The University of Florida is notable for its STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) programs and classes. The university's astronomy department is a world leader in the development of sophisticated devices that are mounted on some of the world's largest telescopes to detect new planets and other objects. Also, UF's McKnight Brain Institute is home to more than 300 faculty using some of the world's most powerful MRI imaging systems and other state-of-the-art tools to better understand the human brain and nervous system. However, these accomplishments would not be possible without the University of Florida's faculty and staff.
Dr. Anne Donnelly serves as Director of the Center for Undergraduate Research as well as an Honors instructor. On March 27, 2015, President Barack Obama selected 14 individuals as recipients of the Presidential Award for Excellence in Science, Mathematics, and Engineering Mentoring (PAESMEM) and Donnelly represented the University of Florida in being one of the few chosen. The prestigious award recognizes distinguished achievements of mentors in promoting future generations toward a science and engineering workforce that recognizes the diverse talent of this country. Dr. Anne Donnelly will be awarded and recognized during a White House ceremony in the near future.
The recipients of the PAESMEM have held great influence on thousands of students from kindergarteners to Ph.D. candidates, and these mentors have influenced doctors, engineers, teachers and researchers of today. Annually, colleagues, administrators, and students in their home institutions nominate candidates for the Presidential Award for Excellence in Science, Mathematics and Engineering Mentoring. Established in 1996 by the White House, the PAESMEM is the highest national mentoring award, and the University of Florida is honored to have Dr. Anne Donnelly receive such recognition as a gator.
Dr. Anne E. Donnelly is awarded for "successfully guiding dozens of undergraduate and graduate STEM students, many through creation of a mentoring program so fruitful it spread to other universities." She received her B.A in Zoology at Ohio Wesleyan University, her MBA from Georgia State University, and her Ph.D. in Instruction and Curriculum (Science Education) from the University of Florida. Donnelly, who came to UF in 1996, credits her students for the recognition. In addition to being honored at the White House, she will receive a $10,000 award from the National Science Foundation.
