John L. Safko Sr. Honored by Cambridge Who's Who
John Safko Helps His Students to Understand the Universe
COLUMBIA, SC, October 6, 2011 /24-7PressRelease/ -- Professor John L. Safko Sr., Treasurer of the National Association of Academies of Science and Distinguished Professor Emeritus of Physics and Astronomy at the University of South Carolina, has been recognized by Cambridge Who's Who for demonstrating dedication, leadership and excellence in the field of academia.
Professor Safko is the author of a variety of books, as well as the co-author of graduate textbooks in physics. Before retiring from the faculty of the University of South Carolina with the rank of distinguished professor, he developed and managed an astronomy course for nonmajors. In addition, Professor Safko taught doctoral and master's students theoretical physics and observational astronomy. Professor Safko believes in engaging students in scientific research and recognizing their contributions to the field. He also finds value and meaning in his own involvement with scientific organizations. Prior to becoming the treasurer of the National Association of Academies of Science, he was treasurer of the South Carolina Academy of Science for more than 30 years. He also served for 35 years as the chief financial officer and chief operating officer of the South Carolina Academy of Science.
Attributing his success to his drive to complete a project, ability to go the extra mile, and a love of learning how things work, Professor Safko has risen through the ranks as a member of his organization. His current position includes both academic and treasury work. One of the main goals of the National Association of Academies of Science is to increase communication; thus, looking to the future, Professor Safko intends to continue interacting with students and motivating them toward success.
Professor Safko earned a Ph.D. in physics at The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill in 1965. Prior to that, he earned a Bachelor of Science in physics at Case Institute of Technology (now Case University). He holds memberships to the American Association of Physics Teachers, the American Astronomical Society, the International Astronomical Union and the International Chapter of the Explorers Club. He is an elected fellow of the Explorers Club, the American Physical Society and the American Association for the Advancement of Science, and a former treasurer of the Greater Piedmont Explorers Club. In addition, he served four terms as secretary to the faculty at the University of South Carolina.
Recently, his major efforts have been devoted to the National Association of Academies of Science (NAAS) and its work with the high school members of the American Junior Academy of Science (AJAS). As a non-profit organization, they work with the state and regional Academies of Science. The 30 some academies that are the membership of the NAAS provide the selection process for students selected as members of the AJAS.. Most of the state and regional academies have little income from their dues so membership support for the annual meeting is provided mostly by the corporate donations from industry. Its Executive Director works to obtain the support from research and development groups. Professor Safko would be glad to provide contact information to possible donors.
For additional information on the National Association of Academies of Science, go to http://www.academiesofscience.org. To find out more about physics and astronomy at the University of South Carolina, visit http://astro.physics.sc.edu.
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