UW student recognized during governor's annual speech

LARAMIE — A University of Wyoming student and member of the Wyoming Research Scholars Program (WRSP) was recognized by Gov. Matt Mead during his State of the State address Jan. 11.

The governor acknowledged Logan Jensen, a junior from Greybull majoring in astronomy and astrophysics, for taking advantage of research opportunities as an undergraduate at UW.

Jensen has worked with faculty at the Wyoming Infrared Observatory, learning how to operate a major scientific facility and acquiring the skills to analyze digital images. He was one of seven UW students who visited and used the telescope facilities at Apache Point Observatory in Sunspot, N.M., last fall. UW is a member of the Astrophysical Research Consortium, which owns and manages Apache Point.

As a Wyoming Research Scholar, Jensen conducts research with his faculty mentor, UW physics and astronomy Professor Chip Kobulnicky. The WRSP, a UW Science Initiative-supported program, pairs undergraduate students with faculty mentors who can model the scholarship, teaching, service and outreach activities of a professional scientist. The program provides hands-on, cutting-edge research opportunities.

Jensen’s WRSP project focuses on the total solar eclipse scheduled to occur Aug. 21. He will assist with research and outreach efforts surrounding the historic phenomenon.

“We want to encourage more students like Logan to take advantage of the UW Science Initiative,” Mead said during his address before a joint session of the Wyoming Senate and House.

The governor’s budget recommendations for the 2017 general legislative session include a $500,000 allocation for the UW Science Initiative.