People, papers and presentations

Adria Baker, Rice’s associate vice provost and executive director for International Education, was honored at the 2014 Association of International Educators (NAFSA) Regional Conference in November in Fort Worth. The organization named an Advocacy Scholarship after Baker for her strong advocacy work “since 9/11 when the equilibrium between secure borders and open doors was out of balance.” NAFSA is the professional organization for those who work with international students and students studying abroad. The Baker Advocacy Scholarship allows newcomers and senior-level executives to travel to Washington to speak with Congress about matters of international education.

Sayuri Guthrie Shimizu, professor of history and the Dunlevie Family Chair in History, discussed her recent book, “Trans-Pacific Field of Dreams: How Baseball Linked the United States and Japan in Peace and War,” Dec. 1 at the Japan Foundation, Toronto. Guthrie Shimizu specializes in the United States’ relations with East Asia, particularly Japan, since the late 19th century.

George Hirasaki, the A.J. Hartsook Professor Emeritus and research professor in the Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, received the 2014 Local Section Award from the American Chemical Society’s Greater Houston Section at a Dec. 3 dinner and ceremony. The award is the highest given by the chemical society’s Houston section and was presented in recognition of Hirasaki’s “meritorious contributions to the welfare and distinction of the section, as demonstrated by contributions to education, research, sectional service or community service.”

Dr. Peter Hotez, fellow in disease and poverty at Rice’s Baker Institute for Public Policy, has been named one of four U.S. Science Envoys by the U.S. State Department. Hotez is also professor and dean of the National School of Tropical Medicine at Baylor College of Medicine. The position, which begins in January, goes to American scientists who will promote the country’s commitment to science and technology as tools of diplomacy and economic growth, according to the State Department’s announcement.

Senior Emi LaFountain was one of nearly 4,000 students from across the United States who participated in Project Green Challenge, a “global call to action for college and high school students to transition from conventional to conscious living.” LaFountain was one of 12 finalists for the competition. She participated in a three-day Eco-summit in San Francisco in late November. The event included opportunities to meet with global environmental leaders, attend a series of TED-style talks and learn about organic cooking from a five-star chef.