The Clemson University College of Science honored exceptional undergraduate and graduate students at an awards ceremony on April 9.
Outstanding Junior in Science Abigayle Thompson was acknowledged as the top junior in the College of Science for her notable academic achievements and character. Thompson, a member of the Clemson Honors College, is majoring in physics with a minor in electrical engineering. She has been actively involved in NASA-affiliated student sounding rocket programs and conducted research in various labs on campus.
Outstanding Senior in Science Janhavi Deshpande, a graduating senior majoring in mathematical sciences and economics with a minor in financial management, received recognition for her academic excellence and contributions to various research projects. Deshpande has been conducting interdisciplinary honors thesis research and is actively involved in projects related to cybersecurity, optimization studies, and disease-spreading modeling initiatives.
Outstanding Undergraduate in Discovery Award Ryan Mehlem, a biochemistry major with minors in cluster engineering and business administration, was honored for his exceptional original research in the sciences. Mehlem has built a strong research record in multiple labs and is actively involved in various initiatives to promote STEM education in rural communities.
Blue Key Academic and Leadership Award Kathleen Barfield, a genetics and sociology major with a minor in gender, sexuality and women’s studies, was recognized for her academic scholarship and campus leadership. Barfield has been actively involved in research projects related to human STAG1 cluster genes, as well as projects focusing on compound characterization and melon plant resistance.
Phi Kappa Phi Certificate of Merit Mercy Crapps, a biological sciences major and member of the Clemson Honors College, received the Phi Kappa Phi Certificate of Merit for her exceptional contributions in leadership, service, and creative endeavors. Crapps has a research background in stroke risk evaluation, ovarian cancer, and bioengineering, and has been actively involved in various campus and community initiatives.
Outstanding Graduate in Engagement Jared Kettinger, a Ph.D. candidate in the School of Mathematical and Statistical Sciences, was honored for his outstanding community engagement efforts beyond the University. Kettinger’s research focuses on commutative algebra and algebraic number theory, and he has been actively involved in mentoring high school students and organizing academic events on campus.
Outstanding Graduate in Learning Abigail McNamee, a Ph.D. student in chemistry, received recognition for her exemplary teaching efforts in undergraduate science education. McNamee has been actively involved as a teaching assistant and peer mentor, supporting and guiding undergraduate students in their academic pursuits.
Outstanding Graduate in Discovery Jerry (Rui) Che, a Ph.D. candidate in genetics, was acknowledged for his distinctive contributions to the field through groundbreaking research projects. Che has made significant discoveries in molecular pathways and gene identification, leading to advancements in genetic research.
Ben Martinez, a Ph.D. student in the Department of Physics and Astronomy, received recognition for his research on space weather and the ionosphere-thermosphere region. Martinez’s research has contributed to advancements in short-term forecasting capabilities and has been published in major scientific journals.
SciSAB Outstanding Board Member Ava McKee received the Science Student Advisory Board Outstanding Board Member Award for her exemplary leadership and contributions to SciSAB. McKee has been actively involved in various initiatives and programs within the College of Science, promoting research and academic excellence.
These exceptional students have demonstrated outstanding academic achievements, leadership abilities, and dedication to research and community engagement, showcasing the high standards of excellence at Clemson University College of Science.
