Griffin Reed ’16
Gustavus Adolphus College senior Griffin Reed has been named the 2016 winner of the Glenn T. Seaborg Science Award by the Swedish Council of America (SCA). The award is given annually to an outstanding science or mathematics student from one of six U.S. colleges with Scandinavian heritage that maintain an active connection with modern Scandinavia through language study, student exchange programs, and cultural events.
The award will allow Reed to travel to Sweden in December and attend the Stockholm International Youth Science Seminar as well as several events during Nobel Prize Week including the Nobel Reception and the Nobel Prize Award Ceremony.
Reed, a biology honors major who will graduate summa cum laude, is excited to return to Sweden for the Nobel festivities after doing molecular cardiology research at the Karolinska Institute in Stockholm last summer.
“The two biggest aspects of winning the Seaborg Award are the opportunity to represent Gustavus and the United States at the Nobel Prize Ceremony and for me to reconnect with Sweden,” Reed said. “I’m excited to return to Stockholm and thankful to the SCA for selecting me for this award.”
A native of Mantorville, Minn., Reed has done summer research at the Mayo Clinic, worked with Gustavus professor Jeff Jeremiason, and is producing a thesis on the ethical and societal implications of new genetic techniques with professor Sanjive Qazi.
“Griffin has a natural curiosity about the world that has been clear in all of my interactions with him, both inside and outside of class,” Interim Associate Provost and Dean of Science and Education Brenda Kelly said. “He doesn’t just ask questions to do well on an exam – he is curious about how things work and the intersections of different disciplines, and consistently seeks out new knowledge and experiences to satisfy his curiosity.”
Reed did research in Stockholm last summer.
Reed is involved on campus as a Collegiate Fellow residence hall adviser, member of the Sigma Alpha Epsilon fraternity, the Pre-Health Club, and the Elders program. He also is working with the Gustavus Heart Safe project and will compete in this year’s Gustie Entrepeneur Cup.
“Griffin is the quintessential example of a well-rounded student,” Gustavus Director of Residential Life Charlie Potts said. “His commitment to developing as a student, as a leader, and as an engaged member of the Gustavus community makes him a terrific example of someone who is taking full advantage of the opportunities Gustavus provides.”
After graduation, Reed plans to attend medical school at Dartmouth College in Hanover, N.H. Although he’s excited for the next adventure, he’ll miss the community that he has been such a big part of at Gustavus.
“Gusties have been incredible teachers and role models for me both inside and outside the classroom,” Reed said. “They’ve helped shape me into a better student and person, and I feel very fortunate for the time that I’ve been able to spend with them at Gustavus.”
For more information about the Gustavus Fellowships Office and the support it gives to students in securing national awards, scholarships, and fellowships, please visit the fellowship website.
The Glenn T. Seaborg Award was established in 1979 in honor of chemist and Nobel laureate Dr. Glenn T. Seaborg who discovered or co-discovered numerous atomic elements, including atomic element number 106, officially named Seaborgium in his honor in 1994. Dr. Seaborg held many distinguished positions including serving as chair of the Atomic Energy Commission under President John F. Kennedy. Dr. Seaborg was also a Chairman Emeritus of the Swedish Council of America.
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Media Contact: Director of Media Relations and Internal Communication Luc Hatlestad
luch@gustavus.edu
507-933-7510
Amazing!