Outstanding Graduate Student Award

Winner of the 2008 Outstanding Graduate Student Award:

Daniel Reese

Daniel Reese came to Maryland from the University of Utah and will graduate with a Master of Science from the Department of Nutrition and Food Science in May 2008. Dan is conducting his M.S. research project on whole surface imaging of fruits at the USDA Agricultural Research Service, Food Safety Laboratory in Beltsville, MD. Dan has demonstrated excellent analytical and problemsolving skills related to complexities of mechanical imaging technologies that can impact the safety of our food supply.

Dan is highly articulate with an ability to synthesize complex information and relay it in an understandable manner. In the Food Science Graduate Seminar and in graduate committee meetings, Dan gives presentations on his research that attests to his persuasive and fluent speaking style. He is highly organized and proficient at public speaking providing correct and educational information.

Dan’s academic record is excellent, maintaining at 3.5 in his M.S. program including an A+ in Food Processing Technology and A’s in Nutrition Food & Public Policy, Political Analysis, and Problems in Nutrition & Food Science. Dan has steadfastly maintained a desire to work in the area of food policy and regulation following graduation.

Dan’s leadership abilities are outstanding. He is an active member of the Institute of Food Technologists (the leading professional society for food scientists) including the Food Laws & Regulations Division in the DC and Maryland local sections. Dan agreed to serve as President of the Food Science Club in the department. He adeptly took control of a small organization and turned it around with an increase in membership and activities. Attendance has doubled to about 20 per meeting featuring outside speakers from local Institute of Food Technologists sections. Dan also collaborated with the Food & Nutrition Club (FAN) to prepare food for a homeless shelter, participate in the DC Diabetes Walk and organized the department holiday social.

Dan competed nationally in a Food Science essay contest on leadership. Based on his essay, he received full travel funding to attend the IFT 2008 Strategic Leadership Forum. He also represents AGNR as a representative to the UM Graduate Student Assembly continuing involvement in student government initiated as an undergraduate.

Award Details

This recognition is given to a graduate student who has: Demonstrated excellence in conducting research in pursuit of an advanced degree; Exhibited excellence in teaching as related to discipline area and research; Demonstrated leadership and/or service to the department, college and/or university; Maintained high standards of scholarship, citizenship, fellowship; and Conducted themselves in a manner which reflects positively on their fellow students, the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources and the University of Maryland System Each academic program is asked to make a nomination supported by record of the student's activities and achievements.

Each department, program, or unit in AGNR is encouraged to make at least one nomination for the Outstanding Graduate Student Award.

Nominations from non-university sources are also encouraged

Nominating packets should include:

1-2 page nominating letter

1-2 page narrative of accomplishments

Contact information for nominee and nominator including – phone, email, and mailing address.

Student resume and transcript

Total package not to exceed 6 pages

Nominations are due by February 16

5 copies of the nominating packet should be submitted to Gail Yeiser, 1104 Symons Hall, College Park, MD 20742.

Previous Recipients...

For more information, contact Gail Yeiser

Last updated: 03/12/2009