Les Bender Receives Distinguished Achievement Award

Dr. Les Bender was presented with the Distinguished Achievement Award for his exceptional work as a Research Scientist in the College of Geosciences. Dean Kate Miller acknowledged Les' contributions during the Fall College Meeting on October 29, 2009.

In addition to a framed certificate, Les received a $1,200 bursary to aid in his research. Dr. Norman Guinasso, Director of GERG, is quoted as saying "I have great respect for the research and service performed by Dr. Les Bender and it is a pleasure working with him. His work at GERG has enhanced the national reputation of the College of Geosciences and he deserves recognition." Many of Les' associates wrote letters enthusiastically supporting Les' nomination. Dr. Robert (Buzz) Martin, Director of R&D and Scientific Support at TGLO, noted that "The success of TABS...now the largest, operational current measuring and forecasting system in the United States dedicated to oil spill response...is due, in large part, to Les' skill and dedication." Dr. Hendrik Tolman, Branch Chief, Marine Modeling and Analysis Branch of NOAA said that he has "always been impressed with his original thinking and with his willingness to not accept established methodologies, techniques and beliefs on face value, while in the mean time having a very solid understanding of the basics and principles involved." Dr. Theodore Mettlach, at NDBC, has been "greatly impressed by Dr. Bender's professional integrity, his energy and his commitment to scientific discovery." Les is an essential member of the GERG team. His coworkers at GERG join the other members of the College of Geosciences to congratulate him on a job well done.