May 18th, 2011
The first Department of Genetics graduation ceremony and awarding of Bachelor of Science degrees in Genetics is over 50 years in the making. A Faculty of Genetics was formed at NC State in 1951 by Dr. Stanley G. Stephens. Subsequently, the Department of Genetics was founded in 1958 and moved to what is now Thomas Hall in 1966. Although the first graduate degrees in Genetics were awarded in 1952, it wasn't until 1988 that an undergraduate minor in Genetics was offered, which has since become the most popular minor at NC State.
The drive for a major in Genetics was initiated by a student-led petition over 10 years ago, and under the guidance of Dr. Stephanie Curtis, Director of Academic Programs in the Department of Genetics, a new Bachelor of Science in Genetics was approved by the UNC Board of Governors in 2010. The inaugural class had five graduates.
Sarah Compton completed her degree with majors in Genetics, Microbiology, and Biological Science with a concentration in Human Genetics, all with Honors. Sarah graduated Magna Sum Laude and will be pursuing a medical degree.
Philip Thayer completed his degree with a major in Genetics and minors in Biotechnology and Nutrition. Philip graduated Summa Cum Laude and will be entering a PhD program in Genetics and Genomics at Duke University.
Sruthi Sridhar completed her degree with majors in Genetics and Biological Sciences with a concentration in Human Genetics, both with Honors. Sruthi graduated Summa Cum Laude and will be continuing working as a researcher until entering medical school.
Lauren Trott completed her degree with majors in Genetics and Biological Sciences. Lauren graduated Cum Laude and will be pursuing a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine at NC State.
Kim Wagner completed her degree with majors in Genetics and Biochemistry. Kim will be attending graduate school in genomics.
The Chancellor Carey Bostian Scholarship, given to the Genetics minor each year with the most outstanding record in academics, leadership and service, was awarded to Christine Standahl. Christine was a Park Scholar and completed degrees in Biological Sciences and International Studies as well as a minor in Genetics. Christine will be pursuing a medical degree at the University of Virginia School of Medicine.
In addition to the first undergraduate majors, Master of Genetics degrees were awarded to:
Ginger Edwardsen who will be attending the University of South Carolina to obtain a degree in Genetic Counseling.
Michelle Evans who will continue at an Internal Technology Transfer Scientist with Expression Analysis.
Julie Horsting who will be attending Indiana University School of Medicine to obtain a degree in Medical Genetics and Genetic Counseling.
Denah McCormick who will continue with a biotechnology company in the Triangle area.
