Kimberly Zralka of Frankfort, Illinois, receives research grant for summer 2017

2017 Apr 25

Kimberly Zralka of Frankfort, Illinois, will pursue an intensive research project at Olivet Nazarene University during the summer of 2017. This project is funded by a grant awarded to her 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.

Zralka is a junior, majoring in zoology. Her research project is "The effects of imperiled bur and black oak savanna habitat on red-headed woodpecker (Melanerpes erythrocephalus L.) population density and nest success" in the Department of Biological Sciences with Dr. Derek Rosenberger, zoology professor, as Zralka's mentor.

"We are excited for Kimberly and the other students as they engage in cutting edge research in a broad variety of fields," says Dr. Max Reams, director of the Pence-Boyce Summer Research Program at Olivet. "We thank the faculty members who will be working with them."

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.