Casabona Competition brings out the best in some of our best students
The Fall 2022 iteration of the Mario M. Casabona Awards Competition showcases another group of exemplary students
Posted in: CSAM Research, CSAM Students
On November 16 an event that has become a staple of our College brought together faculty, staff, students, alumni and industry professionals to get a glimpse into the research taking place throughout our departments. Soon after the event began, the Center for Environmental and Life Sciences Atrium came to life with conversation and intrigue revolving around our six students’ work in the pre-competition poster session. This time gave the competitors a chance to get warmed up for their upcoming presentations and gave the judges and guests time to get familiarized with the students and the work they would be hearing about.
Moving into CELS 120 the excitement swirling was undeniable. You could sense some nerves amongst the students, but as each took the floor it was clear they were all well prepared. An occasional fumble was quickly overshadowed by a well structured presentation keeping them on track and a professional handling of all questions the judges could throw at them. Following the six presentations and a short deliberation by the judges, the recognition and awards began.
Each student was recognized for their achievement and their fantastic job representing their respective departments. With that, it was time to name the winners. Third place was earned by Physics major Michael Giarratana mentored by Dr. Marc Favata, second place was Molecular Biology major Madeline Lucas who was mentored by Dr. Elena Petroff and Dr. Vladislav Snitsarev. The first place winner for Fall 2022 was Earth and Environmental Science major Emily Cepin mentored by Dr. Ying Cui. As the first place student’s mentor, Dr. Cui also received the Best Mentor award. Finally, the Audience Favorite award, which for the first time ended in a tie, was split between Biochemistry major Citlaly Hernandez and once again Madeline Lucas!
Thank you to our judges and all that came to support this exciting event, and congratulations to our six students! Check out the Mario M. Casabona Future Scientists Awards Fall 2022 Competition website to learn more about the event, the judges and the students.