First Mccroskey Fellowship Recipient Selected

BUFFALO, N.Y. -- Marina Boruk of Forest Hills, a senior in the University at Buffalo Department of Biological Sciences, has been selected as the first recipient of the McCroskey Endowment Fellowship.

The annual fellowship provides support for deserving students in the final year of undergraduate study in biological sciences. Recipients are selected based on academic achievement, laboratory research, independent-study experience and financial need.

"I'm very honored that I was chosen for the award," said Boruk. "The support will ease some of my financial responsibilities so I can concentrate more on my studies."

Boruk, a member of the Biological Sciences Undergraduate Honors Program, is gaining hands-on experience in molecular biology and genetics as a research assistant for James Berry, associate professor of biological sciences, as well as completing a work-study assignment in the biology department.

Don Larson, professor of biological sciences and chair of the selection committee for the McCroskey Fellowship, said Boruk's outstanding academic record and research experience made the committee's decision easy. "The award will not only help Marina financially, but recognizes the academic challenges she has undertaken and gives proper recognition to a student who is excelling in biological sciences," he said.

In addition to her work with the biology department, Boruk is a resident advisor on the UB South (Main Street) Campus, and an active member of the Golden Key Honor Society, Phi Beta Kappa and Phi Eta Sigma, a freshman honor society. She also has volunteered as an aide at LaGuardia Hospital in Queens. After completing her undergraduate studies, Boruk plans to study pediatric medicine.

The McCroskey Endowment Fund was established in honor of Sidney M. McCroskey and his wife, Marjorie, both strong supporters of UB. Sidney McCroskey attended UB in 1936.

The McCroskeys reside in Sherwood, Wis.