Honoring a legacy of excellence

A new award in Auburn University’s College of Sciences and Mathematics honors a leader whose influence helped shape the college and the students who continue that legacy. 

The Dean Schneller Award recognizes graduating seniors who represent the best of COSAM, both in the classroom and in the community. The award honors Stewart Schneller, former dean of COSAM and professor of chemistry and biochemistry. 

Schneller joined Auburn in 1994, just eight years after COSAM was established. Over nearly 17 years as dean, he helped guide the young college through a period of rapid growth. Under his leadership, COSAM expanded its research profile while maintaining a strong commitment to undergraduate teaching. 

After stepping down as dean in 2010, Schneller returned to the classroom, where he became a beloved instructor of organic chemistry and mentor to generations of students. 

He also remained an active scientist throughout his career. His research program in antiviral drug discovery secured more than $10 million in external funding and produced more than 160 scientific publications. Along the way, he mentored dozens of doctoral students and postdoctoral researchers. 

For many faculty members and students, however, Schneller’s greatest legacy lies in the culture of curiosity, mentorship and collaboration he helped build within the college. 

“Stewart Schneller made a lasting impact across COSAM because he cared deeply about this college and the people in it,” said Edward Thomas, COSAM dean and professor of physics. “He was an accomplished scientist and leader, but also the kind of teacher and mentor students remembered. This award honors students who reflect that same spirit of excellence, character and service.” 

The inaugural finalists reflect the many ways COSAM students pursue excellence, from laboratory research and field science to mentorship and community engagement. 

Parker Ensminger, Biomedical Sciences

Biomedical sciences major Parker Ensminger pairs a strong research background with deep involvement in the COSAM community. As a member of the college’s COSAM Leaders program, he helps represent the college through campus tours, outreach events and programs that connect prospective students and alumni with COSAM. 

Ensminger also conducts undergraduate research with Assistant Professor of Physics Mohtadin Hashemi, studying how proteins interact with DNA using specialized imaging tools that allow scientists to observe processes at the molecular level. His work has earned both the Auburn Undergraduate Research Fellowship and the Honors College Research Fellowship and is contributing to research being prepared for publication. Through his leadership and willingness to support others, Ensminger reflects the spirit of service and mentorship that defined Schneller’s career. 

Naomi Kerschen, Geosciences

Geosciences major Naomi Kerschen has become a familiar leader within the department. She serves as a Learning Assistant and co-president of the GeoClub while helping strengthen the sense of community among undergraduate students. 

Known for her approachable mentoring style, Kerschen regularly organizes exam review sessions and helps fellow students work through complex geoscience concepts. She has also demonstrated strong field research potential during the department’s advanced field geology course, an intensive program that takes students across Wyoming, Colorado, Utah and New Mexico. Her ability to support peers while pursuing her own scientific interests reflects the collaborative spirit Schneller encouraged within the college. 

Will McCurley, Mathematics and Physics

A double major in mathematics and physics, Will McCurley has distinguished himself through advanced research in theoretical and computational physics. 

Working with Assistant Professor Yinong Zhou, McCurley studies the behavior of emerging quantum materials using advanced computational tools. After independently learning the background needed for the project, he developed his own models and software to analyze how these materials behave at the atomic level. His work has produced promising results and is expected to lead to a first author publication. 

His work reflects the spirit of curiosity and scientific discovery that Schneller championed throughout his career. 

Together, the finalists reflect the qualities the award was created to recognize — intellectual curiosity, leadership, generosity toward others and a commitment to advancing science and mathematics.