Ann Arbor Times

EMU Honors College student Jaime Williams has been awarded the 2025 Goldwater Scholarship, one of 441 recipients out of over 5,000 applicants nationwide. This achievement marks the third time in four years that an EMU student has received this recognition.

The Goldwater Scholarship, established in 1986, supports students pursuing research careers in natural sciences, mathematics, and engineering. It provides financial assistance of $7,500. "This isn't my first time applying; it's my second. It's affirming to know that hard work pays off if you keep trying," said Williams. "I’m excited because this scholarship will allow me to focus solely on my classes and research, instead of financial stress."

Williams is originally from Pennsylvania and became a part of EMU three years ago. Chemistry professor Dr. Ruth Ann Armitage mentored Williams for the past two years. Williams, a chemistry major and art history minor, aligns with Dr. Armitage’s research in archaeological chemistry. Together, they work on analyzing archaeological materials, such as ancient Peruvian fibers.

Dr. Armitage praised Williams to the Goldwater Scholarship committee, highlighting their creative leadership. "Jaime is the student who has been the most motivated and excited by the opportunity to bring together the arts and humanities with the highly technical analytical measurement scientists use. They bring unique perspectives to the field, which needs young, diverse voices to grow stronger into the future," she said.

EMU's Goldwater campus representative, Dr. Aaron Liepman, also provided guidance to Williams. "It’s been fun to learn about and witness firsthand Jaime's scientific development over the two years we've worked together to prepare Goldwater applications," Liepman commented.

Williams aims to pursue a Ph.D. in analytical chemistry and work in heritage artifact preservation at an institution like the Smithsonian. They expressed gratitude to their family, friends, and cat BooBerry.

More information about the Goldwater Scholarship is available at https://goldwaterscholarship.gov/. Details about EMU's chemistry programs and Honors College can be found on their respective websites.

About Eastern Michigan University: Established in 1849, it is the second oldest public university in Michigan, offering various degrees through multiple colleges. The university is recognized for its excellence and diversity. More information is available on EMU's website and EMU Today.