Department of Biology Student Awards

The mission of the Biology Department is to prepare students to become exceptional and ethical leaders ready to enter many fields by offering relevant and challenging courses and to engage and mentor. Throughout their study, students learn to live the UIW Mission via Catholic Social Teaching and service to the community, thereby becoming stewards of Creation; fostering life-long learning through research and scholarly activities; facilitating a diverse community; and promoting scientific and educational excellence. The Department of Biology Mission Award is awarded to the graduating senior that has demonstrated overall excellence in academics, research, and service.

The award for Outstanding Academic Performance in Biology is named after Sister Mary Lucy Corcoran, a Professor of Biology at Incarnate Word College. Sister Mary Lucy Corcoran was one of those outstanding Incarnate Word science faculty members who alumni credit for making their career success possible. Professional nurses, scientific researchers and medical practitioners would easily admit that her courses were never easy but served them for a lifetime. Her enthusiasm for the subjects she taught inspired students, but she was aware that the path ahead would be no easier than her classes. Sister Mary Lucy’s life was dedicated to the classroom, the laboratory and student success. In honor of Sister Mary Lucy Corcoran, the Department of Biology presents this award to graduating seniors with outstanding academic performance.

The Award for Outstanding Biology Student in Service is named after Sister Dorothy Ettling. She became acquainted with the Sisters while attending Incarnate Word Academy and entered the Congregation upon graduation from high school. She earned her master’s degree in social work and after a noteworthy career as a social worker, she earned a Ph.D. in Transpersonal Psychology. Sister Dot served as a Professor of Organizational Leadership in the Dreeben School of Education. Her creative energy knew no boundaries and she founded the Center for Civic Leadership, known today as the Ettling Center for Civic Leadership. The Center is dedicated to promoting the common good for those in most need. To honor Sister Dot’s legacy, the Department of Biology presents this award to a graduating senior that demonstrates exceptional leadership in service.

The Award for Outstanding Biology Student in Research is named after Sister Joseph Marie Armer. Annie Armer, a young Baptist woman came to teach at Incarnate Word College after receiving her Ph.D. in Biology from the University of Texas in 1920. In a short period of time, she became a convert, entered the Congregation, and became Sister Joseph Marie Armer. She taught in the Department of Biology at Incarnate Word College and dedicated her career to the advancement of science teaching. Her lectures and labs made biology exciting for majors and non-majors alike, and she motivated countless students to earn advanced degrees and careers in medicine and research. Passionate about science, Sister Armer established the Alamo Regional Science Fair. To honor her legacy, this award is presented to a graduating senior that demonstrates excellence in research.