of Ruth Anderson Peterson (1899–1996) and her husband, Ferdinand A. Peterson, whose lives reflected a strong commitment to education, community service, and the University of Utah.
Ruth Anderson Peterson was born in Ephraim, Utah, and pursued her academic interests with distinction, earning a degree in pharmacy from the University of Utah after beginning her studies at Snow College. She later continued graduate work in Logan, Utah. Throughout her life, she maintained a deep connection to the University and to student success, exemplified by her leadership roles in organizations such as the University of Utah Mothers Club and the Salt Lake Mothers Club.
Ruth and Ferdinand Peterson shared a lifelong dedication to family, faith, and community. Ruth was especially active in service through her church and local volunteer programs, reflecting values of mentorship and support that are central to the mission of higher education.
This scholarship commemorates their enduring belief in the power of education and supports students pursuing studies in chemistry at the University of Utah, helping to foster the next generation of scientists and scholars.
Eligibility Criteria
- Undergraduate chemistry students
- Enrolled in advanced chemistry coursework
- Demonstrated financial need
Selection Criteria
- Academic achievement
- Commitment to chemistry
- Financial need
Application Process
- Departmental application
- May include:
- Financial aid documentation
- Academic records
Recent Past Awardees
- 2026 – Ricardo Avendano Quintero
- 2025 – Blue Byrne, Parker Christensen
- 2024 – Kesaia Akau, Jessica Dickinson
- 2023 – Wilder Dalton
- 2022 – Clara Lindley
- 2021 – Tate Isom, Gabrielle Desjardins
- 2020 – Christopher Nielson, Jose Rivera
- 2019 – Ryan Jannoud
- 2018 – Kason Glover
- 2016 – Jordan Franchina
- 2015 – Jeffery DeGrauw
- 2013 – Sang Oh, Vishnu Reddy
- 2012 – Steven Rose
-
Overview
The Gurmail Gill Legacy Scholarship was established by the Gill family to honor Gurmail Gill’s life, her contributions to the university, and her deep love of learning.An endowed award within the Department of Chemistry, the scholarship provides ongoing support to students pursuing studies in chemistry, reflecting her belief in education and perseverance.
Gurmail Gill herself was a dedicated student and longtime staff member at the university, where she earned a degree in chemistry and spent decades contributing to research and patient care, leaving a lasting impact on the campus community.
In addition to the scholarship, a commemorative bench outside the Chemistry building stands as a tribute to her memory, offering a space for reflection and symbolizing her enduring presence at the university. Together, the scholarship and memorial continue to inspire students and honor her legacy of curiosity, compassion, and commitment to learning.
Eligibility Criteria
- Undergraduate chemistry students
Selection Criteria
- Academic achievement
- Commitment to chemistry
Application Process
- Departmental application
- May include:
- Academic records
Recent Past Awardees
- 2026 – Valerie Cuevas
- 2025 – Alana Field
- 2024 – Nyrvanah Crockett
- 2018 – Valeria Delgadillo
-
Overview
The Henry White Research Scholarship was established to honor Professor Henry S. White, a world-renowned electrochemist whose pioneering research has transformed our understanding of nanoscale electrochemical processes. For more than 30 years at the University of Utah, he has built a vibrant research program that bridges analytical, biological, physical, and materials chemistry, leading to innovations in drug delivery, biosensing, and nanotechnology. As a former dean of the College of Science and chair of the Department of Chemistry, and more recently, as the recipient of the 2025 University of Utah’s Rosenblatt Prize for Excellence, Professor White has been a tireless advocate for student success, credited with reshaping general chemistry education and mentoring generations of scientists.
About Henry White
A leading figure in electrochemistry, White is best known for exploring how electrical processes behave at incredibly small (nanoscale) dimensions, according to distinguished professor of chemistry Cynthia Burrows. His work has shed light on how electric fields at surfaces affect the behavior of molecules attached to those surfaces, discoveries that are important for many devices from sensors to batteries.“Henry excels in every category of our profession, as an educator and a scholar, and as a leader and colleague,” wrote Burrows, herself the 2019 Rosenblatt laureate, in her letter of nomination. “In his 32 years at the U, he has grown a vibrant research program in experimental and theoretical electrochemistry that has impacted diverse areas in biological, physical, and materials chemistry.”
White helped develop a fundamental theory of how molecules move and interact with electric fields near tiny electrodes, known as ultramicroelectrodes. These insights have practical uses in chemical detection and nanotechnology. One of the most exciting innovations from his lab is a patented method to analyze single DNA molecules using protein-based channels placed in glass nanopore membranes, essentially building a microscopic tool for studying genetic material at the molecular level.
“His group has made major contributions to many other areas of electrochemistry that include the application of magnetic fields in electrochemistry, unraveling the mechanism of electro-osmotic transport of drugs through human skin, breakdown of nanometer thick oxide films in corrosive environments, and the characterization of gas ‘nanobubbles,’” Burrows wrote.
White completed his doctorate in 1983 at the University of Texas and worked for nearly a decade at the University of Minnesota as a professor of chemical engineering and materials science. He joined the U’s chemistry faculty in 1993, serving as department chair from 2007 to 2013 and as dean of the College of Science from 2014 to 2019.
“The five years of Henry’s leadership as dean were a transformative period for the College,” wrote Peter Trapa, vice provost and senior dean of the Colleges and Schools of Liberal Arts and Sciences, in a letter of support for White’s nomination. “During this time, the College advanced its world-class research reputation; significantly expanded its educational mission; completely reimagined its fundraising efforts; and positioned itself to grow and sustain these advances for many years to come.”
White is credited with launching the college’s Science Research Initiative, which provides research opportunities to undergraduates and has since grown to 500 students. As department chair, White implemented major changes in the general chemistry program, requiring that only the top educators teach first-year undergraduate courses.
White himself taught general chemistry many times over the course of his U tenure. More than 40 graduate students have been mentored by White, who also supervised more than 60 research projects by undergraduates in chemistry, materials science, and chemical engineering.
His research, which touches every corner of electrochemistry, has been funded by both industry and a wide range of federal agencies, including Office of Naval Research, the Defense Advanced Research Project Agency, the National Institutes of Health and the National Science Foundation.
Electrochemists study the chemical transformations that occur when electrons are added to molecules in solution, producing results that are advancing energy production and storage. During White’s tenure, the field has gone from relative obscurity to prominence, especially for emerging energy technologies, according to George Whitesides, a university research professor of chemistry at Harvard.
“Even though there is enormous interest in the subject now, very few people really understand it, or the elementary processes it involves. Henry is one of the few who does. He has the true expert’s intuition about the processes that can occur, and the ones that don’t,” Whitesides wrote. “His skill in the science is enormously useful in guiding others who are primarily developing technology or extending applications, and he has assumed the role of arbiter of the “final word” in electrochemical arguments.”
Every major prize available to electrochemists has landed on White, most recently the 2015 Allen J. Bard Award of the Electrochemical Society, for which he was the inaugural recipient. In 2019, the U named him the John A. Widstoe Presidential Endowed Chair of Chemistry, but he later declined to renew the appointment so that it could be offered to a young rising star in the Department of Chemistry.
White helped raise millions in private donations to fund new endowed chairs and construct the Thatcher Building for Biological and Biophysical Chemistry and the Crocker Science Center, both completed under his watch. His initiatives helped diversify the chemistry faculty.
“The accomplishments described above are lasting contributions that will impact the College for generations and are testament to Henry’s exceptional ability as an administrator,” Trapa wrote. “In fact, it is fair to say that he probably did more to advance the dual missions of research and education than anyone who came before him in the history of the College.”
Several faculty members in the Department of Chemistry have been honored with the Rosenblad Prize, underscoring the department’s tradition of excellence: Cynthia J. Burrows (2019), Peter B. Armentrout (2011), Jack Simons (2005), C. Dale Poulter (1999), Peter J. Stang (1995) and David M. Grant (1987).
Eligibility Criteria
- Undergraduate or graduate students engaged in research
Selection Criteria
- Research excellence and innovation
- Commitment to scientific inquiry
- Faculty mentorship engagement
Application Process
- May include:
- Research proposal
- Faculty recommendation
- Academic record
Recent Past Awardees
- 2026 – Hans Geist, Nora Langer, Philip Olesinski, Lucas Payne, Madi Salzman, Ashley Wright
-
Overview
The Honors in Chemistry Award at the University of Utah recognizes outstanding undergraduate students who demonstrate exceptional academic achievement, research excellence, and meaningful contributions to the Department of Chemistry. This award highlights students who exemplify dedication to both coursework and scientific inquiry.
About the Award
As part of the University Honors program, this distinction celebrates students who successfully complete an Honors Degree and thesis, reflecting the department’s strong commitment to undergraduate research and academic excellence.
Eligibility Criteria
- Undergraduate students majoring in chemistry
- Completion of a University Honors Degree
- Successful completion of an Honors thesis
- Must be in good academic standing
Selection Criteria
- Exceptional academic performance in chemistry coursework
- Quality, originality, and rigor of Honors thesis research
- Contributions to the department and scientific community
- Demonstrated commitment to scholarly excellence
Application / Nomination Process
- Typically awarded upon successful completion of Honors program requirements
- Departmental review of academic records and thesis work
- Supporting materials may include:
- Honors thesis
- Faculty evaluations
- Academic transcript
Recent Past Awardees
- 2026 – William C.H. Bartlett; Owen Bascomb; Ella Bleak; Wilder Dalton; Diego Delgado; Zoie Frisby; Clarissa Goh; Safiya Hamud; Nathan Jackson; Julia Rzepecka; Brynn Tate; Ady Witzel
- 2025 – Johan Bennett; Tilly Dillon; Abigail Mason; Delaney Miller; Rachel Muhlestein; Ainsley Nystrom; Michelle Phan; Maddox Riewald; Michael Romero; Jonah Simmons; Mayson Smith; Helen Wang; Eleanor Wachtel
- 2024 – Austin Bender; Arnel Besic; Anneke Enquist; Julia Clista Galecki; Marina Gerton; Jack Hindley; Travis Martinez; Victoria Medvedeva; Eva Quintus-Bosz; CJ Craig Reid; Nancy Sohlberg
- 2023 – Maxwell Austin; Yexalen Barrera-Casas; Beck Bassett; Lillee Casselman; Mina Done; Dhruvan Gopinath; Mason Hansen; Nathan Iverson; Kevin Lutz; Emily Major; Lauren Montgomery; Catherine Petersen; Brenden Roberts; Alison Wang
- 2022 – Austin Bender; Arnel Besic; Anneke Enquist; Julia Clista Galecki; Marina Gerton; Jack Hindley; Travis Martinez; Victoria Medvedeva; Eva Quintus-Bosz; CJ Craig Reid; Nancy Sohlberg
- 2021 – Eshan Narasipura; Victoria Ding; Shelby Galinat; Rose Godfrey; Isaac Guynn; Jenny Ngo; Charlotte Randolph; Alice Snelling; Ella Spurlock; Harini Srinivasan; Emily Yang
- 2020 – Maggie Brueggemeyer; Rachel Cantrell; Calder Duffin; Ed Hurtado; Kathryn Jones; Sage Mack; Jessie Montgomery; Nick Olsen; Rachel Payne; Julia Peek; Wallis Scholl; Siani Weston; Chase Zagorec-Marks
- 2019 – Elizabeth Fine; Cameron Owen; Micah Ballif; Caitlin Coplan; Edwardo Hurtado; Heather Cummins; Jade Larsen; Julia Zhu
-
Overview
The Kodak Educational Teaching Fellows Award recognizes undergraduate students who demonstrate exceptional teaching support, leadership, and dedication to improving science education.
Eligibility Criteria
- Undergraduate students involved in teaching or instructional support
Selection Criteria
- Teaching effectiveness
- Leadership and initiative
- Contributions to student learning
Application Process
- Faculty nomination or departmental selection
- Supporting materials may include:
- Teaching evaluations
- Letters of recommendation
Recent Past Awardees
- 2026 – Kai Bruno, Isaac Graham, Sofia Perez, Samantha Stinson, Dakota Stringham, Sachiye Tyujin-Sung, Keri Vance
2025 — Eeshan Chowdhary, Orion Harmon, Adithi Kamath, Hakan Kariparduc, Ethan Mouser, Elizabeth Schilling, Samuel Young, Alex Yount - 2024 — Daylen Anzures, Kierra Forthman, Zera Gonzalez, Sakthivel Jayakumar, Logan Klar, Delaney Miller
- 2023 — Kesaia Akau, Alex Balinger, Joshua Bilsky, Dion Copoulos, Jackson Elowitt, Sanaz Habibi, Emma Hale, Thomas Kawagoe, Silvia Leon-Moreno, Delaney Miller, Jake Pedigo, Jesus Sandres, Olivia Schmitz, Elena Sjoblom, Anna Tang, Pierce Wratten
- 2022 – Kitsel Lusted, Kaitlin Marler
- 2013 – Rebekah Edwards, Kirsten Merrett, Annika Pecchia-Bekkum, Hilary Stevens
-
Overview
The Kodak Service Award recognizes exceptional dedication to service, leadership, and outreach within the University of Utah’s American Chemical Society (ACS) Student Affiliates Chapter. This award honors students who actively contribute to strengthening the connection between chemistry and the broader community through engagement, education, and outreach initiatives.
About the Award
Selected in consultation with faculty advisors, this award reflects a commitment to promoting chemistry beyond the classroom. Recipients play a vital role in inspiring curiosity, supporting community engagement, and enhancing the visibility and impact of the chemical sciences.
Eligibility Criteria
- Active members of the ACS Student Affiliates Chapter
- Undergraduate students in chemistry or related disciplines
- Demonstrated participation in outreach and service activities
- Must be in good academic standing
Selection Criteria
- Outstanding service and leadership within the ACS chapter
- Contributions to chemistry outreach and community engagement
- Initiative in promoting scientific education
- Demonstrated impact on peers and the broader community
Application / Nomination Process
- Selected in consultation with ACS faculty advisors
- May involve nomination or internal review process
- Supporting materials may include:
- Record of service and outreach activities
- Letters of recommendation
- Personal statement reflecting commitment to service and leadership
Recent Past Awardees
- 2026 – Kai Bruno, Isaac Graham, Sofia Perez, Samantha Stinson, Dakota Stringham, Sachiye Tyujin-Sung, Keri Vance
- 2025 – Kierra Forthman, Zera Gonzales, Taylor Hatch, Delaney Miller, Sachiye Ryujin-Sung, Samantha Stinson
- 2022 – Tyler Ball, Rose Godfrey, Ella Spurlock
-
Overview
The Laya F. Kesner Award honors undergraduate students who demonstrate strong academic achievement and meaningful service to the Department of Chemistry.
About Laya F. Kesner
Professor Laya Kesner started as a graduate student at Utah in 1967 and completed a Ph.D. working on the then-new method of field-flow fractionation under the direction of Professor J. Calvin Giddings in 1974.
After a postdoctoral position in Chemical Engineering with Dr. Richard H. Boyd and several different part-time jobs, Kesner began teaching Chemistry and AP Chemistry at Rowland Hall-St. Mark’s School. When a full-time teaching position opened in the Department of Chemistry, Kesner was selected for the position and came to work for the Department in 1994.
Laya Kesner taught a wide variety of classes including General Chemistry II, Environmental Chemistry, Pre-nursing Chemistry, and Quantitative Analysis. She has taught thousands of undergraduates over two decades.
One of those students was Dr. Rebecca Uhlig. Dr. Uhlig wanted to show her appreciation for her association with Kesner as she prepared to become a Doctor of Optometry.
Dr. Uhlig created the Laya Kesner Awards, presented annually at the end-of-the-year Department Awards Ceremony to deserving undergraduate chemistry students who enhanced the learning climate in the Department of Chemistry.
Besides being known for her classroom work, Kesner is also renowned for dressing up as a witch on Halloween. Her office door was decorated with cartoons and images of witches, many given to her by students.
The costume started when Kesner had a job at University Hospital. None of the lab coats were small enough for Kesner, who is petite, so a new one was ordered. When it arrived, to her surprise, it was a bright hunter’s orange. So, Kesner made the most of it by wearing the lab coat with a black dress and a cheap witch’s hat that Halloween. After a few years, her husband enhanced the costume by presenting her with a sturdier Professor McGonagall witch’s hat.
Quoting from her obituary “Laya was dedicated to education and served as a role model for women in the sciences and Jewish studies. She loved travelling with her family, attending the theatre, and visiting art museums. Laya was an excellent cook, who was known for her hospitality and dedication to joyfully celebrating Jewish holidays.”
Dr. Rebecca Uhlig, University of Utah alumna, and Laya’s friend, wrote on 12/02/2022:
“Laya became a friend & mentor to me as I started on the path to become a doctor in a time & place that was not exactly welcoming to women. As the solo female PhD student in her class and many years as the solo female faculty on the U’s Chemistry Dept, she was a beacon of living proof women indeed belonged. She once confided to me that my father was her only PhD classmate who would share notes with & support her if she was absent to care for her baby back then. So when I turned up in her Intro to Chem accelerated course one summer ~27 YEARS later, she recognized my surname and offered support. She was genuinely gracious & generous with her time if ANY student would just ask.
“In gratitude, I funded the Laya Kesner Award at the U’s Chemistry dept, to ensure for once a mentor would be thanked & remembered for their kindness & time spent helping students. I hope it allows a continuation of the chain of kindness started by my father & Laya so many years ago when they were students, and reminds us all to do an act of kindness that can uplift someone and outlast our (relatively) short lives on this earth. Thank you again, Laya.”
Eligibility Criteria
- Undergraduate chemistry students
Selection Criteria
- Academic excellence
- Service to the department
- Commitment to student success
Application Process
- Selected by the Chemistry Awards Committee
Recent Past Awardees
- 2026 – Katelynn Best, Elisabeth Muhlestein, Kass Johnson, Jules Pan
- 2025 – Clarissa Goh, Derek Mansfield, Rune Walkingshaw
- 2024 – Uziel Gonzalez, Hakan Kariparduc, Ethan Klobutcher, Annie Thompson
- 2023 – Andrew Larkin, Adam Montgomery, Olivia Schmitz
- 2022 – Maxwell Austin, Gabrielle Desjardins, Catherine Petersen, Alison Wang
- 2019 – Aisha Zuiter
- 2018 – Erin Johnson, Mckayla Pham, Hector Torres
- 2017 – Jackson Bladen, Shirley Luo, Mackenzie Pavich, Aryana Vadipour
- 2016 – Tanner Morris, Hakyung Yeo, Sang Oh
- 2015 – Emily Kirkeby, Taylor Gemperline, Renee Santa Maria
- 2014 – Samantha Crouch, Jenine Rogel, Sarah Stillman, Agnes Szarzec, Anika Wickes, Kristen Whiteford
- 2013 – Julianne Hatt, Michael Larsen, Agnieszka Szarzec, Christopher Larios, Valerie Martin, Laura Wight
- 2012 – Sei Im Lee, Joshua Southwick
- 2011 – Chelsie Conrad, Michael Minson, Elizabeth Writtenborn
- 2010 – Alyssia Lambert, Chelsea Painter, Amy (Ya-Hsuan) Yeh
- 2009 – Erika Aoyama, Matthew Hess, Elisabeth Orth, Zinovii Abolnik, Brice Benson, Yimin Zhao
-
Overview
The Leon Watters Memorial Award recognizes junior-level chemistry majors who demonstrate scholastic excellence and strong potential for future success.
Eligibility Criteria
- Junior chemistry majors
Selection Criteria
- Academic performance
- Promise in the field
Application Process
- Departmental selection
Recent Past Awardees
- 2026 – Joseph Biesinger; Kai Bruno; Clarissa Goh; Andy Jeong; Lylli Rager; Grace Rasmuson; Megan Selmer; Zera Gonzalez; Delaney Miller; Sakthivel Jayakumar; Logan Klar; Daylen Anzures, Kierra Forthman
- 2025 – Ella Bleak; Henry Boutelle; Deevya Garal; Calvin Kern; Alex Knorpp; Kaylee Meyers; Farah Sadat
- 2024 – Georgia Brach; Victoria Chiou; AJ Andrew Giles; Kevin Liebetrau; Abigail Mason; Mary Alice Parker; Maddox Riewald; Farah Sadat
- 2023 – Jamie Covington; Hana Fauver; AJ Giles; Rose Godfrey; Uziel Gonzalez; Alyssa Harpring; James Lawton; Bhakta Rahhika; Maran Sardoni; Nancy Sohlberg
- 2022 – Georgia Brach; Victoria Chiou; AJ Andrew Giles; Kevin Liebetrau; Abigail Mason; Mary Alice Parker; Maddox Riewald; Farah Sadat
- 2021 – Max Austin; Lillee Casselman; Evan Cutler; Victoria Medvedeva; Alison Wang; Rachel Whipple; Pierce Wratten
- 2020 – James Carrington; Brayden Fairbourn; Kincade Stevenson; Aryana Vadipour
- 2019 – Erika Feten; Austin Mineer
- 2018 – Stephanie Aswad, Min Htet (Jimmy) Kyaw, Ryan Johnson, Chase Zagorec-Marks, Jackson Geary
- 2017 – Parley Bates, Taylor Gemperline, Jacob Knight, Wenyuan Li, Gabriel McDonald, Christopher Stringham, Ben Tresco
- 2016 – Amanda Bischoff, Zane Blank, Philippe David, Isaac Moldowin, Sanh Oh, Nelson Shivel, Sean Strain, William Tang, Wyatt Zagoree-Marks
- 2015 – Scott Eldredge, Jonathan Greenhalgh, Nathan Odendahl, Quang Tran
- 2014 – Taylor Duffin, William Gleich, Christina Hughes, Mark O'Dair, Mckenna Oney, Chad Service
- 2013 – Amanda Bischoff, Trevor Erickson, Natascha Knowlton, Timothy Luger
- 2012 – Brandon Bacon, Scott Brewster, Alexander Burckle, James Mack, Annika Becchia-Bekkum
- 2011 – Brian Gordon; Christina Hughes; Nurul Shazana; Mohammad Jamaal; Michael Kutschke; John Lackey; Hannah Tredway
- 2010 – Andrew Bullock, David Hamilton, Harrison Jones, Kaitlin Schaefer, Benjamin Yonkee, Jenna Whippen
- 2009 – Joseph Labrum, Trevor Feagin, Noah Kastelowitz, Kristen Lilja, Karisa Snow, Shane Verhoef
- 2008 – Safia Ahmed, Kevin Chung, Wesley Gaschler, Kristen Lilja, Nitasha Newbold, Erick Westbroek
- 2007 – Safia Ahmed, Adrienne Carey, Jamie Doi, Sevann Helo, Nathan Walton
- 2006 – Cody Farrner, Charles Harmon, Joseph Marchese, William McKean, Jessica Pauley, Jessica Procter, Matthew Weinstock
- 2005 – Carol A. Bills, Tom Engar, Bryce Peterson, Anna Sprague, Kara Stowers, Judy Vu
- 2004 – Eric Cannon, Amy Heaton, Patrick Hullett, Philip Jankovich, Shannton Tew, Judy Vu
- 2003 – Erin Allen, Nathan Faulkner, Michele Bullough, John Gibby, Nathan Davis, Shawn Olsen
- 2002 – Gretchen Domek, Todd Gruber, Hung Nguyen, Shawn Olsen, Adam Smith
- 2001 – Brett Gourley, Neil Huefner, Matthew M. Miller, Anna Mulgrew, Christ Sjostrom, David W. Small
- 2000 – Garth Garrison, Anna Mulgrew, Derrick Holt, Jake Veigel
- 1999 – Nathan Hulse, Reid Huefner, Julianna Taylor
- 1998 – Jeremy may, Jon Miller, Matthew Morrel, Rustin Ross
- 1997 – Daniel Bodrero, Abby Bird, Sidney Elmer, Carolyn Mannis, Maryann Miles
- 1989 – Troy Andreasen, Hamid Arabshahi, Curtis Coulam, Kevin Crellin, Angelo Kandas, Gordon Smith, Christopher Willoughby, Patrick Zimmerman
- 1987 – Dane J. Dickson, Mark J. Edlund, Eric P. Kelson, Cheng Tu
-
Overview
The Lloyd E. Malm Memorial Award honor outstanding students in first-year chemistry courses, recognizing exceptional academic performance early in their academic careers.
Eligibility Criteria
- Students enrolled in introductory chemistry courses
Selection Criteria
- Academic excellence
- Strong foundational understanding
Application Process
- Faculty recommendation
Recent Past Awardees
- 2026 – Malia Adams; Lucy Flaming; Zach Hammer; Peter John; Ian Jake Kim; Christian Leve; Andy Lin; Brady Schultz
- 2025 – Garrett Joseph Archer; Samantha Golson; Mark Gonzalez; Kaiyan Jiang; Gracelyn Lowe; Brielle Newell; Thanh Nhan Nguyen; Tanner Partridge; Mary Peterson; Keilah Van Hees
- 2024 – Lademi Adepoju; Lexi Bohman; Harold Chen; Caleb Mason; Kalina Manova; Taylor Melchior; Emily Norton; Katarina Prill; Annika Thorstensen; Anneke Van Regenmorter
- 2023 – Nehal Bakshi; Navneet Brar; Marcus Castro; Malia McCann; Ritika Nayan; Eron Powell; Jezra Simmons
- 2022 – Lademi Adepoju; Lexi Bohman; Harold Chen; Caleb Mason; Kalina Manova; Taylor Melchior; Emily Norton; Katarina Prill; Annika Thorstensen; Anneke Van Regenmorter
- 2021 – Benjamin Creer; Bailee Fiedel; Kylee Geis; Joseph Nagengast; Nehemiah Spinks; Aaris Wood
- 2020 – Lillee Casselman; Connor Elggren; Kevin Lutz; Warren McCarthy; Chris McNerney; Grace Moore
- 2019 – Tyler Ball; Ashley Covington; Taylor Williams; Braydon Black; Lukas Wagner; Emily Yang
- 2018 – Bryce Clough; David Hall; Josiah Lacombe; Travis Seamons; Ali Sial; Ryan Tatton
- 2017 – James Barker; Jordan Hendriksen, Camille Lewandowski, Stanley Memmott; Kalena Peterson; Mckayla Pham; Libbey Salvo; Brandon Shreeve; Bryce Young
- 2016 – Joseph Blanton; Tyler Crum; Rachel Jaggi; Cassidy Jennings; Han Le Kristin Rominger
- 2015 – Thomas Buchmiller; Heilly Galvez; Bradley Johnson; Emily Kam; Aini Mohd Mokhdhari; Minh Pham; Sepehr Sebghati; Jingzhou Zhang
- 2014 – Ben Berger; Skyler Edvik; Austin Green; Anthony Richardson; Nicole Russell; Tanner Wood
- 2013 – Matthew Hadley Luyi Huang; Emily Lambert Tyler Mills; Rachel Petragallo Christian Robert; Lana Smith
- 2012 – Andrew Andreasen; Rosalie Griffin; Jordan Leone; Lewis Tam; Ryan Boschert; Jianhuai Hu; Alexander Marchese; Yeou Hui Wong
- 2011 – Brian Gordon; Christina Hughes; Nurul Shazana; Mohammad Jamaal; Michael Kutschke; John Lackey; Hannah Tredway
- 2010 – Michael Angerbauer; Isaiah Davies E; Joshua Freer Ka Chon (Jeff) Lei; Tera Nicolo Darien Shapiro; Tessora Young
- 2009 – Satya Bellamkonda; Ellisa Brandt; Sven Hoge; Justin Marshall; Alexandrea Nichols; Eric Peterson; Andrew Van Hook; Jenna Whippen
- 2008 – Kathryn Arthur; Tyrel Einfeldt; Tanner Fullmer Steven Rose; Emily Sanchez; Ruby Xia
- 2007 – Dong Hwi Bae; Tyler Bradshaw; Julie Dyer; Matthew Farr; Courtney Gonzalez; Meesha Last; Kathryn Massberg; Jonathan Penfield
- 2006 – Stephanie Baird; David Hamilton; Melissa Hanson; Harmony Hofstetter; Matt Lindsey; Christian Pecchia-Bekkum
- 2005 – Nitasha Bennet; James Brewster; Jamie Doi; Joshua B. Holt; Jeffrey Tingey
- 2004 – Michael Cooper; Sara Elliot; Tony Kaufmann; Josep Marchese; John Peterson; Keilen Peterson
- 2003 – Daniel Gillins; Kamala Schelling; Nathan Holman; Tyler Sorensen; Emery Pramann; Jefferey Richardson; Chung Yuen
- 2002 – Russell Condie Tyler Evans; Sanaz Ghaffarian Patrick Hullett; John Moore Curtis Olsen
- 2001 – Rebecca Boldrin, Robert E. Cantwell; Elaina Gatrell; Quynhhoa Nguyen; Benjamin Wall; Jordan Wright
- 2000 – Michelle Bullough; Adam Smith; Elena Dinh; Brenna Van Frank; Abigail Moore; Jeffrey Winterton; Shawen Olsen
- 1999 – Amanda Cundick; Nathan Dahle; Heather Ellsworth; Jenifer Forbush; Shino Magaki; Candace Park
- 1998 Kale Bodily; Barton Carter; Joshia Eckman; Michael Gregory; Amelia Markeson; Matthew Simmons
- 1997 – Brienne Allan; Deborah Barlow; Michael Crane; Cathy Yen H. Dang; Dwaine Holcomb; K. Chad Lambourne; Pamela Mouser; Oliva J. Wang
- 1989 – David Blackwell; Amanda Ebright; Paul Kay; Samantha Lee; Christopher Miller
- 1987 – George W. Brown; John C. Dallon; Greg M. Pavich; Sydney C. Piercey; Charles R. Tolle; Stacey S. Yoshimoto
-
Overview
The Mack Thomas Rozelle Scholarship supports first-year chemistry students who show strong academic performance and high potential for success in the field.
Eligibility Criteria
- First-year undergraduate chemistry students
Selection Criteria
- Academic excellence
- Demonstrated potential in chemistry
Application Process
- Departmental review
Recent Past Awardees
- 2026 – Caroline Connolly; Parker Florence; Nina Liu; Cole Malvick; Sofia Moretti; Aaboli Samant; James Steele; Calvin Stevenson
- 2025 – Jill Battista; Joe Breslin III; Kyle Dzmil; Alex Gradev; Emmalyn Jacobs; Emily Norton; Katherine Osterstock
- 2024 – Clarissa Goh; Derek Mansfield; Anna Page; Anika Tindall
- 2023 – Fiedel Bailee; Grace Bean; Emily Dalley; Maddox Riewald; Kristen Rye; Morgan Smoot
- 2022 – Clarissa Goh; Derek Mansfield; Anna Page; Anika Tindall
- 2021 – Hiroshi Aoki; Jack Hindley; Sonya Kuzminski; Andrew Larkin; Kayla Rebentisch; Maisy Webb
- 2020 – Alayna Arnholt; Tyler Ball; Shelby Galinat; Samantha Kraus; Jarom Mercer; Jose Rivera; Kincade Stevenson; Joshua Walker; Emily Yang
- 2019 – Lydia Fries; Samantha Kraus; Harper Mack; Allison Jacobsen; Kiana Luu; Samantha Spencer
- 2018 – Kayla Blickensderfer; Rachel Cantrell; Ivy Christofferson; Caitlin Coplan; Kason Glover; Kade Loveridge; Riley Pence Ana Rosas Aryana Vadipour
- 2017 – Hodan Abdi; Philippe David; Shelby Harris; Morgan Rivera; Christian Wiscombe; Ryan Johnson; Jimmy Kyaw
- 2016 – Thanakorn Baker; Matthew Baldwin; Emily Kirkeby; Nathaniel Quigley; Nicholas Thiros; Benjamin Tresco; Katy Webb
- 2015 – Benjamin Banowsky; Zane Blank; Sarah Clair; Taylor Gemperline; Evan Hurlow; Sean Strain
- 2014 – Lauren Alai; Jason Corless; Scott Eldredge; Judah Evangelista; Angela Moore; Daniel Powell; Joshua Visser
- 2013 – Ashley Alldredge; Ryan Boschert; Maryam Ebrahimi; Alexandra Kent; Mark O'Dair; F. Curtis Sudbury
- 2012 – Amanda Bischoff; Nicholas Farral; Jeongmin Hwang; Mark Khoury; Tera Nicolo
- 2011 – Scott Brewster; Stephen Gren; Darien Shapiro; Emily Thomas; Monica Thomas; Kimberly Uchida
- 2010 – Scott Allen; Kara Arnold; Brandon Bacon; Sara Sanders; Nirmal Shah; Kellie Woodfield
- 2009 – Thomas Edawrds; Zachary Fox; David Hamilton; Karianne Rencher; Emmeline Tran; Jessica Wickes
- 2008 – Dong Hwi Bae; Gregory Gabbott; Timothy Mulvihill; Jonathan Penfield; Karisa Snow
- 2007 – Peter Behnke; Kevin Chung; Michael Quist; Christian Pecchia-Bekkum; Shane Verhoef; Erick Westbroek
- 2006 – Elizabeth Black; Wesley Gaschler; Safia Ahmed; Yimin Zhao
- 2005 – Annie Chen; Emily Clegg; Thuyanh Do; Joseph Marchese; Katherine E. Poruk; Matthew T. Weinstock
- 2004 – Annie Chen; Jeff Horn; Louis Ross; Kara Stowers; Brandon Wilcock
- 2003 – Sanaz Ghaffarian; Pat Hullett; Elijah Gregory; Steve Hamilton; Amy Heaton; Judy Vu
- 2002 – Lisa Handy; John Gibby; Marc Farnworth; Eric Peterson; Erin Allen
- 2001 – Hung Nguyen; Shawn Olsen; Jacob Pugsley; Adam Smith
- 2000 – Candice Park; Annette Pollington; Darin Winn
- 1999 – Brooke Shiley; Marc Farnsworth
- 1998 – Steve Brown; Cathy Y. H. Dang; Olivia J. Wang
- 1997 – Ben Morrow; Jeremy May; Ben Meibos; Matt Morell; Rustin Ross
- 1989 – Joseph Brown; Gary Diamond; Dennis Kim; Ronald Madsen; Michael Martineau
- 1987 – Cory Bringhurst; Donald C. Grove; Chris Lee; Nhuan Van Luong; Richard K. Olsen; Leland W. Pack; Darryl D. Spencer
-
Overview
The Melvin C. Cannon Scholarship supports first-year chemistry students who show strong academic performance and high potential for success.
Eligibility Criteria
- First-year undergraduate chemistry students
Selection Criteria
- Academic achievement
- Promise in chemistry
Application Process
- Departmental review
Recent Past Awardees
- 2026 – Giovanna Garcia
- 2025 – Caroline Connolly; Neva McClory
- 2024 – Katherine Osterstock; Sofia Perez
- 2023 – Vincent Ngo
- 2022 – Katherine Osterstock; Sofia Perez
- 2021 – Eleanor Wachtel
- 2020 – ?
- 2019 – Maggie Brueggemeyer
- 2018 – Kelsey Lassen
- 2017 – Mitchell Wilson
- 2016 – Gabriel McDonald
- 2015 – Daniel Kurek
- 2013 – Shwan Javdan
- 2011 – Nicholas Farrall
- 2010 – Natascha Knowlton
-
Overview
The Paul & Darice Koo Scholarship provides financial support to a high-achieving undergraduate student pursuing a bachelor’s degree, helping to cover tuition costs.
Eligibility Criteria
- Undergraduate students pursuing a bachelor’s degree
- Must meet English proficiency requirements (TOEFL score of 100 overall, with at least 20 in each section)
Selection Criteria
- Academic merit
- English language proficiency
Application Process
- Institutional selection (maximum of one recipient per year)
Recent Past Awardees
- 2025 – Blue Byrne; Caroline Connolly
-
Overview
The Royal Society of Chemistry – Certificate of Undergraduate Excellence award recognizes undergraduate students in North America who demonstrate outstanding achievement and engagement in chemical sciences coursework and research.
Eligibility Criteria
- Undergraduate chemistry students
Selection Criteria
- Academic excellence
- Research involvement
- Dedication to the field
Application Process
- Departmental nomination
Recent Past Awardees
- 2025 – Safiya Hamud
- 2024 –Emily Dalley; Vincent Ngo
-
Overview
This award honors undergraduate Teaching Assistants who demonstrate exceptional dedication, reliability, and impact in supporting student learning within the chemistry program.
Eligibility Criteria
- Undergraduate Teaching Assistants
Selection Criteria
- Teaching effectiveness
- Commitment to student success
- Consistency and initiative
Application Process
- Faculty nomination or departmental selection
Recent Past Awardees
- 2026 - Lydia Buxa, Garrett Collins, Min Doan Lillie Fedewa, Christopher Janku, Michka Kiessel Ethan Mouser, Elsie Perry, Gabriella Smitherman, Wesley Stephenson, Galilee Thompson
- 2025 – Iqra Ilyas; Ryan Olson; Jared Taylor
- 2022 – Kesaia Akau; Greg Cook; Gabrielle Desjardins; Brianna Ingersoll; Alex Malin; Adam Montgomery; Spencer (Robert) Mukai Olivia Schmitz; Emily Carroll; Garrett Collins; Talley Fenn; John Kim; Sara McCormack; Kaixin Wang; Emma Hale; Johan Simmons
- 2019 – Alison Luscomb; Gabriel McDonald; Sasha Moonitz; Adam Pancoast; Tammy Pham; Hector Torres
- 2018 – Max Alfonso; Brock Casselman; Caitlin Coplan; Heather Cummins; Joshua Edwards; Dalles Keyes; Vu Nguyen; Elizabeth Christensen Craig Hansen
- 2017 – Mckenzie Jonely Carter Jennings; Caroline Wang
- 2016 –Ben Berger; Karl Heward
- 2015 –Zhesen Tan; Renee Tran
-
Overview
The Ryan DeLuca Scholarship supports chemistry students and honors Professor Ryan DeLuca through funding provided by the Allen Foundation.
Eligibility Criteria
- Undergraduate chemistry students
Selection Criteria
- Academic performance
- Departmental evaluation
Application Process
- Departmental nomination or review
Recent Past Awardees
- 2026 – Andre Gohier; Spencer Stevenson
- 2025 – Shelby Accuttoroop; Maddox Riewald
-
Overview
The James M. Sugihara Scholarship provides financial support to undergraduate chemistry students living in the Crocker Science House, fostering both academic success and a collaborative science-focused living environment.
About James M. Sugihara
James M. Sugihara, first Ph.D. recipient at the University of Utah and long-time faculty member in Chemistry, passed away on Nov. 12, 2019. He was 101. Sugihara holds an important place in the University’s history, as well as Utah’s history.
In 1942, shortly after the bombing of Pearl Harbor, when Sugihara was just 24, he and his family were relocated from California to the Topaz Mountain internment camp in central Utah. The family lost their home and business.
However, Sugihara was granted a leave from Topaz Mountain to pursue an education, since he had already earned a bachelor’s degree in chemistry at UC-Berkeley in 1939. He enrolled at the U in 1944 and studied chemistry with professor Henry Eyring.
In 1946, Sugihara’s 84-page Ph.D. dissertation on “The Reactions of Mercaptans on Sucrose and Molasses,” included only three approval signatures: Walter D. Bonner, Lloyd E. Malm and Elton L. Quinn. (Henry Eyring had not yet started work as dean of the Graduate School by that date.)
Sugihara received his doctorate degree in Chemistry in 1947. The University catalog in 1948-1949 then listed the following chemistry faculty: professors Elton Quinn, Lloyd Malm, and Henry Eyring; associate professors Vic Beard, Randall Hamm, Bill Burke, Jim Horton; and assistant professors Stuart Haynes, George Hill, Austin Wahraftig, Ransom Parlin, Bruno Zwolinski, and James Sugihara.
In 1964, Sugihara moved to North Dakota State University and became dean of the College of Science and Mathematics. He was named Dean of the Graduate School and Director of Research in 1974. In 1998, he retired as Professor Emeritus.
“Scientific progress has moved in ways that one could not expect,” said Sugihara in 2018, at the age of 100.
“Research in genetics has become paramount, leading to improvements in medicine and human health that one could not imagine just 10 or 20 years ago,” added Sugihara.
In 2010, the James M. Sugihara Scholarship – a permanent named scholarship – was established in the Chemistry Department at the U. It provides financial support for an undergraduate who is studying chemistry and who is living on campus in the Crocker Science House located on Officers Circle in Fort Douglas.
“I have lived by the principle that one ought to give back more than they receive,” said Sugihara in 2018.
Eligibility Criteria
- Undergraduate students studying chemistry
- Must reside in the Crocker Science House on campus (Officers Circle, Fort Douglas)
Selection Criteria
- Academic engagement in chemistry
- Participation in the Science House community
Application Process
- Departmental and/or housing-based review
Recent Past Awardees
- 2025 – Nicole Payne
- 2024 – Alana Field
- 2023 – Abbie Nistler
- 2022 – Alana Field
- 2021 – Chase Pehrson
- 2020 – Brekke Pattison
-
Overview
The Ronald & Eileen Ragsdale Endowment Scholarship provides financial assistance to chemistry and chemical education students engaged in research.
Eligibility Criteria
- Chemistry or chemical education students
- Participation in a research project
Selection Criteria
- Research involvement
- Academic merit
Application Process
- Faculty-guided research project with reporting requirements
Recent Past Awardees
- 2026 – Kate Anderson (Eyring Award); Katherine Osterstock (Reese Award); Mason Hanna (Ragsdale Award); Jillian Battista (Ragsdale Award); Joe Brosz (Burdette Award)
- 2025 – Emily Dalley (Eyring Award); Farah Sadat (Reese Award); Wilder Dalton (Ragsdale Award); Safiya Hamud (Burdett Award); Kaylee Meyers (White Award)
- 2024 – Wilder Dalton (Eyring Award); Emily Dalley (Reese Award) Derek Mansfield (Ragsdale Award); Vincent Ngo (Burdett Award)
- 2023 – Aric Potter (Eyring Award); Travis Martinez (Burdett Award)
- 2022 – Aric Potter (Eyring Award); Yexalen Barrera (Reese Award); Sophie Downey (Ragsdale Award); Tyson Trimble (Burdett Award)
- 2021 – Clista Galecki (Reese Award)
- 2020 – Brandt Graham; Min Kyaw; Brighton Alvey; Noah Shepard; David Swan (Reese Award)
- 2019 – Wallis Scholl; Celine Slam; Joshua Walker; Jesse Griffin (Reese Award); Rory Weeks; Justis Aderibigbe
- 2018 – Michael Montgomery (Eyring Award); Aryana Vadipour, Mandy Robison (Reese Award); Connor Weatherly (?); Jackson Bladen, Elizabeth Fine (Burdett Award)
- 2017 – Rafael Durtschi (?); Kelsey Lassen (Burdett); Wenyuan Li (Eyring Award); Rebecca Luke (Reese Award); Cameron Owen (?)
- 2016 – April Anamisis; Lillian Godfrey; Evan Huyrlow; Carter Jennings; Evelyn Kimbrough; Caleigh Oliver; Marisol Jane
- 2015 – Sang Oh, Marisol Zarate (Ragsdale Award); April Anamisis (Eyring Award)
- 2014 – April Anamisis, Tyler Baldwin, Renee Santa Maria, Claire Schraidt (Ragsdale Award); Lauren Keller (Burdett Award); Dominic Caputo (Eyring Award); Austin Waters (Reese Award)
- 2013 – Aisha Hassan (Ragsdale Award); McKenna Oney (White Award); Levon Katsakhyan (Eyring Award)
- 2012 – Margaret Reid (Ragsdale Award)
- 2011 – Min-Ju Choe (Ragsdale Award)
-
Overview
The Undergraduate Research Scholarship supports students engaged in research projects, promoting hands-on scholarly experience under faculty guidance.
Eligibility Criteria
- Undergraduate students involved in research
Selection Criteria
- Quality and feasibility of proposed research
- Faculty support
Application Process
- Submit a research proposal
- Conduct and report research under faculty supervision
Recent Past Awardees
- 2026 – Emily Dalley, Nora Langer, Audrey Mcmillian, Jett Nemelka, V Saxton, Annie Thompson, Lily Wheeler
- 2024 – Nicolas Aglaure, Emily Dalley, Kaden A. Gravois, Safiya Hamud, Nathan Jackson, Claire M. Massouh, Delaney Miller, Vincent Hgo, Mary Parker, Ellie Shimoda, Rune Walkingshaw, Thomas Wright
- 2023 – Arnel Besic, Natalia Danilla, Mary Alice Parker, Gary Perea, Elena Sjoblom, Sophie Steckel, Rachel Whipple
- 2022 – Julia Case, Brandt Graham, Cat Greenburg, Samantha Kraus, Zach Nguyen, Tommy Primo, Andrew Ralph, Rose Godfrey, Sydney Larsen, Jenny Ngo
- 2021 – Andrew Larkin; Gary Perea; Alison Wang
- 2020 – Tyler Ball; Alex Engstrom; Christopher Nielson
- 2019 – Micah Ballif; Matthew Ticknor; Katherine Worms; Casey Wood; Chase Zagorec-Marks; Phuong Nguyen
-
Overview
Awarded to top-performing students in the Honors General Chemistry sequence, the W. H. Breckenridge Honors Scholarship recognizes academic excellence and achievement in rigorous coursework.
Eligibility Criteria
- Students in Honors General Chemistry
Selection Criteria
- Outstanding academic performance
- Faculty recommendation
Application Process
- Faculty-selected
Recent Past Awardees
- 2025 – Cheryl Qian; Justin Schmidt
- 2024 – Hayden Spurgeon; Orion Xiao
- 2023 – Noah Coombs; Zoie Frisby; Kaylee Meyers
- 2022 – Hayden Spurgeon; Orion Xiao
- 2021 – Maddox Riewald; Broc Stowe
- 2020 – Alison Wang
- 2019 – Bryan Banuelos
-
Overview
The Walter D. & Grace G. Bonner Memorial Award recognizes top graduating majors in the Department of Chemistry. Established in memory of Professor Walter D. Bonner, former chair of the department, these awards honor academic excellence and outstanding achievement.
About Walter D. Bonner
Walter D. Bonner (1878–1956) was an American chemist, scholar, and respected educator who served as professor and head of the chemistry department at the University of Utah. Born in Osceola, Nebraska, Bonner came from a family of modest means and developed a strong work ethic early in life while working on farms and supporting his own education.
He began his formal studies relatively late, entering Nebraska Wesleyan University at age 21, where he developed an interest in chemistry under the mentorship of Professor F. J. Alway. Bonner later pursued advanced study at Princeton University and the University of Toronto, earning his Ph.D. in 1911. His early research included influential work on physical chemistry, particularly studies of boiling point constants.
In 1915, Bonner joined the University of Utah, where he would spend more than three decades building and leading the chemistry department. Despite limited facilities in its early years, Bonner helped foster a culture of research and academic rigor, mentoring many students who went on to successful careers in science and medicine.
Known for his calm temperament, intellectual breadth, and dedication to teaching, Bonner was widely admired by colleagues and students alike. Over his career, he published numerous scientific papers and contributed significantly to the advancement of chemistry education. He passed away on January 4, 1956, leaving behind a lasting legacy as both a scientist and an inspiring teacher.
Eligibility Criteria
- Graduating chemistry majors
Selection Criteria
- Academic excellence
- Departmental contributions
Application Process
- Departmental selection
Recent Past Awardees
- 2026 – Joe Breslin; Calvin Kern; Alex Knorpp; Isaac Lee; Kaylee Meyers; Abby Niwa; Nate Patchen; Samantha Stinson; Oleksandr Synkovskyi; Brynn Tate
- 2025 – Grace Bean; Quin Cassidy; Bailee Fiedel; Alexandra Glatz; Lorrin Malady; Simon McCune; Paul Miazza; Vincent Ngo; Benjamin Parkin
- 2024 – Leo Bloxham; Andrew Larkin; Rebecca McMurray; Adam Montgomery; Jessica Pike
- 2023 – Dawson Baxter; Eva Bol; Ali Bouck; Rachel Carder; Eli Counterman; Taylor Jorgensen; Chase Pehrson; Isaiah Rosal; Jack Sheehan; Elena Sjoblom; Isabelle Smith; Rachel Whipple
- 2022 – Leo Bloxham; Andrew Larkin; Rebecca McMurray; Adam Montgomery; Jessica Pike
- 2021 – Alayna Arnholt; Tyler Ball; Shelby Galinat; Zac Michaelson; Ethan Murdock; Charlotte Randolph; Emily Yang
- 2020 – Natasha Andreasen; Maggie Brueggemeyer; Kason Glover; Elliot Gray; Kathryn Jones; Sara Leininger; Yingyue Li; Nick Olsen; Rachel Payne; Anthony Phero; Susanna An Tang; Chase Zagorec-Marks
- 2019 – Kayla Blickensderfer; Jennison Cull; Makenzie Hullinger; Rachel Lee; Casey Wood; Caitlin Coplan; Heather Cummins; Ryan Johnson; Riley Pence; Mingyang Zhang
-
Overview
The Roy E. McDonald and Family Scholarship is an annual scholarship funded by the family of Roy E. McDonald, one of Salt Lake City’s preeminent physicians. The scholarship’s purpose is to help defray the cost of higher education for chemistry students with financial need in the Department of Chemistry. Continue to support this award here.
Selection Criteria
- Outstanding academic performance
Recent Past Awardees
- 2026 – Emily Norton
-
Overview
Established in 1995 by Eunice Kronstadt in memory of Mr. Reuben Kronstadt to supports tuition for undergraduates in chemistry.
Eligibility Criteria
Selection Criteria
- Outstanding academic performance
Application Process
Recent Past Awardees
- 2026 – Geneva McClory
- 2024 – Taylor Hatch
- 2021 – Marissa Badham
- 2018 – Wallis Scholl
- 2017 – Abigail Friese
- 2016 – Hodan Abdi
- 2015 – Sabrina Aderibigbe; Julianne Hatt
- 2012 – Miles Roberts
- 2011 – Mark Burgess; Chelsie Conrad; Royce Davidson; Kylee Tokit
