News Story

Blair, Awojoodu Named Merrill Scholars

Fischell Department of Bioengineering (BioE) student Anthony Awojoodu and fire protection engineering (FPE) student Alyson Blair have been named 2008-2009 Merrill Presidential Scholars. The program honors the UM’s most successful seniors and their designated UM faculty and K-12 teachers for their mentorship.

In a statement on the Philip Merrill Presidential Scholars web site, Awojoodu explained how his university faculty mentor, Professor Art Johnson (BioE), has influenced his success. "Great teachers are passionate about both the subjects and students they teach," he wrote. "Dr. Arthur Johnson…has been one of my most important mentors at Maryland. He enables students to solve problems successfully and to see how engineers must approach theoretical and real-life problems to maintain their credibility, professionalism, and moral standards. Dr. Johnson’s creativity and liveliness in the classroom demonstrate his passion for education. His approachability and knowledge make him a great source of advice for engineering and other areas of education."

Blair credited Prof. Jim Milke in FPE. "Dr. James Milke has played an instrumental role in my decision to pursue fire protection engineering," she said. "After seeing fire demonstrations and listening to his speech about the causes of September 11th, I was fascinated and knew that I wanted to learn more. Dr. Milke was one of the people who influenced my decision to come to the University of Maryland. He has inspired me to share my love of the fire protection program with prospective students at open houses. As my advisor and professor, he has helped guide my career at the University. "

July 29, 2008