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Astri Kvassnes

2004 Recipient
Marine Geology and Geophysics
Thesis Title:  The Evolution of Oceanic Gabbros: In-situ and Ancient Examples
Advisor:  Dr. Henry Dick, WHOI; Prof. Tim Grove, MIT

Some excerpts from nominations:

  • "I think (Astri) deserves (the award) for serving not just as a student rep, but also on the women's committee and for organizing an annual clothing drive to benefit a local women's shelter.  I am particularly impressed by a student showing interest in the wider town community in which we all live for a few years, but often do little to impact in a positive way."
  • "When I came to the Joint Program, Astri was one of the first students to reach out and make an effort to meet me.  As much as it's nice to think I'm special, I watched her do the same thing with many more students to come.  She formalized this friendliness and caring by becoming part of the student councils both at MIT and WHOI.  She put considerable effort into the Women's Committee and Education Council.  She extended her involvement to holding an annual clothes swap in her home to benefit the local women's shelter.....She is truly one of the most genuine people I have met here, always approaching others with an open and generous mind.  I have a tremendous respect for her ability to apply her own individuality as inspriation for others to be their best selves."
  • "She has been very active in gender equity at WHOI.  She has organized a number of interesting and useful meetings on the topic of women's issues...and an assertiveness training workshop, as well as promoting (or organizing?) a car maintenance workshop. "
  • "She is always outspoken for the silent minority which for others can be easy to overlook when other problems/items/deadlines are pressing."
Astri Kvassnes