Vol. 38, No. 18

3-4-2004
By: Amy Murray

Thompson to address winter graduates

Lonnie Thompson, Distinguished University Professor in the Department of Geological Sciences and research scientist with the Byrd Polar Research Center, will speak at winter quarter commencement. About 1,500 students will receive degrees during the ceremony, which takes place at 3 p.m. March 21 at the Schottenstein Center.
Thompson shocked the public and scientific community alike in 2001 when he announced that the analysis of ice cores from high mountain glaciers in Africa and Peru showed that they were melting at an alarming rate — one that will likely lead to the loss of Kilimanjaro’s ice fields within the next 15 years.
This research involves the difficult and demanding work of climbing these high mountains, living there for weeks to recover the ice cores, and developing pioneering methods of extracting and preserving the cores during shipment back to Ohio State.
Thompson plans to tell graduates that there are similarities in the tasks of climbing mountains and beginning a new phase of life. “Sometimes when you start a new project, the task can seem very difficult,” Thompson said. “Our research group worked for years before we gained wide recognition. Whether you are climbing a mountain or starting a career, you have to stay focused, and be optimistic and persistent.”
The winter quarter commencement speaker is traditionally a member of the faculty. Interim Executive Vice President and Provost Barbara Snyder says Thompson will represent the faculty well.
“Professor Thompson is a wonderful choice for commencement speaker,” Snyder said. “He is an outstanding scientist who does exceptional research in extraordinary conditions. He is a leading international spokesperson on the subject of global climate change and one of the most respected voices in the world on related policy issues. I know that he will inspire our graduates.”
Thompson is the recipient of numerous awards, including the 2002 Dr. A.H. Heineken Prize for Environmental Sciences and the 2002 Common Wealth Award of Distinguished Service for Science and Invention. In 2001, he was named one of America’s Best Scientists by Time magazine and the Cable News Network. Ohio State has designated him a Distinguished University Professor, the highest honor bestowed on faculty.

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