Frank Coale Appointed Gemstone Program Director

news story image

Professor Frank J. Coale has accepted the position of Gemstone Program in the Honors College, to begin this month.  Coale will replace Professor Jim Wallace, who will return to the Department of Mechanical Engineering after serving as Gemstone Program director for 11 years.

Coale is a professor and former Chair of the Department of Environmental Science and Technology.  During his five years as chair, he oversaw new departmental construction projects; development and approval of new undergraduate and graduate academic programs; curriculum development; recruitment of faculty; as well as teaching, research, and Extension programs. 

The Gemstone Program is a unique multidisciplinary four-year research program for academically talented undergraduate students from a variety of majors.  Teams of students design, direct, and conduct research under the guidance of faculty mentors and Gemstone staff.  Gemstone students are members of a living and learning community comprised of fellow students, faculty, and staff who work together to enrich their academic experience.  In the fourth year of the program, each team of students presents its research in the form of a thesis to experts. 

Professor Frank J. Coale will work closely with outgoing Director Jim Wallace this summer as Coale transitions into his new role.  For more information about Professor Coale, visit his faculty profile page.

Published July 16, 2012