Approximately 28 of the 51 registrants braved the less than ideal weather conditions and in true business like manner came to Genitti's Hole-In-The-Wall restaurant on February 6, 2008 to honor the recipients of the "2008 Best Student Award". Annually, since 1984, The Michigan Industrial Hygiene Society has been recognizing academic excellence from each of the areas two universities offering graduate industrial hygiene degrees.

Preceding the awards presentation, Donald Hart, PhD, CIH, the current American Industrial Hygiene Association President and long time Michigan Industrial Hygiene Society member, made an excellent and very interesting presentation on Industrial Hygiene Careers. Dr. Hart described how he got started in the industrial hygiene profession and how through his continued involvement advanced through AIHA, ultimately leading to the organization's Presidency. He continued with some guidance and offered a plan for success for the future leaders in the occupational and environmental health and safety profession.

Receiving the award for Wayne State University was Nehal Shah. Ms. Shah completed her MS degree and Graduate Safety Certificate requirements in 2007. At Wayne she was active in the student organization, serving as the WSUIHSA President in 2006-2007. She is a currently seeking employment in the field. Making the presentation was Dr. Edward Kerfoot, WSU Occupational and Environmental Health Science Program Chairman.

Receiving the award for The University of Michigan was Collin Work. Mr. Work has completed his industrial hygiene studies and is considering continuation his studies and pursuing a PhD degree. Making the presentation of the award to Mr. Work was Dr. John Meeker, Professor, University of Michigan.

The Michigan Industrial Hygiene Society presented each of the recipients a certificate and coupon that is redeemable for a $200 discount for the MIHS-AIHA Certification Review Course. Additionally each student received an MIHS coffee mug and Cross pen with the MIHS logo.

The MIHS wishes Ms. Shah and Mr. Work good luck in their future professional careers, pursuits and endeavors and requests that they continue to stay active in professional organizational activities.

Thank you to Dr. Bill Watt for providing the pictures.