UAF Society of Physics Students recognized for excellence

December 16, 2019

Tanya Clayton
907-474-7541

The University of Alaska Fairbanks chapter of the Society of Physics Students has won an Outstanding Chapter Award from the SPS national office. This is the third consecutive time the chapter has been recognized for its excellence as a top-tier student-led physical sciences organization.

The Society of Physics Students is a professional association designed for students. Membership is open to anyone interested in physics and related fields.

The SPS chapter at UAF is advised by David Newman, professor of physics, and is led by student officers. The 2019-2020 officers are Evans Callis, Cory McDonald, Austin Cohen, Devon Gerstenfield, Alexander Gloger and Jacob Torres.

“This recognition is a tremendous honor for us," chapter president Evans Callis said. "We spend much of our time working to promote physics and science education, as well as developing strong professional skills.”

SPS chapters are evaluated on their level of interaction with the campus community, the professional physics community, the public, and with SPS national programs.

During the 2018-2019 school year, UAF SPS successfully conducted two Astropalooza events, which are public astronomy and science nights where the community has a chance to learn about astronomy as well as the nature of physics. These events have become very popular in the Fairbanks community.

UAF SPS was also involved in the UAF College of Natural Science and Mathematics Science Potpourri event, which is designed for elementary age children and their families.

"I have only been a part of the club for a year and a half, but I have met a lot of great people and I have been a part of fantastic opportunities I wouldn't have otherwise been a part of,” treasurer Austin Cohen said.

For more information, contact Tanya Clayton, public information officer, at 474-7541 or tfclayton@alaska.edu.