7 receive Governor's Medal for Science and Technology from Herbert

SALT LAKE CITY — Seven recipients were honored with the Utah Governor's Medal for Science and Technology last week.

The state has chosen these medals as a symbol of recognition to individuals who have provided distinguished service to Utah in the fields of science and technology.

Gov. Gary Herbert, along with the state science adviser and the State Advisory Council on Science and Technology, presented the medals at the Children's Museum in The Gateway.

The seven winners are:

 Dr. Randall J. Olsen, whohas served as chairman of the Moran Eye Center for the past 20 years. During that time, the Moran Eye Center has become recognized internationally for both its clinical care excellence and research efforts.

 Dr. W. Farrell Edwards,. who helped establish the Space Dynamics Laboratory at Utah State University.

 Glen Westbroek, a teacher at Orem Junior High in the Alpine district, who will be recognized for his contributions to professional teacher development in Utah's science core, as well as his creation of "Sci-ber Text," Utah's online textbook for grades 3-9.

 The National Library of Virtual Manipulatives, for the work of E. Robert Heal, Lawrence O. Cannon, James Dorward and Joel W. Duffin. They created computer applications for use in K-12 mathematics education.

 Ashok C. Kandhkar, who pioneered the development and application of silicon nitride ceramics for spine and orthopedics patients. He also founded Amedica Corp., which is the only company to have FDA clearance for this novel technology.

 Reaveley Engineers & Associates, which will be honored for its structural design solutions of some of the most notable engineering projects in Utah's recent history, including the seismic upgrade for the Tabernacle at Temple Square, the Utah State Capitol and the new Intermountain Medical Center.

 William R. Lund, a senior scientist at the Utah Geological Survey, who will be recognized for his contributions to Utahns' safety and security. He has been instrumental in identifying and advancing the understanding of geologic hazards in the state.