Delta State University hosted the 20th Anniversary Elliott Nowell White Science Symposium last week. The symposium was created by Drs. Robert and Mary Elliott, both Delta State graduates, to introduce Delta State students to doctors and scientists of international stature who can serve as role models. The Elliotts founded the Elliott-Elliott-Head Breast Cancer Research and Treatment Center in Baton Rouge, La., one of the leading privately-owned breast cancer research centers in the world.
The three-day event featured world-renowned speakers in the fields of medicine, research, and education and concluded with the Elliott Program of Excellence Recognition Luncheon keynoted by Cleveland Mayor Billy Nowell. The recognition luncheon allows Dr. Robert Elliott and Dr. Mary C. Elliott, founders of the symposium, an opportunity to recognize and present awards for achievement to individuals and groups.
2012 speakers and award winners were, from left, Cleveland Mayor and luncheon keynote Billy Nowell, Delta State Associate Professor of Biology and initial recipient of the W. Wayne Walley Award for Academic Excellence, Dr. Ellen Green; President and Executive Director of the North Sunflower Medical Center Billy Marlow, Inspiration Award; Delta State Chair of the Division of Biological and Physical Sciences Dr. Barry Campbell, Inspiration Award; Co-founder of the Elliott Nowell White Science Symposium Dr. Mary Elliott, Hero Award; Co-founder of the Elliott Nowell White Science Symposium Dr. Robert Elliott; retired surgeon Dr. Henry Laws, Hero Award; Delta State Professor of Organic Chemistry Dr. Rie Somlai, Inspiration Award; Delta State Executive Assistant for Biological Sciences Barbara Knight, Hero Award; Certified Public Accountant Neil Holcomb, Inspiration Award; and Delta State University President Dr. John M. Hilpert, Inspiration Award.
