UTSA biochemist Andrew Tsin receives presidential award for mentoring excellence

UTSA Professor Andrew Tsin

By Kris Rodriguez
Public Affairs Specialist

(Nov. 16, 2011) -- Andrew Tsin, UTSA professor of biochemistry and physiology, is among 17 individuals and organizations selected to receive the Presidential Award for Excellence in Science, Mathematics and Engineering Mentoring. Tsin, the only Texan among the honorees, will receive his award at a White House ceremony later this year.

Awarded by the White House to individuals and organizations, the award recognizes the crucial role of mentoring in the academic and personal development of students studying science and engineering -- particularly those from groups underrepresented in these fields. By offering their expertise and encouragement, mentors help prepare the next generation of scientists and engineers while ensuring that tomorrow's innovators reflect and benefit from the diverse talent of the United States.

"Through their commitment to education and innovation, these individuals and organizations are playing a crucial role in the development of our 21st century workforce," said President Barack Obama. "Our nation owes them a debt of gratitude for helping ensure that America remains the global leader in science and engineering for years to come.

Candidates for the award are nominated by colleagues, administrators and students in their home institutions. The mentoring can involve students at any grade level from elementary through graduate school. In addition to being honored at the White House, recipients receive awards of $25,000 from the National Science Foundation to advance their mentoring efforts. The mentors and organizations represent the winners for 2010 and 2011.

Tsin's nomination for the award was submitted by George Perry, dean of the UTSA College of Sciences and professor of biology, and Terri Krakower, CRTS associate director of research initiatives.

"The White House award recognizes Dr. Tsin's 30 year commitment to effective education and mentoring of underrepresented students," said Perry. "UTSA, specifically the College of Sciences, is fortunate to have his leadership."

Tsin is a nationally recognized biochemist with a 30-year history of mentoring students who are from minority and other underrepresented groups. Under his leadership, more than 100 undergraduate and graduate students have completed their degrees and either continued their education or taken on positions as scientific researchers, physicians or educators.

Additionally, as founding director of the UTSA Center for Research and Training in the Sciences (CRTS), Tsin helped secure more than $52 million in grants to support research and training programs for underrepresented minorities.

"I am elated to learn of this honor for UTSA," said Tsin. "It speaks highly of the outstanding quality of our STEM education and training programs in the College of Sciences."