A Western Illinois University physics and mathematics major was one nominee from
a field of 1,164 mathematics, science and engineering students from across
the United States and Puerto Rico selected for the prestigious Goldwater
Scholarship. Michael Baxa, a junior from Aledo, is the first WIU student to
receive the federally endowed, highly distinguished scholarship named in honor
of former Senator Barry M. Goldwater. He was one of 14 Illinois students singled
out for this distinction. Baxa will receive a $7,500 award for tuition, fees,
books and room and board.

Working with WIU physics professor Dr. Mark S. Boley, Baxa, a WIU honors
student, had to submit a report on the research and honors projects that he has
conducted in Dr. Boley's physics research laboratory to date for critique by the
judging panel. This report also had to include a discussion of how this
research fit into his future plans to pursue his Ph.D. in condensed matter
physics. "There are eight or nine nationally prestigious scholarships, and this
is one of them," explained Illinois Centennial Honors College Director Thomas
Helm. "Michael's selection is truly wonderful. It is a testament to the academic
opportunities that faculty members make available to our students." According
to the Barry M. Goldwater Scholarship and Excellence in Education Program, the
purpose of this award is to provide a continuing source of highly-qualified
individuals in science, math and engineering study and research. Nominees must
pursue advanced degrees following their undergraduate education.

While completing his Bachelor's Degree at WIU, under the direction of Physics
Honors Advisor Dr. Mark S. Boley, arrangements were made with Argonne National
Laboratory near Chicago for Baxa to continue related collaborative work during
the summers of 2000 and 2001. Boley and Baxa have also received a WIU Honors
Research Grant and have worked on various research projects, presenting their
research at both regional and national conferences.