David Burnett of Newark, Illinois, receives research grant for summer 2018

2018 Apr 25

David Burnett of Newark, Illinois, will pursue an intensive research project at Olivet Nazarene University during the summer of 2018. His project is funded through a grant awarded to him and a faculty mentor by the University's Pence-Boyce Committee. This alumni group fosters mentoring of individual students by Olivet faculty in mathematics, science or engineering research.

Burnett is a junior, majoring in engineering with concentrations in computer engineering and software engineering. His research project is "Modeling of Mineral Spectra using Principle Component Analysis" in the Walker School of Engineering with Professor Joe Makarewicz as faculty mentor.

"We received many quality proposals this year, and I am excited that David and Professor Joe Makarewicz will be doing their independent research project," said Dr. Bruce Heyen, chair of the Pence-Boyce Research Committee. "In addition, we are blessed to have generous donors who underwrite the expenses for this program. This year, we were able fund two additional projects with supplemental funds provided by the Catalyst ONU initiative."

Pence-Boyce grants are sponsored by Olivet alumni who wish to honor two outstanding former faculty members who exemplify integrity, dedication and spirit in pursuit of academic excellence.

Elbert Pence was professor of Physics at Olivet from 1962 to 1969. His extensive experience with the U.S. Navy provided valuable background for his students. His energy and enthusiasm were driving forces in developing the physics major at Olivet. He exemplified excellence in higher education in physics and engineering. Professor Pence passed away in 2016.

Fanny Boyce was professor of Mathematics at Olivet from 1963 to 1970. She came to Olivet after many years of service at Wheaton College. Her high standards and teaching performance served as inspiration to those she taught. Dr. Boyce passed away in 1986.