By April Mulherin, assistant director of media relations (Winter 2008 issue)

Thirteen students conducting undergraduate research projects were named 2007 Michael D. Wilson Research Scholars and Fellows by the newly formed UMF Undergraduate Research Council. Each student’s original research project receives funding that underwrites expenses and helps encourage and promote continuing academic investigation. The awards are funded by a generous gift from Michael and Susan Angelides of Stonington, Conn., in honor of their good friend Michael D. Wilson ’76, who died shortly after graduating.

The Wilson program, which in 2007 distributed inaugural monetary awards to 27 single-semester Wilson Research Scholar projects, has been expanded to include two additional full-year Wilson Research Fellow awards to support more substantive research projects. “Supporting undergraduate research at UMF promotes the highest level of learning,” said David Heroux, assistant professor of chemistry and chair of the UMF Undergraduate Research Council. “The combination of original, student-driven research and rich student-faculty relationships highlights UMF’s best work and enhances the liberal arts experience.”

The 2007 Michael D. Wilson Research Scholars are Hunter Basselet, Adam Case, Joshua Case, Holly Castle, Tara Gagnon, Laura Lalemand, Brian London, Christopher Pillsbury, Aline Potvin, Margaret Reid and Samuel Valentine. Monica Hall and Katelyn Michaud were named Michael D. Wilson Research Fellows.

In addition to pledging funds for the Michael D. Wilson Research Scholars and Fellows, Michael and Susan Angelides are also underwriting Michael D. Wilson Symposium, a University-wide celebration on April 15 and 16, 2008, where students will showcase the results of their undergraduate research and creative achievements.

Details of each Wilson Scholar and Wilson Fellow research project are available online at www.farmington.edu/news/release.php?id=3041