Spring Chemistry & Biochemistry Awards

Cosme Morales was awarded the Outstanding Biochemistry BA Graduate award for having the highest PA in his program and for being awarded the departmental honor of “Distinction in Academics”. He comes from a salt of the earth, working-class family, a mix of Spanish and Mexican heritage. He grew up in Colorado Springs and is proud to say that he developed a sense of self in the small business culture. During his educational journey as a non-traditional student, he was greatly encouraged by the mentors and instructors that accompanied his path through UCCS and PPSC. He can now add biochemistry to his life’s passions that include family, art, and community. His overall career goal is to become a Doctor of Neurology and use his undergraduate education to conduct research in multiple sclerosis.

Chloe Bailey was awarded the Outstanding Biochemistry BS Graduate award for having the highest GPA in her program and for being awarded the departmental honor of “Distinction in Academics”. Chloe started her Biochemistry degree as a concurrent enrollment student at PPCC and transferred to UCCS in the fall of 2021. Between rock climbing, doing jigsaw puzzles, and making jewelry, she has participated in undergraduate research with Dr. Andrew Klocko, acted as Treasurer of the Chemistry and Biochemistry Club, and received multiple awards for academic achievement. After graduation, she plans to work in a biochemistry or analytical chemistry laboratory and complete medical internships to build up her experience and knowledge prior to applying for medical school.

Laurique Hughes was awarded the Outstanding Chemistry BS Graduate award for having the highest GPA in her program and for being awarded the departmental honor of “Honors in Academics and Research”. Laurique came to UCCS in 2019 after moving to Colorado with her military family. During her first semester she took General Chemistry I with Dr. Janel Owens and immediately fell in love with chemistry as a field. Throughout her time at UCCS, Laurique has cultivated this passion by being involved in the Biochemistry & Chemistry Club, volunteering at outreach events, and conducting research under the tutelage of Dr. Tvrdy, investigating hydrogel purification of single-walled carbon nanotubes. While in Dr. Tvrdy’s lab, she was selected for the Undergraduate Research Academy 2022 cohort along with the 2023-2024 Graduate Research Fellowship. After graduation, she is going to continue her academic journey by pursuing a Master of Science degree in chemistry at UCCS.