Austin native Matthew Morriss receives award upon graduation from Whitman College

WALLA WALLA, WA (06/05/2013)(readMedia)-- Matthew Morriss of Austin, Texas was honored with an award upon his graduation from Whitman College in Walla Walla, Wash.

Morriss was selected as a recipient of the Albert Ripley Leeds Prize for Excellence in Geology, which was established to recognize students with outstanding potential in the study of geological sciences.

In addition, Morriss was elected as a new member of the Whitman chapter national research society Sigma Xi. This honor is given to students who have completed original research in either the pure or applied sciences. Whitman's Sigma Xi chapter was established in 1962.

Morriss is a 2009 graduate of St. Stephen's Episcopal School. He received a B.A. in Geology during the Whitman commencement ceremony on Sunday, May 19.

Whitman College is an independent, non-sectarian residential college fostering intellectual vitality, confidence and leadership in its 1,450 students. Also noted for its commitment to environmental principles, Whitman is characterized by intellect, down-to-earth sensibilities, collaboration over competition and an active lifestyle.