MC alum named as SRSU Outstanding Biology Undergraduate

Glynis Barnes, a Midland College (MC) alumna and Sul Ross State University (SRSU) baccalaureate candidate, has been named as one of two SRSU outstanding undergraduates in biology.

Barnes will receive a Bachelor of Science degree in biology from SRSU; however, all of her classes have been held on the MC campus. Since 2002, almost 100 Midland-based students have graduated from SRSU under the MC-SRSU Science Initiative. The Science Initiative offers four-year degrees in biology, geology and mathematics. Students take all of their classes on the MC campus via distance learning.

"We hope that by providing the opportunity for students to stay at MC and finish a four-year degree, they are able to complete more hours with us," stated MC Vice President of Instruction Dr. Rex Peebles. "This makes degree completion a reality for our students who cannot leave Midland due to family and job responsibilities."

In addition to excelling in biology and science-related courses, Barnes is also one of MC’s superior piano students. Even after graduating with an Associate of Science degree, Barnes continued to take piano classes at MC while continuing her studies from SRSU. In September 2010, she was featured in a piano duet with MC Assistant Professor of Music Dr. Nicholas Elderkin during the MC All-Steinway School inauguration.

This summer, Barnes plans to attend the Region 18 Education Service Center Alternative Teacher Certification Program so that she can teach science at the secondary level.