Nancy Magnussen, director of Educational Outreach and Women’s Programs in the Texas A&M University college of science, was honored with the Science Olympiad Heart of Gold Award.

“I was surprised, shocked, thrilled,” Magnussen said.  “I had no idea that I had been selected to receive this award. There are so many people at the national level that have contributed so much.  It was humbling to know that I was selected from such a deserving group. Following the announcement of the award, I have received dozens of e-mails and calls from not only campus, but also across the country from other state Olympiad directors.”

The award recognizes what the foundation considers the key stakeholders in the program.

“It is wonderful that the outreach efforts of the college of science have been recognized,” Magnussen said.  “We could not begin to run this program without the faculty, staff and students that help run the 56 events that are offered.  It is a huge undertaking, and I appreciate the enthusiasm from all the people that make it possible.”