Daniel Schwartz Wins Highest U.S. Award for STEM Mentors

Credit: University of Washington
Credit: University of Washington

AIChE member Daniel Schwartz, a University of Washington professor and the director of the Clean Energy Institute, received the Presidential Award for Excellence in Science, Mathematics, and Engineering Mentoring (PAESMEM) from the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy and the National Science Foundation earlier this summer.

He was recognized for his commitment to interdisciplinary graduate education and his dedication to supporting Native American STEM scholars at the University of Washington. He is also the founding director of the Clean Energy Institute, which supports the advancement of next-generation solar energy and battery materials and devices, as well as their integration with systems and the grid. CEI has supported 152 graduate fellows pursuing clean energy research at the University of Washington, with the support of funds from Washington state. Fellows receive professional development training, network with industry professionals and top researchers from around the world, and lead K-12 STEM outreach programs for state schools.

“I’m proud to join this cadre of dedicated educators and mentors helping students become leading scientists and engineers,” said Schwartz. “Focusing on clean energy science, engineering, and resource management at UW has brought top students from across the country to Seattle, where they have partnered with Northwest tribes and businesses to ensure the future of energy is being created here.”

Schwartz and other award recipients traveled to Washington, D.C., to receive the PAESMEM in June, and also participated in the White House State-Federal STEM Summit to identify educational priorities for the nation.

See the press release from the University of Washington about Dr. Schwartz.