Two of the AAPG Foundation’s most popular and inspiring programs have received important upgrades this year – in each case, making them even more valuable to recipients.

Financial awards have increased and new specific emphases have been added for both the annual Inspirational Geoscience Educator Award, and the Deana and Paul Strunk Military Veterans Geoscience Scholarship Program.

Coincidentally, the application period for both of these AAPG Foundation-supported programs is now open.

“Both of these programs reflect essential aspects of the AAPG Foundation’s mission to ensure excellence in geoscience education and in the profession,” said Trustees Chair Jim McGhay, “and with these actions the Trustees want very much to help them remain impactful long into the future.”

Both programs were originally created to “influence geoscience education’s role in building a better future for our profession and our world,” McGhay said, “and also for the Foundation, through them, to help secure excellence in the academic world – both for the educators and for those who seek to learn.”

“We’ve always been proud to support these initiatives, so as we considered the challenging times facing the geoscience arena, our decision to increase our support was both necessary and satisfying,” he added.

McGhay also had another request for Foundation supporters: “Although both of these programs are extremely popular with donors, we typically have difficulty finding applicants each year, so please, contact those you know who may be eligible for either of these grants,” he said.

“We especially need new applicants for the IGEA,” he continued, “and we hope the increase in grant money will get the attention of educators and those familiar with the top educators in the country.”

  • Applications are now being accepted for the Deana and Paul Strunk Military Veterans Geoscience Scholarship Program (MVGSP), among the Foundation’s most popular and respected initiatives.

Two important changes: The scholarship’s monetary value has increased, and there is a very important word added to both its title and purpose. Foundation Trustees in January approved adding “Geoscience” to the title, to emphasize the scholarship’s intent.

Through the MVGSP, the Foundation now annually awards scholarships of up to $10,000 to both active U.S. military service members (including National Guard and Reserves) or honorably discharged veterans who are entering or re-entering a post- secondary undergraduate program in the field of geoscience. Part-time students can receive $5,000.

“We always are honored to say ‘thank you’ to people who have served their country,” McGhay said.

The scholarships are awarded to cover the costs of attending a four-year accredited college or university, helping in the transition to a civilian career in the geosciences.

Eligibility also includes dependents (spouses and children) of military personnel who are deceased, disabled, active and veteran.

“Being able to provide this kind of support is good for the recipients, and worthy of the Foundation’s mission of providing for a strong geoscience future,” McGhay said.

MVGSP applications are being received through April 30. For more information, visit the web page at foundation.aapg. org/How-We-Help/Military-Veterans- Scholarship-Program/About-MVSP.

  • Applications also are being accepted for the Foundation’s Inspirational Geoscience Educator Award.

The annual award honors college and university professors who have creatively and with excellence inspired their geoscience students.

As with the MVGSP, the financial value of the IGEA has increased: Each year, one deserving nominee now will receive a $10,000 award and commemorative plaque from the Foundation, which seeks to honor “the best, most creative and inspirational educators.”

McGhay pointed to the 14 previous IGEA recipients, praising their ability to inspire students who are pursuing careers in the geosciences.

“They have demonstrated real- world, practical impacts far beyond the classroom,” McGhay said of the IGEA recipients, “with a devotion to geoscience education that has attracted national attention.”

“They have not only taught with intelligence and knowledge, but their approaches have personally inspired thousands of students to become better geoscientists,” he said, “and also, better people.

“Quality education today that ensures a stronger energy future for us all – that’s why we’re proud to increase our support for this program.”

IGEA applications are being received through April 15. For more information, visit the web page at foundation.aapg.org/ How-We-Help/Inspirational-Geoscience- Educator-Award/About-IGEA.