Herman Holt, UNC Asheville assistant chemistry professor; George Heard, UNCA assistant chemistry professor; and UNCA’s Student Affiliate Chapter of the American Chemical Society recently received special recognition from the American Chemical Society (ACS), headquartered in Washington, D.C.

UNCA’s chapter was selected for an honorable mention award for its activities during the 2000-01 academic year. Student members participated in a number of activities, including organizing and instructing UNCA’s Super Saturday chemistry classes for motivated and gifted fifth-eighth graders. UNCA student Stan Howell served as president during this time.

Holt and Heard, faculty advisors to the group, were praised in a letter from ACS President Attila E. Pavlath. "Professors Herman Holt and George Heard, deserve special commendation. Few faculty members are willing to make the great commitment of time and energy that a successful chapter requires of its advisors. It takes more than exceptional effort to be an award-winning chapter; it takes the nurturing attention of a dedicated advisor. Professors Holt’s and Heard’s efforts certainly represent the best in undergraduate science education and mentoring around the country," the letter stated.

The UNCA Chapter of Student Affiliates of the ACS is UNCA’s oldest student organization, founded in 1964 by Professor Emeritus S. Dexter Squibb.

Media Contacts:

• Dr. Bert Holmes, UNCA Chemistry Dept. Chair, 828/232-5168
• Jill Yarnall, UNCA Public Information Assistant, 828/251-6526