The Ann S. Tuttle Citizenship, Engagement, and Outreach Prize recognizes the tremendous efforts of grad students to engage the public and community. This prize is given to a current graduate student for exceptional effort and impact in outreach, public engagement, or service to our field, University, or Department. The award was endowed by the estate of Ann Tuttle. Ms. Tuttle set up the fund to show her appreciation for the kindness shown her by Ann and Gerald Newsom (Gerald is a long-time professor and former chair of the department). 

 

This year, we award the Ann S. Tuttle Citizenship, Engagement, and Outreach Award to Miqaela Weller and Liam Dubay.

 

Miqaela received multiple nominations for this award, including one from 17 grads! She has given over 200 planetarium shows in her time at OSU and has developmed multiple shows herself. She is a dynamic speaker, very engaging and approachable. She trains students in the planetarium and is credited for Astronomy 2020, Jennifer's course in the planetarium, being successful. She also is intregral in star parties and outreach events.

 

Liam was the instructor on record for the Polaris Mentorship Course in 2025-2026, where he developed course material, gave lectures, and supported many students. He has been a Polaris mentor for 4 students and a member of the Polaris leadership team since 2023. He was head instructor for the python bootcamp for SURP students in 2024-2025, and he's also given over 100 planetarium shows. Both Miqaela and Liam have run Galaxy Hour for the last several years. Congratulations, Liam and Miqaela!