Six College of Agricultural and Life Sciences (CALS) students were recognized with awards on Nov. 17 at the 27th annual International Student Achievement Award Ceremony hosted by the University of Florida International Center as part of International Education Week.
The following international students were recognized with CALS Outstanding Achievement Awards:
- Shinichi Nakahara, entomology PhD student
- Ziliang Luo, agronomy PhD student
- Sergio Marconi, interdisciplinary ecology PhD student
- Biswadeep Dhar, youth development and family sciences PhD student
- Robinson Botero-Arias, wildlife ecology and conservation PhD student
In addition, two CALS students were second place awardees for prestigious UF awards: the Alec Courtelis award and the Scarborough-Maud Fraser award.
Ana Caroline Vasco, a doctoral candidate in animal sciences, was awarded second place for the Alec Courtelis Award. This award is granted to students for their service to UF and the Gainesville community in addition to their academic achievements.
Vasco came to UF from Brazil, bringing with her a desire to help people and animals. During her time at UF, not only does she have a near-perfect GPA, but she is also deeply involved in teaching, mentoring and volunteering, making her a deserving candidate for this award.
Vasco’s research focuses on mitigating environmental impacts related to horse operations.
Biswadeep Dhar, a doctoral student in family, youth and community sciences, was awarded second place for the Scarborough-Maud Fraser award. This award is granted to students with exemplary service in honor of Mrs. Maud Fraser and her dedicated service to international students.
Dhar is heavily involved within the UF community, serving on multiple boards, student organizations and volunteer programs. Dhar serves as the Vice President of Mayors’ Council for graduate and family student housing, was elected as Secretary and Poster Chair for the Organization for Graduate Student Advancement and Professional Development, mentors new international students through UF NaviGators International and middle school students with the UF Thompsons Earth Systems Institute, and was chosen to serve as a LEADUF coach for Spring 2021.
In addition to his incredible record to lead, teach and mentor, Dhar was recognized for his outstanding academic achievement for his research linking human development and sociobehavioral health relating to chronic diseases.
“We are proud of our international students in CALS,” said CALS associate dean, Al Wysocki,” their unique perspectives, stories, and cultures, enrich the lives of all students, faculty, and staff in CALS.”
0
