Genetics students Megan McKeon and Ben Hall received the prestigious Schlimgen Award and the Chair’s Broader Impact Award, respectively.
The Schlimgen Award is awarded annually to recognize outstanding scholarship and exceptional research performance in the Genetics program. The award was established in memory of Genetics graduate student Katie Schlimgen, PhD 1999, by her family. During her time in the Genetics program, Katie has been described as fiercely determined and exceptionally innovative while demonstrating an intense commitment to excellence. Her work in Professor Emeritus Dr. Barry Ganetzky’s lab was both complex and influential, and she had high expectations for the lab’s output.

Megan received the award based on her commitment to excellence in research and consistent contributions to the vitality and health of her community. Her research on Cryptococcus spore germination changed the way the field views how infectious spores survive in diverse environments, including the mammalian lung, advancing this critical area of study to an unprecedented degree in the medical mycology field. Additionally, Megan is known for her excellent science communication skills and efforts, highly effective mentoring, and exceptional leadership.
The Chair’s Broader Impact Award is awarded annually to recognize outstanding service to the program, department, and/or outreach to the community. Ben received the award based on his many contributions to the community and the Genetics program.

Ben has advised numerous students, post-doctorates, and others while also collaborating with several labs within the department. He volunteered as a Science Olympiad coach for West High students on genetics and cell biology for three years. He led several stations for science communications efforts, such as the UW Science Expeditions, UW Family Gardening Day, and Darwin Day.
Additionally, Ben made many contributions to the Genetics Ph. D. program, such as serving on the graduate student committee for two years, where he helped plan events to build community among Genetics students. He was also a regular volunteer for the Genetics graduate program recruiting and was a member and facilitator for the Scientific Accountability in Genetics working group.