Dr. Lance Tatum, President | Northwest Missouri State University
Dr. Lance Tatum, President | Northwest Missouri State University
Northwest Missouri State University alumnus Hunter Weakley has been honored with the O.R. Grawe Award by the Association of Missouri Geologists. This recognition marks him as the university's 11th recipient in a span of 25 years, and he is the second consecutive awardee from Northwest.
Weakley, who completed his bachelor's degree in geology last summer, expressed surprise and gratitude upon receiving the award. "I was really surprised," he said. "I was pretty happy that I actually got it and very happy that my professors nominated me for it."
The O.R. Grawe Award is named after Oliver Rudolph “O.R.” Grawe, the association's first president. It is presented annually to an outstanding junior or senior geology major in Missouri based on several criteria including nomination letters, personal statements, academic transcripts, and faculty recommendations.
Weakley's nomination came from Jeff Bradley and Dr. Onema Adojoh of Northwest's Department of Natural Sciences. Bradley commented on Weakley's achievements: “The O.R. Grawe is awarded to outstanding geology students who have demonstrated excellence in and out of the classroom,” adding that Weakley exemplifies this level of excellence through his academic work and involvement in undergraduate research.
Award recipients receive an engraved Brunton pocket transit and case, a plaque, a certificate of recognition, and a $300 cash stipend. Following his award reception, Weakley attended the Association's 71st annual meeting held on October 11-12 in Warrensburg, Missouri.
Reflecting on his experience at the meeting, Weakley noted the opportunity to connect with fellow geologists interested in local geology around Kansas City. He stated: “There is still much to learn about local geology... It was wonderful to see many new sites.”
Currently exploring employment opportunities, Weakley also plans to pursue graduate studies to deepen his expertise in specific areas of geology. During his time at Northwest, he was active in Geo Club and Sigma Gamma Epsilon.
The Association of Missouri Geologists aims to promote geology and geoscience education within Missouri through its network of professional and academic members across various institutions.
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