Dean Stephen Z.D. Cheng Award in Polymer Science and Polymer Engineering

Dr. Stephen Z.D. Cheng, former dean of the College of Polymer Science & Engineering (PSPE), and in his academic role as The Frank C. Sullivan Distinguished Research Professor, Robert C. Musson Professor and Trustees’ Professor Emeritus, is a globally renowned research scholar in polymer science. As dean, he introduced new programs expanding how students could enroll, and elevated the reputation of the college and faculty through his personal interactions and academic reputation. He brought into the college a host of innovation practices, and supported students in their academic and research endeavors. It is in recognition of the tradition he so capably demonstrated in his own work that he now establishes The Dean Stephen Z.D. Cheng Award in Polymer Science and Polymer Engineering.

Annually, the chair of the Department of Polymer Science and the Chair of the Department of Polymer Engineering will accept nominations from faculty for the recipient of The Dean Stephen Z.D. Cheng Award in Polymer Science and Polymer Engineering.

Eligible students must be in their fourth or fifth year of doctoral studies and be in good academic standing. Student nominations may be made by faculty and should include short descriptions of the student’s area of interest, and why the nominee is worthy of the award. Nominations should be made prior to April 15, with department chairs determining and announcing the recipient in each department by the end of that same month.

The award amount will be determined by Dr. Cheng’s gift each year, with an equal amount going to each recipient. The award may be used in whatever manner the recipient chooses.

Each recipient is required to communicate with Dr. Cheng on receiving the award within three weeks by email or manner preferred by Dr. Cheng. Each recipient may, at their option, list the receipt of this award in their curriculum vitae.

The recipient will allow the college and The University of Akron to acknowledge the award distribution via appropriate publicity and media channels.

Each recipient will be responsible for any taxable consequences associated with the award.