Santiago Schnell, the William K. Warren Foundation Dean, has announced the 2023 College of Science Faculty Awards. Two recipients from the Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry, Allen Oliver and DeeAnne Goodenough-Lashua, are among this year’s winners.
Allen Oliver, Research Professor and Director of the Molecular Structure Facility, is the recipient of the inaugural College of Science Outstanding Research Scientist Award. This award recognizes an outstanding member of the research faculty or staff whose work has had a significant positive impact on the research of others by providing technical assistance, consulting, training, or other guidance.
Oliver is an internationally recognized scientist whose expertise is in X-ray crystallography. X-ray crystallography is used to determine how atoms are connected in crystals, which can elucidate the 3D structure of molecules that comprise the crystal. This is turn can be used to establish coordination, connectivity, function, reactivity, or biological activity. He is a sought-after collaborator with partnerships both at Notre Dame and at domestic and international institutions, and his research has contributed to more than 275 publications with 7,600 citations. In addition to research, Oliver also co-teaches a graduate X-ray crystallography training course that is essential for students to be able to use the equipment and analyze their results. Oliver serves on the editorial board of Acta Crystallographica C and was recently elected Vice President of the American Crystallographic Association (ACA), the premier organization for structural scientists in North America.
DeeAnne Goodenough-Lashua, Teaching Professor, is one of two recipients of the inaugural Sister Kathleen Cannon Award for Excellence in Undergraduate Advising. This award, named in honor of Sister Kathleen Cannon, OP, recognizes those who follow in her footsteps as tireless advocates and advisors for students from all backgrounds.
Goodenough-Lashua serves as the academic advisor for all undergraduate chemistry and biochemistry majors. She also teaches biochemistry, organic chemistry, and analytical chemistry labs. Goodenough-Lashua masterfully aids in navigating the different paths available to our students to best prepare them for success in their post-graduation plans. For chemistry and biochemistry students, this may include medical or dental school, graduate school, work in national laboratories, or employment in industry. In addition, a high percentage of major students also participate in undergraduate research and study abroad, adding further complexity to the students’ academic plans. Students regularly remark about Goodenough-Lashua’s positive influence on and outstanding dedication to her advisees and the unwavering support she offers to them. She is also a previous recipient of the Frank O’Malley Undergraduate Teaching Award and the Dockweiler Award for Excellence in Undergraduate Advising.