CU Chemistry Club honored with two awards from American Chemical Society

Cameron University's Chemistry Club, a student chapter of the American Chemical Society (ACS), has been recognized by the organization with the ACS Student Communities Award and the Green Chemistry Student Chapter Award for the 2023-2024 academic year. The awards will be formally presented during the ACS National Meeting in San Diego, Calif., in March 2025.

The ACS Student Communities Award recognizes ACS student chapters on the basis of their programs and activities, which include setting goals, budgeting, chapter development, service and outreach, and professional development.

CU's Chemistry Club developed and implemented a wide range of activities during the 2023-24 academic year. Highlighted activities include:

• CHEM Quest, which provided middle school students with a unique hands-on experience, delving into the realm of green chemistry which culminated in the creation of homemade glass soap using microwave technology.

• Full STEM Ahead academy, a collaborative effort orchestrated by multiple departments within the STEM field. As part of this interdisciplinary gathering, the Chemistry Club orchestrated the chemistry session.

• A green chemistry event at Lawton High School, which offered a comprehensive academy focused on green chemistry for high school students over two days.

• A solar eclipse watch party, during which club members distributed solar eclipse glasses and set up a telescope so participants could get a close look at the eclipse.

• Hosting CU alumnus John Rasinski, principal scientist in analytical sciences at Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company in Akron, Ohio. Rasinski led a dynamic professional development workshop to an engaged audience of approximately 50 students. Through interactive discussions and practical advice, Rasinski imparted invaluable tips and strategies for navigating the job market with confidence and competence. Rasinksi also made a research presentation during his visit to CU.

• Hosting CU alumna Angela Gibbons, who conducted an enlightening session titled "The Role of the PA in Health Care Today." Her presentation provided invaluable insights into the evolving role of PAs within the healthcare landscape, offering attendees a deeper understanding of this critical profession.

• At the ACS National Meeting in Spring 2024, held in New Orleans, two CU students presented their research.

Additional activities included a chemistry magic show at Cleveland Elementary School, a fundraising bake sale for the club, attendance at a research talk an at ACS local sectional meeting at Midwestern State University, and participation in Oklahoma Research Day. The club also developed green chemistry experiments throughout the course of one semester.

The Green Chemistry Student Chapter award provides national recognition for ACS student chapters that have shown outstanding commitment to incorporating green chemistry into their annual activities. Knowledge of and involvement in green chemistry principles and practices is essential for preparing students for careers in which they can work toward solutions to global sustainability challenges.

CU's Chemistry Club was one of only 25 student chapters across the nation to be honored with both awards. Dr. Ann Nalley and Dr. KD Priyasantha serve as faculty advisors for the club, which boasts 25 members. Officers are Leilani Hunter, president and public relations; Diana Dao, vice president; Cierra Howse, secretary; Jacob Thorne, treasurer; Katy Dao, SGA representative; Jinyoung Beadles, public relations; and Zoey Dean, public relations.

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