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Goldwater Scholars Enhance University of Idaho Status in Math, Science
April 3, 2008
MOSCOW, Idaho – Two University of Idaho students are among 321 students across the nation – and the only individuals in Idaho – to receive 2008 Barry M. Goldwater Scholarships, one of the most prestigious awards available to undergraduates.
Since 1991, University of Idaho students have garnered 22 Goldwater scholarships given nationwide, the most in the state. Outside of the University of Idaho, there have only been five Goldwater awards given to Idaho college students over the past 17 years.
Bryan J. Wilson of Boise, a mathematics major, and Joshua R. Pohlman of Grand Forks, N.D., a natural resources major, will receive the $7,500 scholarships.
“Receiving this scholarship means my academic achievements at the University of Idaho are competitive on a national scale, which means more to me than the financial portion of the scholarship,” said Pohlman, a University of Idaho honors program student.
Wilson and Pohlman were chosen from among 1,035 applicants nominated by colleges and universities nationwide and are the only recipients studying in Idaho. Pohlman credits Mark Warner, associate professor of anthropology and associate director of the university’s honors program, as well as the faculty and staff at the College of Natural Resources, for with helping him receive the scholarship.
Wilson said his grant work with Hirotachi Abo, assistant professor of mathematics, and his top-200 score on the Putnam mathematics exam are what allowed him to find favor in being named a scholarship recipient this year.
“I intend to use the scholarship money for the regular stuff, like tuition and books, to help me get through my last few semesters,” Wilson said. He plans to obtain a doctorate in mathematics and perform theoretical research, either as a professor or for a research agency.
Pohlman, who is studying ecology and biochemistry, plans to pursue a doctorate in environmental health sciences and then conduct research related to worldwide environmental conditions and disease. He plans to travel to China for the summer to conduct research in environmental health.
"The successes of our students in a national competition such as this are a testament to the quality of the students and faculty at the University of Idaho,” Warner said.
The Goldwater Foundation is a federally endowed agency established in 1986. The scholarship program honors the late Sen. Barry M. Goldwater and encourages outstanding students to pursue careers in mathematics, natural sciences, and engineering fields. The foundation has awarded 5,523 scholarships worth approximately $54 million.
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About the University of Idaho
Founded in 1889, the University of Idaho is the state’s flagship higher-education institution and its principal graduate education and research university, bringing insight and innovation to the state, the nation and the world. University researchers attract nearly $100 million in research grants and contracts each year; the University of Idaho is the only institution in the state to earn the prestigious Carnegie Foundation ranking for high research activity. The university’s student population includes first-generation college students and ethnically diverse scholars. Offering more than 150 degree options in 10 colleges, the university combines the strengths of a large university with the intimacy of small learning communities. For information, visit www.uidaho.edu.
Contact: Brian Rich, University Communications, (208) 885-7251, briantr@uidaho.edu
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