Earlier this week Texas Tech University's Graduate School announced the 2014 award winners who achieved high quality work in their theses and dissertations. In the 'Social Sciences' category, the master's thesis second place award went to Nellie Hill, a graduate student with Tech's Department of Agricultural Education and Communications.

The title of Hill's work was, "A Social Network Analysis of Texas Alliance for Water Conservation Producers."

"We're pleased to be able to honor our graduate students and the top-quality research they are conducting," said Mark Sheridan, vice provost for graduate affairs and dean of the Graduate School. "Graduate students and research are a critical component of Texas Tech's drive to be a top-tier research university."

Students are nominated by their faculty members for this cash award. In this case, Hill was nominated by David Doerfert, a professor of Agricultural Communications and Graduate Studies Coordinator. Helen Jones Foundation funding contributed to make these awards possible.

University officials note that in even numbered years, the graduate school recognizes work in social sciences, mathematics, physical sciences and engineering. Odd years will recognize biological life sciences, humanities and fine arts.

Written by Norman Martin

CONTACT: Steven Fraze, Chair, Department of Agricultural Education and Communications, Texas Tech University at (806) 742-2816 or steven.fraze@ttu.edu

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