USU Chem/Biochem Club Receives National Recognition

Utah State University’s Chemistry & Biochemistry Club, a student affiliate chapter of the American Chemical Society, was among 40 student chapters nationwide selected by the society for an Outstanding Chapter Award for the 2007-08 academic year.

The USU group was chosen from more than 330 student chapters. The Aggies will be recognized in an awards ceremony during the society’s annual national meeting this spring in Salt Lake City.

“Formation of an officially recognized ACS chapter is an achievement in and of itself,” says Steve Scheiner, head of USU’s Chemistry and Biochemistry Department. “To receive an Outstanding Chapter Award is a wonderful testament to efforts and commitment of these students and their faculty mentors, Scott Ensign and Lisa Berreau.”

The ACS lauded the USU chapter’s community service outreach efforts.

Referring to the club’s coordination of the university-wide “Going Green Extravaganza” Earth Day celebration held this past April [2008] on the USU Quad, selection committee members wrote, “(coordinating) a 4500-person extravaganza was an awesome achievement. Great job.”

In addition, the committee applauded the chapter’s outreach programs to youngsters. During the 2007-08 academic year, the club presented chemistry demonstrations at elementary schools throughout Cache Valley and beyond, as well as to preschool and scout groups. The club also presented at USU celebrations, including Aggie Family Day and the Community Children’s Halloween Carnival.

Club members served as judges for a science fair held at InTech Collegiate High School, a charter school emphasizing math and science on USU’s Innovation Campus. The members have also mentored high school students during on-campus lab field trips and during a summer high school internship program hosted by the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry.

“Our student chapter is raising the level of understanding of chemistry throughout our community,” Scheiner says.

“USU is setting a fine example for other chapters and preparing the next generation of chemical professionals,” says Bruce Bursten, ACS president.

The Chemistry & Biochemistry Club meets on the first and third Wednesdays of each month at 5:30 p.m. in Widtsoe Hall, room 330. New members are welcome. For information, contact chemclubusu@gmail.com.

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