Biology Alumni Spotlight & Careers

 

Robert Brooker Award

Every year, the Departments of Biology, Chemistry, Engineering, Anthropology, and Physics & Earth-Space Science chose an upcoming senior to present the Robert Brooker Award for outstanding student in the Division of Science and Mathematics. This award is made possible through the contributions of numerous individuals interested in promoting science and mathematics at the University of Indianapolis in honor of Dr. Robert M. Brooker.

  • 2024, Grace Rout
    Grace double majored in Biology and Chemistry, was active working in the Biology C.E.L. lounge, and completed her Honors project with Dr. Gregory Weber: “Determination of the roles of keratin 18 and 19 in early Xenopus laevis development”
  • 2022, Kyra Simmons
    Kyra double majored in Biology and Chemistry while leading the volleyball team in blocking.  Kyra was accepted to the University of Cincinnati School of Medicine.

Morgan Award

In addition, the Biology Department presents the top junior the Morgan Award, named for a previous Department Chair.  These students have excelled not only in the classroom, but have made significant contributions to the department, completed outstanding research projects, or provided substantial service to the community.  Previous Biology Recipients include:

  • 2025, Lillian Arps
    Lilly was a student athlete and completed the research project, “Histological Techniques Involved with Studying Salamander Skin” with Dr. Kevin Gribbins.
  • 2024, Alexa Kinnaman
    Alexa’s course work in her biology classes was stellar and she was a top student in the honors section of BIOL 155. She also submitted the Shaheen scholarly activity grant with Alicia Cecil completing her Honors project “The Isolation and Identification of Tetracycline Resistant Bacteria from Indiana Soil” Additionally, Alexa does many things on campus with admissions, gives tours and is a leader in College Mentors for Kids. 
  • 2023, Collin Taylor
    Collin double majored in Biology and Chemistry with a pre-vet concentration. He was accepted to Veterinary School at the University of Georgia in 2023. 
  • 2022, Maci Matanich
    Maci completed her Honors project with Dr. Gregory Weber:  “Histological analysis of the decision-making process in slime mold, Physarum polycephalum”. In addition, Maci was involved in the Biology department more generally, working in the biology preproom and at the Lilly Hall front desk.  Maci was accepted to the Marian University of Osteopathic Medicine.

Alumni Award

Is presented to an outstanding alumnus based on post-collegiate achievements, service, and contributions to the University of Indianapolis.

Other Alumni Recognitions
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