Tucson Standard

Five faculty members from the University of Arizona have received national recognition for their contributions to science, education, and mentorship. The honors include the Presidential Awards for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching and Mentoring and the Presidential Early Career Award for Scientists and Engineers.

U of A President Suresh Garimella expressed pride in his colleagues' achievements. "We are very proud to have our colleagues awarded such prestigious honors for their work that is so central to our mission as Arizona's flagship, land-grant university," he said. He highlighted the importance of these leaders in supporting student success and inspiring excellence.

Tomás Díaz de la Rubia, senior vice president of research and innovation at U of A, also emphasized the significance of these awards. "These awards recognize the exceptional potential for leadership early in a researcher's career," he stated. He credited the innovative work by faculty at all stages of their careers with advancing knowledge and addressing societal challenges.

Rodrigo Gutierrez, director of the U of A Center for Recruitment and Retention of Mathematics Teachers, was honored with the Presidential Award for Excellence in Science, Mathematics, and Engineering Mentoring on January 13. His efforts focus on mentoring underrepresented students in STEM fields.

Ariel Beggs received the Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching. Her innovative teaching methods aim to inspire students to excel in STEM disciplines.

Three faculty members were recognized with the Presidential Early Career Award for Scientists and Engineers on January 14. Paloma Beamer was honored for her work on environmental health disparities; Gurtina Besla was recognized for her research in theoretical astrophysics; Kaitlin Kratter was celebrated for her studies on star and planet formation.