Joseph H. Rogers Science - Mathematics Award

This award was established in 1993 in tribute to retired NMC faculty member and staunch Observatory supporter Joseph H. Rogers of Traverse City. Mr. Rogers was among NMC"s earliest professors, joining the faculty in 1955 as a science instructor. During his 30-year career at NMC, he served as division director of science/math and was active in campus affairs. He shared his love of science with thousands of students and colleagues. After his retirement in 1984, Mr. Rogers remained active in the community and was often outspoken on civic issues. He died in 1997. Among Mr. Rogers" many notable achievements was his leadership in securing the property, equipment and funding necessary to establish the NMC Observatory in 1981. Named in his honor, the Joseph H. Rogers Observatory has benefitted the college and community for more than two decades and is the home of one of only ten NASA-funded astronomy education programs for teachers in the United States.