Natural and Social Sciences Research Award
The Exemplary Research Award is given annually to recognize faculty who have developed research trajectories that are original and impactful in creating knowledge as well as engaging students in their research topics both inside and outside the classroom.
2025-2026 Honorees
The Exemplary Research Honorees are Dr. Steven Holochwost of Psychology for his interdisciplinary research trajectory that integrates developmental psychology, neuroscience, and arts-based interventions, producing substantial impact through prolific publications, major external funding (~$13M), highly cited work, and national recognition along with integrating research into innovative coursework, and supporting student presentations and achievements at institutional and national levels and Dr. Stephen Redenti of Biological Sciences for his impactful research trajectory in retinal biology, tissue engineering, and extracellular vesicle signaling, demonstrated by over 100 peer‑reviewed publications, sustained NIH funding, and significant scholarly influence that integrates student engagement with numerous co-authored publications.
2024-2025 Honorees
Our inaugural recipients of this award are Dr. Benjamin Burton-Pye of Chemistry for his high-profile radiochemistry research program focused on luminescent systems, Dr. Jennifer Laird of Sociology for her high-impact research on poverty and inequality with a recent special focus on energy insecurity, and Dr. Cameron McNeil of Anthropology for her broad-ranging contributions to understandings of ritual, ecology, and politics in Mayan Mesoamerica.
