Kristin Kiriluk Wins Philip Merrill Presidential ScholarAward/ Names
Prof. Beise Her Faculty Mentor

Congratulations to Ms. Kristin Kiriluk, undergraduate physics major and winner of a 2004 Philip Merrill Presidental Scholar Award. This award recognizes 25 of the University's most successful seniors and their designated faculty mentors and K-12 teachers that guided them along their career path. Ms. Kiriluk chose Dr. Elizabeth Beise, professor of physics, as her faculty mentor and Mr. James Klemstine, her 7th grade science teacher at Corkran Middle School , as her K-12 mentor.

Ms. Kiriluk recognizes Dr. Beise because she “provided me with research opportunities at two separate laboratories, which have helped solidify my decision to stay in physics. More importantly, as one of the few women in the field with whom I have had the privilege of working, she has given me hope that there is a place for me in physics as well.”

She also recognizes Mr. Klemstine because he “went out of his way to help me create and implement my first experiment. That first experiment turned into many more…without his initial and continual guidance and support I would not have had many of the scientific experiences that have led me to where I am today.”

As with the other K-12 teachers recognized, a scholarship will also be awarded in Dr. Klemstine's name to a new first-year University of Maryland student from his school district.

Congratulations to Ms. Kiriluk, Dr. Beise and Mr. Klemstine!