Robert Hatcher wins 2006 GSA Penrose Medal and AGI Campbell Medal
University of Tennessee Distinguished Scientist and Professor in Earth and Planetary Sciences Robert Hatcher, Jr., received both the 2006 Geological Society of America Penrose Medal and the American Geological Institute Medal in Memory of Ian Campbell, an unprecedented “sweep” of the two lifetime achievement awards. The AGI Medal in Memory of Ian Campbell is awarded in recognition of “singular performance in and contributions to the profession of geology.” Campbell was a geologist, educator, administrator, and public servant and was known for candor and integrity. The Campbell Medal is the most distinguished American Geological Institute award. The Penrose Medal was established in 1927 by R.A.F. Penrose, Jr., to be awarded in recognition of eminent research in pure geology, for outstanding original contributions or achievements that mark a major advance in the science of geology.
In his citation, Michael Higgins (Geologic Mapping Institute, Clayton, GA) recognized Bob as, “one of those rare geologists who integrates field geology, petrology, geophysics, geochemistry, geochronology, and structural geology to decipher the geology of complex mountain systems, such as the Appalachians”. He was the first to apply plate tectonic concepts to the southern Appalachians. In his acceptance, Bob mentioned the impact of his mentors, including his Ph.D. advisor, George Swingle, who taught him the importance of making careful field observations and synthesizing geology based on sound data. To read the complete citations and responses for these awards, see:
http://www.geosociety.org/awards/06speeches/penrose.htm
http://www.geosociety.org/awards/06speeches/IanCampbell.htm
The awards were made at the GSA Presidential Address and Awards Ceremonies on October 21, and the crowd assembled for the event heard the distinctive “clink” of the two medals hitting each other, as the Penrose Medal dropped on top of the Campbell Award that was already hanging around Bob’s neck. It was a special moment of recognition for Bob’s many illustrious accomplishments, the many contributions of his former and present students to this body of research, and a great moment of high visibility for the quality of our program.