Distinguished Service in Science Education Awards - 2003

Judy Jones , Karen Shafer, Fran Nolan, Dr. Jack Hall, Fred Beyer, Dr. Steven Dyche

Nancy Wynn Distinguished Service Award High School
Judith Jones – East Chapel Hill High School, Chapel Hill

• Lead a reform initiative called “School within a School” that created small learning communities within the larger high school environment.
• Is described by co-workers as a mentor, friend, and role model. She is someone with endless energy who is quick to assume additional responsibilities to help a new teacher settle in.

Distinguished Service Award - Administration and Supervision
Karen Shafer – Director of the Science and Math Center at UNCW

• Is a grant writing expert – it is said that if you have a need, Karen can write a grant and receive the funding.
• Is involved tirelessly in the State Science Fair and Science Olympiad.
• Nurtured a partnership with public schools, private schools and the university to put graduate students in classrooms.

Distinguished Service Award – University
Dr. Steven Dyche - Director of the Science and Math Center at ASU

• Credited with forging a partnership between ASU and area public schools.
• For the past 18 years he has taught a large Biology lecture class for no payment.
• Is described by students and co-workers as a person who enjoys teaching science and enjoys helping others.
• Can be coaxed in to doing anything for a chocolate chip cookie!

Dr. Jack Hall – Chair of the Environmental Studies Department at UNCW

• Involved with Science Fair and Science Olympiad at all levels.
• Unending dedication to science and the field of environmental science.
• Writes a monthly column for the website Ecology.COM, “ Dr. Jack’s Natural World”, www.ecology.com that answers student, parent, teacher questions from all over the world.

Distinguished Service Award – Non-School Setting
Fran Nolan

“Spearheads an effort by almost all Science Education Centers, Museums, and Zoos across the state to coordinate efforts with K-12 schools to offer better and more enriched activities for students. Fran is known as a person who conducts his work with no personal rewards in mind. He is truly a collaborator in anything that he does in science education. Eager to try new ideas, he is always seeking a “win – win” situation for all parties involved.”

Distinguished Service Award – Commercial
Fred Beyer

“Fred’s commitment to science education in North Carolina is unmatched. His position with Fisher Scientific Company has allowed him to continue to bring resources to schools and teachers. Fred’s drive, determination, and insight make him a role model to his peers. His untiring efforts serve as an inspiration to everyone involved in science education. His philosophy and vision will continue to represent the very best of what we in science education have to offer present and future generations.”