LAWRENCEVILLE, NJ (06/14/2012)(readMedia)-- Douglas Sturgis '83 of Kingwood, Texas, was one of the two notable Rider University alumni inducted into the Science Stairway of Fame on June 9 during Reunion Weekend activities on the Lawrenceville campus. The honor was also bestowed upon Dr. Judith Neubauer '72 of Princeton, N.J.
Dr. Joseph Nadeau, dean emeritus of the CLAES, and professor emeritus of Geological, Environmental, and Marine Sciences, recognized Sturgis during an afternoon ceremony. Sturgis, who received a degree in Geology from Rider, also holds a master's degree in Geology from Bowling Green State University. With expertise in subsurface exploration using 4D seismic interpretation technology, Sturgis has parlayed his Rider education into a successful international career in geosciences management. During the majority of his career at ExxonMobil, he has served as a geoscientist, production technical advisor and exploration supervisor in Europe, North Africa and Malaysia. He currently lives in Houston where he works as a geosciences advisor, providing expert guidance to exploration teams in Nigeria, Angola, Equatorial Guinea and Chad.
Sturgis recalled the Geosciences professors' commitment to bring out the best in their students.
"I'm honored to be presented with this award," Sturgis said. "I'm grateful for the outstanding education I received at Rider."
The Science Stairway of Fame, located in the research wing of the Science and Technology Center, honors individuals who were exemplary students and have achieved significant professional success in their chosen careers following graduation. The honorees are also loyal and generous supporters of Rider's science programs.
"These alums represent the best of what Rider University, specifically, a Rider science education offers. They worked closely with our faculty, excelled as students, and become accomplished citizens of the broader world. Since leaving Rider, they have built amazing and successful careers in basic medical research and geosciences," said Dr. Laura Hyatt, associate dean for science. "Today's honorees provide important and varied role models for our students who will walk past their plaques each day."