Graduate Studies recognizes Pettus, students in awardsby Cindy AbolePublic Relations Medical Scientist Training Program graduate Ben Pettus, fellow graduates and College of Graduate Studies students were honored at its annual luncheon May 19. The event was sponsored by the Graduate Studies dean’s office. Parents, spouses, friends and mentors attended. Pettus received the 2005 Distinguished Graduate Student Award. He was chosen among 15 students, seven of them finalists, for their hard work, achievements, dedication and excellence. Pettus will receive a $1,000 in the fall when he presents a seminar to first-year graduate students. Students were nominated by their mentors. The award was judged by a committee which reviewed nomination letters, considered scientific publications, abstract of dissertation research and academic transcripts. Finalists selected for this award are: Kevin Becker, M.D., Ph.D., Michael Bernard, M.D., Ph.D., Michelle Crosby, M.D., Ph.D., Brandon Cuthbertson, Ph.D., Ron Feldman, M.D., Ph.D., Lori Hudson, Ph.D., John H. Schwacke, Ph.D. All finalists received a $250 award check and certificate. Other awards recognized by the college include Scotty Morrow, Service and Leadership Award; Eric Sribnick, MUSC Alumni Association Joint Alumni Scholarship and Jan Woraratanadharm, Ph.D., 2005 Office of Diversity’s Outstanding Student for Graduate Studies. “All of us are proud to recognize these students and their achievements,” said Perry V. Halushka, M.D., Ph.D., dean of the College of Graduate Studies and the program’s host. “Our committee was challenged in choosing a winner from a group of remarkable candidates,” he said. “Just reviewing each applicant’s package and recommen-dation letters was a delight to read and made us proud. Each of their accomplishments are truly extraordinary.” Both Pettus and Becker were nominated by their research mentor Yusuf Hannun, M.D., chairman of the Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology. “Both Ben and Kevin received equally strong recommendations for their exceptional work and tremendous research contributions,” said Hannun. “Both are smart, hard working, and committed who continually respond to challenges. It’s great to see them receive the credit they both deserve.” “I’m honored that the college chose me to receive this award,” Pettus said. “There are many deserving graduate students that are equally so deserving. I consider it a great complement from the college and the people I’ve worked with. It’s exciting.” Customary to the award, Pettus will return to MUSC in August to present the college’s 2005 Liz Chesterman Memorial Lecture to incoming graduate studies students during fall orientation. Friday, May 27, 2005
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