STEM Shoutout: Dr. Laura Crossey

UNM Earth and Planetary Science professor named AAAS fellow  

The American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) named University of New Mexico Earth and Planetary Science Professor Dr. Laura Crossey as one of their 2019 fellows. 

“It is truly a highlight,” Crossey said. “I have had other recognitions from my discipline, such as being elected as a Fellow of the Geological Society of America and a Career Achievement Award from the American Institute of Professional Geologists, but this honor reflects a much broader pool of scientists, so it is a special honor. “

Crossey is one of 443 AAAS members elected as 2019 fellows and 21 recognized for their work in geology and geography. She will travel to Seattle, Washington in February for the AAAS annual meeting to be recognized. 

“I just want to reiterate how wonderful it is to have this success and recognition at UNM where we have such an amazing opportunity to increase participation of under-represented groups at all levels- from undergrads and K-12 outreach to faculty,” Crossey said. “If I can be recognized, so can you.” 

Crossey came to UNM immediately following earning her PhD from the University of Wyoming in 1985. She said that her success reflects UNM’s investment in her and her programs, since she spent her entire 34-year long academic career at the University. 

“I also feel very proud of my many students, both graduate and undergraduate, because my success is in part due to their individual successes,” Crossey said. 

Crossey’s work in earth and planetary sciences highlights groundwater and surface water quality which she said is of special interest because society faces many challenges in that area.