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When Gianna Cologna ’25, ’26 M.S. began an immersive research project this summer as part of the University’s Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowship program, their goal was to develop a library of compounds and to gain experience in lab research. Their project and presentation served as an invaluable learning experience. It also earned Cologna recognition in the University community – as well as one of the University’s most prestigious student awards.

A forensic science major who will pursue a master’s degree in chemistry as part of the University’s direct-entry dual-degree program, Cologna conducted their research under the mentorship of Pier Cirillo, Ph.D. The project, titled “Synthesis of a Library of Dibenzo-Azocine-Diones for General High-Throughput Screening,” explored structures that have, thus far, been underexplored and may be of interest in the medicinal chemistry field.

As part of the project, Cologna performed five dozen experiments in just 10 weeks, organizing the data and then presenting the findings to the University community. Cologna recently addressed the University community again – this time, to accept the prestigious Bucknall Family Undergraduate Research or Experiential Learning Award.

“I learned so much from Dr. Cirillo’s guidance, and I’m honored to be here,” said Cologna, who serves as a teaching assistant for chemistry and as a lab assistant in the University’s chemistry lab, at the University’s recognition ceremony. “I thoroughly enjoyed my research exploring medicinal chemistry.”

‘I am so honored’

Established in 2019, the award recognizes and rewards undergraduate students’ outstanding research or experiential learning achievements. It was created by William L. Bucknall Jr. ’63, ’65, ’08 Hon., an emeritus member and former chair of the University’s Board of Governors, and his daughters Kristin Loranger and Elise Bucknall. It provides a $10,000 prize to each recipient, encouraging students to take on the challenge of in-depth research on important topics.

The Bucknall family also supports a prestigious award for faculty: the William L. Bucknall Excellence in Teaching Award. Created in 2015, the award recognizes exceptional educators for their devotion to helping students excel in and out of the classroom. It provides an honorarium of $15,000 and an additional $10,000 to support the recipient’s new teaching initiatives.

This year’s recipient, Lauren Boasso, Ph.D., was recognized with Cologna as part of the ceremony, as members of the Bucknall family looked on. A senior lecturer of English and director of the University’s Writing Center, Dr. Boasso endeavors to encourage students to be informed and engaged, designing interactive assignments that encourage students to connect their coursework and their future careers. She’s also passionate about helping students develop their confidence – both as writers and as individuals.

“I’ve admired my colleagues who have received this award, and I am so honored to join them,” said Dr. Boasso, who also serves as the English Department’s internship coordinator. “I love working with students, and I’m grateful for their willingness to experiment and get out of their comfort zones. They inspire me.”

‘The humanities meet the sciences’

Several of the University’s previous Bucknall Excellence in Teaching Award recipients, such as Bruno Barreto de Góes, Ph.D., Kristine Horvat, Ph.D., and Mary Isbell, Ph.D., showed their support at the ceremony. The event brought together faculty, staff, students, and, even, Dr. Boasso’s former students. Sheahon Zenger, Ph.D., interim president of the University, praised Dr. Boasso and Cologna and congratulated them on their achievements.

“One of the great things about the University is the focus on experiential learning,” he said. “To have the humanities meet the sciences at this ceremony is really special. You represent the best of what we have at the University.”

For Cologna, their research journey is just beginning. As they continue their education at the University, Cologna plans to expand their research to include forensic science as well as medicinal chemistry.

“I joined the University for forensics, and I plan to pursue more research,” they said. “I look forward to pursuing research in the field of forensic science.”