Our awards.

Scroll down for more information on previous award recipients and application information/instructions for 2025

Scholarship for Outstanding Geoscience Students

Overview: The GFT Outstanding Geoscience Student Scholarship is a prestigious award designed to recognize and support exceptional junior and senior geoscience majors from accredited universities across Oklahoma and its neighboring states. This annual scholarship, provided by GFT, underscores the organization's commitment to fostering academic awareness, excellence, and dedication within the geosciences field.

Scholarship Details:

  • Award Amount: $1,500 per scholarship

  • Number of Awards: Ranges between four to six scholarships annually, depending on available funds

  • Eligibility Requirements: Open to geoscience majors who are in their junior or senior year at the time of nomination, enrolled in accredited universities in Oklahoma and surrounding states

  • Selection Criteria: Candidates are evaluated based on their superior academic performance, demonstrated commitment to the geosciences, references, and contributions to the field through research, projects, or service

Application Process: Applications are accepted from all eligible students within the specified region. The selection process involves a comprehensive review of academic records, research or project proposals, and letters of recommendation. Successful candidates will be selected based on their academic achievements and overall dedication to the geosciences.

Award Presentation: The scholarship winners are honored at the Annual GFT Awards Banquet, a prestigious event celebrating academic excellence in the geosciences. During the banquet, each recipient presents their study areas either through a detailed speaking presentation or an informative poster session. This event not only highlights the recipients' research and accomplishments but also provides an opportunity for them to network with esteemed professionals and scholars in their field.

Purpose and Impact: The GFT Outstanding Geoscience Student Award aims to support and encourage talented students who have shown exceptional promise in their academic pursuits and contributions to the geosciences. By providing financial assistance and public recognition, the scholarship helps alleviate the financial burden of higher education and fosters a deeper commitment to advancing knowledge and innovation in the geosciences.

Through this award, GFT reaffirms its dedication to nurturing the next generation of geoscientists, promoting academic excellence, and celebrating the achievements of outstanding students in the field.

Thanks to generous sponsors and successful fundraising, GFT awarded six scholarships in 2024!

Award for Excellence in the Teaching of Natural Resources in the Earth Sciences

Overview: The Geoscience Foundation of Tulsa (GFT) is dedicated to recognizing and celebrating exceptional Earth Science educators within the Tulsa metropolitan area. The Foundation understands the critical role these passionate individuals play in inspiring and educating the next generation of scientists and geologists. To honor their significant contributions, GFT offers awards that not only provide financial support but also acknowledge their exceptional efforts in the field of Earth Science education.

Award Details:

  • First Place Award: $2,250

  • Runner-Up Award: $750

Recognition and Opportunities:

  • Awards Banquet: The first-place winner is honored with the prestigious opportunity to be the guest speaker at the Annual GFT Awards Banquet. This esteemed event gathers distinguished educators, community leaders, and members of the Foundation, providing a platform for the award recipient to share their experiences and insights with a broader audience.

  • AAPG Nomination: In addition to the financial prize and speaking opportunity, the first-place winner becomes eligible for nomination for the American Association of Petroleum Geologists (AAPG) National Teacher of the Year Award. This nomination is a testament to their dedication, expertise, and profound impact on their students and the field of Earth Science education.

Purpose and Impact: The GFT Earth Science Teacher Award aims to provide significant recognition and support to outstanding Earth Science educators. By awarding these educators, GFT acknowledges their hard work, commitment, and the vital role they play in shaping the future of Earth Science. The financial prizes help support their school programs and enhance educational resources, while the speaking opportunity and AAPG nomination offer wider recognition and career advancement prospects.

Commitment to Excellence: GFT's commitment extends beyond merely providing financial support. The Foundation is dedicated to fostering excellence in Earth Science education by celebrating and elevating the achievements of remarkable teachers. By recognizing their contributions and facilitating opportunities for broader recognition, GFT ensures that these educators' influence and impact extend well beyond the Tulsa metropolitan area. Their work not only benefits their professional growth but also inspires and cultivates a new generation of aspiring scientists and geologists.

In summary, the Geoscience Foundation of Tulsa's Earth Science Teacher Award reflects the Foundation’s deep appreciation for exceptional educators and their commitment to advancing Earth Science education. Through this award, GFT honors their dedication, supports their educational endeavors, and provides avenues for further recognition at a national level.

2024 Award for Excellence in the Teaching of Natural Resources in the Earth Sciences

  • Rachel Langley (Riverfield School, Tulsa, OK)

2024 Outstanding Geoscience Student of the Year Award Recipients

  • Charlotte Boehme (University of Arkansas)

  • Hudson Moseby (Oklahoma State University)

  • Ben Matsumura (University of Oklahoma)

  • Joshua Ademilola (Oklahoma State University)

  • Isaac Prud'homme (University of Arkansas)

  • Megan Garrett (Oklahoma State University)

2023 Award for Excellence in the Teaching of Earth Sciences

  • Teacher of the Year: Shannon Chatwin

    Owasso High School

    2023 AAPG National Teacher of the Year Award

  • 2nd Place: Jennifer Istre

    Cascia Hall

2023 Outstanding Geoscience Student of the Year Award Recipients

  • Karelia La Marca

    OU

  • Silas Adeoluwa

    OSU

  • Izabelle Buentello

    OSU

  • Lauren Haygood

    OSU