Northern Illinois University student Hannah Havel has been awarded a Barry M. Goldwater scholarship for her potential to contribute to the advancement of research in the natural sciences, mathematics or engineering.
Established by Congress in 1986, the Barry M. Goldwater Scholarship and Excellence in Education Program encourages the continued development of highly qualified scientists, mathematicians and engineers by awarding scholarships to sophomores and juniors from the U.S. who intend to pursue doctorates. The scholarship provides up to $7,500 annually to help with undergraduate tuition, fees, books or room and board.
Havel is a junior computational software major at NIU with minors in mathematical sciences and Spanish. She plans on pursuing a doctorate in computational physics to research scientific computing and machine learning methods for nuclear reactor and materials physics.
“The Goldwater scholarship provides me with the resources, networks and recognition that will help me reach my goal of engaging in research that facilitates the transition to nuclear energy as a sustainable option to combat climate change,” Havel said.
Havel has worked with her primary faculty mentor, Christopher McCord, associate dean for Academic Administration and professor of mathematics in NIU’s College of Liberal Arts and Sciences since being paired with him as a Research Rookie. Havel has completed three research projects under McCord’s supervision, which has led to her own publication.
Havel also has worked on projects with the Argonne National Laboratory and is developing her impressive resume on campus as a McKearn Fellow, Lead Undergraduate Research Ambassador, Student STEM Ambassador for Argonne Laboratory, and a teaching assistant for the Department of Computer Science.
“This first Goldwater scholarship awarded to an NIU student is a testament to the high quality of undergraduate research mentorship available here.” Andrea Radasanu, assistant vice provost for Student Enhancement said. “At NIU, renowned faculty researchers work closely with undergraduate students, training the next generation of scientists and researchers.”
The Goldwater Foundation will award 441 new scholarships for the 2025-26 academic year, after reviewing a pool of 1,350 outstanding undergraduates nominated by 445 institutions. With the 2025 awards, the Goldwater Foundation has awarded more than 11,000 scholarships since 1989, the first year the scholarship was bestowed.
“NIU provides students with quality opportunities that make them competitive for national fellowships, such as the Goldwater scholarship. It is a privilege to help students see that they are doing work on par with premier research institutions around the country,” Connie Storey, national fellowship campus advisor said.
Contact Storey at 815-753-9505 or CStorey2@NIU.edu for more information.
