Three University of Delaware faculty were honored for their scholarly contributions at the Faculty Senate meeting on Dec. 1. 

The Excellence in Scholarly Engagement Award is given to a faculty member who has distinguished themselves in teaching, research, creative activities and/or service that engages the community in a reciprocal relationship. The Mid-Career Excellence in Scholarship Award recognizes excellence in research, scholarship and creative endeavors.

Alyssa Lanzi, assistant professor in the Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders, received the Excellence in Scholarly Engagement Award. She received $5,000 to be shared with a community partner and will have her name inscribed on bricks in Mentors’ Circle.

Lanzi, a speech language pathologist, is a founding executive committee member of the Delaware Center for Cognitive Aging Research (DECCAR). Her work on the early detection of Alzheimer’s disease focuses on expanding access to screening and research opportunities within underserved communities.

“Human subjects research requires deep connection and engagement with the community,” said Lanzi. “As academic researchers, it is our responsibility to embed ourselves within these communities to inform, inspire, lead, and share our research efforts, while also mentoring the next generation of researchers to do the same. I am honored to accept this award, recognizing the invaluable partnerships with all the dedicated community organizations and members who champion our work in Alzheimer's disease research.”

Chris Kloxin and Federica Bianco were presented with the Mid-Career Excellence in Scholarship Award. They were awarded $5,000 and will have their names inscribed on bricks in Mentors’ Circle.

Kloxin, associate professor in the Department of Materials Science and Engineering and director of the University’s Peptide-Protein Materials Center, is a leader in next-generation materials, such as polymer and peptide materials, and a co-inventor of bundlemers, engineered peptide building blocks that enable the programmable assembly of materials with a wide range of potential technological uses. 

“I am honored to receive this recognition,” said Kloxin. “UD has been a place where I can pursue new ideas and help strengthen the programs that support our students. I am grateful for the collaborative spirit of my colleagues and for the curiosity and commitment our students bring to their work; they make my time here inspiring and rewarding.”

Bianco, associate professor in the Department of Physics and Astronomy in the College of Arts and Sciences, and in the Joseph R. Biden, Jr. School of Public Policy and Administration, serves as deputy project scientist for the Vera C. Rubin Observatory where she helps lead the Legacy Survey of Space and Time. Across disciplines, Bianco analyzes data to drive decision-making, from detecting the echoes of ancient supernovae to modeling COVID-19 hospital demand.

“A mid-career award is really an award that goes not to me but to my research group,” said Bianco. “I am so proud of my students and postdocs doing amazing things to uncover the mysteries of the universe, bring lessons learned in astronomy and AI to earthbound fields, and build communities of practices where everyone can thrive and participate in discovery.”