Eight San Jacinto College students’ research recognized by academic associations

HOUSTON – Presenting a paper of one’s own research would be a milestone in any college student’s life. Having eight of these papers recognized by academic associations in both English and history is an accomplishment shared by San Jacinto College South professors Dr. Eddie Weller and Dr. Greg Smith.

The Texas State Historical Association and Texas Folklore Society recently held conferences that gave San Jacinto College students a chance to achieve a goal that many graduate students strive for.

“This year, our students really put San Jacinto College on the map when it comes to academic work,” said Smith, who teaches English in an Honors Program interdisciplinary class alongside Weller, who teaches history.

Students selected to present their research at the Texas Folklore Society conference in April were Megan Burns of Pearland with her paper “Blind Lemon Jefferson,” Seth Quinones of Friendswood with “The Life of Leadbelly,” Carol Nnabuife of Houston with “Naijas in Texas,” Sara Nagy of Friendswood with “Scottish Dancing in Texas,” and Jacklyn Cortiaus of Friendswood with “The Blues Mothers.” Cortiaus’ paper was also selected for publication in the 2009 edition of “Touchstone,” the journal of the Walter Prescott Webb Historical Society, a college-level educational program of the Texas State Historical Association.

Burns earned the prestigious first place 2009 C.M. and Cora Caldwell Award, given by the Texas State Historical Association.

“This was a really enjoyable experience, and it was a really big honor to present my paper,” Burns said, who is a dual credit college student also in home school. “When I got there, I realized the impact of going to conference. As a student, you need to be able to think critically, take information and make it your own.”

Amelia Giles of El Lago received the third place Caldwell Award for her paper “Houston Ride for Kids.” Her sister, Rachelle Giles, also had her paper “History of the Aquanauts of Clear Lake” published in “Touchstone,” along with “The Space Shuttle Columbia Accident” by Nathan Quinones, brother of Seth Quinones.

All five students recognized at the Texas State Historical Association this semester are dual credit homeschooled students taking San Jacinto College courses.

“Without question, these students worked hard to prepare outstanding research papers, going beyond the work of most college students,” Weller said. “They delved deeply into the primary sources to tell the stories of local Texans.”

San Jacinto College serves more than 24,500 students in over 140 degrees and certificates in university transfer and technical programs. The College also serves the community through workforce training. Students come with various goals and aspirations and we are committed to their success. San Jacinto College. Your Goals. Your College.

For more information about San Jacinto College, please call 281-998-6150 or visit www.sanjac.edu.