During the Department of Physics' annual Spring Picnic, three awards are presented: the John G. Whitcomb Distinguished Staff Award, Outstanding Lecturer Award, and Exceptional Postdoctoral Scholar in Physics Award.

The first honor, the John G. Whitcomb Distinguished Staff Award, recognizes exceptional accomplishments, leadership, and service to the department's missions of research, teaching, and service. This year, three recipients were selected; each receiving a cash bonus and a trophy presented by Department Chair, Ralf Bundschuh. The 2026 awardees, nominated by their peers, are Nat Paterson, Lizeth Rascon, and Ann Elliot. Congratulations, and thank you for your outstanding contributions to the department.

The Outstanding Lecturer Award is presented to lecturers and senior lecturers with at least one year of service, recognizing exemplary contributions to the Department of Physics. This award was presented by Vice Chair for Administration, Andrew Heckler. This year's recipient is Pedram Boghrat. Congratulations, and thank you for your dedication to teaching and service.

The final honor, the new Exceptional Postdoctoral Scholar in Physics Award, recognizes postdoctoral scholars who exemplify excellence in department research, mentorship, and service. Open to all those with at least six months of service in the department, this award was presented by the Vice Chair for Graduate Studies and Postdoctoral Affairs, Jay Gupta. This year's recipients are Larissa Boie and William Luszczak. Congratulations, and thank you for your valuable contributions to the department!