The work of a nuclear physicist requires continued dedication to unravel the secrets of the universe, and Dr. Jorge Lopez from the University of Texas at El Paso exemplifies these qualities, demonstrated through his reception of the Presidential Award for Excellence in Science, Mathematics and Engineering Mentoring. Lopez, an expert in the field of nuclear physics who specializes in the molecular composition of stars and the geometric formation of nucleons upon cooling, sees this award as a testament to his future work in advancing the field of physics, both in research and in the classroom.

“Showing up, showing up and taking on a leadership role, and showing up and building a legacy are very different things. Be that person who takes it to the next level,” said Dr. Sarita Khemani, a neurosurgery hospitalist at Stanford Medical School and Hospital (Palo Alto, CA) when discussing her primary advice to aspiring physicians.