Senior Brandon Ackley has a passion for chemistry and a love of inspiring others to learn about its many real-world benefits.
Those qualities helped lead to the chemistry major’s selection to represent BSU as part of this year’s “29 Who Shine,” an annual state program that recognizes a student from each of Massachusetts' public campuses who has shown academic achievement, leadership, and community service.
Mr. Ackley, who will receive his award at a May 14 State House ceremony, said he was “completely floored” when he learned that he had been nominated by the Chemistry Department and was “very excited” to be selected.
In addition to compiling a stellar grade point average, he has been active on campus as a volunteer in a program that exposes area high school students to BSU’s chemistry lab. He is also vice president of the Students for Sustainability, a member of the Chemistry Club, and a former resident assistant.
“The thing I love about chemistry is that there is always something new and exciting to do,” said the Millis High School graduate, who is most enthused at learning about practical new discoveries in the field.
"Application is what makes good chemistry,” he said.
Following graduation, Mr. Ackley plans to pursue his doctorate in chemistry at the University of Vermont, with the hope of becoming a chemistry professor in Massachusetts. (Photo by Steve Rowell, University News)