DURHAM, N.C. 鈥 In advance of commencement weekend, 91社区福利鈥檚 Nicholas School of the Environment (NSOE) prepares to recognize 57 undergraduates at a diploma ceremony that will take place at Duke鈥檚 Wilson Recreation Center on Saturday, May 11, 2024 at 9 a.m.

The graduates鈥 concentrations span earth and ocean sciences, environmental sciences and policy, along with marine science and conservation. Twenty-five students will graduate with distinction for successfully completing a thesis based on independent research.

Nicholas School of the Environment faculty will award graduates the following departmental awards: the Sara Laboskey Award to recognize personal integrity and academic excellence; the Thomas V. Laska Memorial Award to recognize outstanding achievement in the earth and climate sciences; the Marine Science and Conservation Award to recognize excellence in scholarship, research and citizenship; and the Maggie Schneider Award in Marine Biology to recognize a student who demonstrates love of learning and service in marine conservation biology. The school鈥檚 Stanback Dean Lori Bennear will award one student the Forever Duke Award for being a strong advocate for the Duke community who embodies the university鈥檚 guiding principle of 鈥渒nowledge in the service to society鈥. She will also announce the Karen Kirchof Staff Award for Excellence in Mentoring Students, which goes to an NSOE staff member nominated by students.

The recognition ceremony will be and recorded for friends and family members who cannot attend in person.

Learn more about all of the Nicholas School鈥檚 ceremonies and receptions, visit the school鈥檚 graduation page.