The Michigan Industrial Hygiene Society has been recognizing the academic achievements of students from the University of Michigan and Wayne State University since 1984 and this year was no exception. On February 14, 2006, at the Italian Epicure Restaurant's Banquet Center, the MIHS honored two students pursuing advanced degrees in industrial hygiene.

This year's Student Awards Night was a deviation from past practice. Prior to the awards ceremony, several MIHS members provided a brief description and discussion of IH practice in their respective industry. Providing an overview of IH practice for the Chemical Industry was Tracy Parsons; Dan Maser informed the attendees about the industrial hygienist's role in the Consulting Industry; an overview of Government IH was provided by Robert Pawlowski; a review of Institutional IH practice was provided by Lisa Quiggle; Insurance Industry IH practice was covered by Rich McLonis and Terry Fisk; and completing the program was Bill Watt describing industrial hygiene in Manufacturing. Cocktails and dinner followed these interesting and informative presentations, with the awards presentations, made by the university faculty, immediately after dinner.

This year's awardee from Wayne State University is Nicole Ivers. Nicole received an MS degree in December 2005 and is currently working as an Environmental Scientist and Health & Safety Coordinator for Camp, Dresser & McKee (CDM) in Kennesaw, Georgia. In addition to the MIHS award, Nicole was one of the 2004 recipients of the 3M Industrial Hygiene Scholarship. Additionally Nicole was the Outstanding Student of the Year for 2005, and recipient of the 2005 Academic Achievement Award from Wayne State's Occupational and Environmental Health Sciences Department (OEHS).

Wayne State University recognized two additional OEHS students. Pat Boley and Vita Gray received departmental honors and recognition for their academic achievement.

Prior to pursuing a degree in industrial hygiene, Gerry Houvener, this year's awardee from the University of Michigan, spent six years as a US Navy electrician. Following his discharge, Gerry completed both undergraduate and graduate degrees in mathematics and math education from Central Michigan University and Western Michigan University respectively. Additionally, Gerry has accumulated extensive experience (20+ years) in the commercial nuclear power field as a radiation health and safety officer and as a QA auditor. Other experience that Gerry will bring to his next employer include teacher and trainer / instructor. Upon completion of his IH studies Gerry hopes secure a job in Washington DC area as a research analyst for IH/Safety issues.

From the MIHS, best wishes, good luck, and success to all of our student members in all of their future endeavors.