In recognition of Sem and Mario’s outstanding contributions to the Department of Geological Sciences and the College of Sciences
MARIO CAPUTO: is a department alumnus and now Adjunct Professor, Mario has done a superb job teaching our required undergraduate major course in sedimentology over the past few years. He has worked especially hard developing labs and field trips where the students get to study modern sedimentary environments following the example of Pat Abbott, his former teacher and mentor here at SDSU. Mario’s experience in the petroleum industry and in leadership roles for the Society of Sedimentary Geology also benefits our students. His excellence in the classroom reflects his broad research experience in the Colorado Plateau, Gulf of Mexico and Bahamas.
SEM TRAN: demonstrates a positive attitude, friendly demeanor, and unmistakable competence and professionalism to students, visitors, and the general public. She serves as Administrative Coordinator for the SDSU/UCSD Joint Doctoral Program in Geophysics and the MSc program. She supports diverse Department functions including the alumni banquet, picnics and Associated Geology student events with planning, preparation and participate ion. This year Sem provided invaluable contributions to the design and preparation of the new R. Gordon Gastil Seminar room.