April 21, 2011

UCSB Undergraduates Recognized by Barry M. Goldwater Scholarship Program

Aleksey Generozov, a junior in the College of Creative Studies at UC Santa Barbara, has received a Barry M. Goldwater scholarship to continue his studies in astrophysics. He is one of 275 recipients from a field of 1,095 mathematics, science, and engineering students who were nominated by the faculties of colleges and universities nationwide.

In addition, Chelsea Harris and Kenechukwu Akametalu, also juniors, were recognized with official Honorable Mentions. Harris is majoring in physics in the College of Creative Studies, and Akametalu is an electrical and computer engineering student in UCSB's College of Engineering.

The scholarships, which are presented by the Barry M. Goldwater Scholarship and Excellence in Education Foundation, were established to address the current and future shortage of highly qualified scientists, mathematicians, and engineers. Scholarships provide up to $7,500 per year for educational expenses for sophomores and juniors who intend to pursue careers in mathematics, the natural sciences, or engineering.

"The Goldwater Scholarship is a measure of a student's commitment and ability to pursue a career in science, math, and engineering," said Bruce Tiffney, professor of earth science and dean of the College of Creative Studies. "I am delighted that two College of Creative Studies astrophysics students were recognized this year –– Aleksey Generozov and Chelsea Harris –– along with Kenechukwu Akametalu of the College of Engineering. Their collective success attests to the strong emphasis on undergraduate research at UC Santa Barbara."

The Barry M. Goldwater Scholarship and Excellence in Education Foundation, which oversees the scholarship awards, was authorized by Congress in 1986 to honor Senator Barry M. Goldwater, who served his country for 56 years as a soldier and statesman, including 30 years in the U.S. Senate. The scholarship program honors his leadership, courage, and vision, and establishes in his name an endowed recognition program to foster and encourage excellence in science and mathematics.

Since its first award in 1989, the foundation has bestowed over 6,600 scholarships totaling approximately $50 million.

About UC Santa Barbara

The University of California, Santa Barbara is a leading research institution that also provides a comprehensive liberal arts learning experience. Our academic community of faculty, students, and staff is characterized by a culture of interdisciplinary collaboration that is responsive to the needs of our multicultural and global society. All of this takes place within a living and learning environment like no other, as we draw inspiration from the beauty and resources of our extraordinary location at the edge of the Pacific Ocean.