The Annual Physics Department Picnic was the scene of several suprise awards including three John G. Whitcomb Distinguished Physics Staff Awards and a University Distinguished Staff Award.

Lindsey Thaler was surprised by former Physics staffer, Jack Miner and other members of the University Distinguished Staff committee and presented with a University Distinguished Staff Award.  Lindsey joins a long list of extraordinary physics staff members who have been bestowed this award. See http://physics.osu.edu/john-g-whitcomb-distinguished-staff-awardees for a complete list of Department awardees and many of those who have received the university award. The University award includes a cash award, an increase in salary, a luncheon and recognition on the field at an OSU home football game.  Congratulations Lindsey for this well deserved honor.

Three staff members were also recognized for distinguished service to the department of Physics.  They are:

Mallory Aliff, Brad Hefner and Rebecca Daskalova.  These three received an art glass trophy, a certificate and a $750.00 cash award.  They were all nominated by peers, faculty and students and chosen by a committee consisting of the department Chair, Vice Chairs and direct reports to the chair.

Congratulations also to Honorable mention awardees:  Matt Barber (he was still officially a staff member in Physics during the nomination process) and Shelley Palmer.