Kishor M. Kulkarni Distinguished High School Teacher Award

Dr. Kishor M. Kulkarni and his wife, Josie, with five past award recipients. From left to right: Todd Bolenbaugh (2017), Caryn Jackson (2013), Kishor Kulkarni, Analice Sowell (2018), Josie Kulkarni, Andy Nydam (2007), Debbie Goodwin (2010)

• Award was established through a generous donation by Dr. Kulkarni (past ASM Trustee) and his family to honor and recognize the accomplishments of a high school science teacher who has demonstrated a significant and sustained impact on pre-college age students.
• Candidate must be a full or part-time actively employed high school teacher in the U.S.A. or Canada.
• Suggested candidates include past recipients of ASM Foundation K-12 Teacher Grants and graduates of the ASM Materials Camp Teachers Camp program.
• Any ASM member may forward a qualified application/nomination for consideration.
• Award includes cash grant of $2,000 plus the recipient’s travel cost of up to $500 (to receive the award at the ASM Awards Luncheon).
• Deadline for submission of a candidate is June 30.

Nomination Form

2024 Kishor M. Kulkarni Distinguished High School Teacher Award Recipient

Robert Lorenz Dusch
Teacher, Materials Science, AP Chemistry, Chemistry, Honors Chemistry, Princeton High School, Ohio 

 “Lonnie Dusch is a remarkable teacher who has had a profound impact on my path to a career in engineering.  His passion for science is infectious, and his ability to make complex concepts accessible and engaging is unparalleled.  Mr. Dusch’s enthusiasm extends beyond the classroom, where he has inspired countless students to pursue their interests in STEM fields.  His dedication to fostering a love for the wonders of the universe played a crucial role in my decision for college and beyond.  His innovative teaching methods and unwavering support gave me the confidence to explore and excel in science, my career, and everyday life.” Sam Fickle, 2013 Princeton HS graduate  

Lonnie has been an amazing pillar in the success of the ASM Materials Camp and its additional resources.  He was and continues to be a stellar classroom role model in his school and in ASM Materials Camp-Teachers.  He has done what other award recipients have done but so much more.  The greatest outreach is Lonnie being the tireless administrator and contributor to his BLOG – a valuable tool for master teachers, camp attendees, classroom teachers and home school parents as well as the plain curious.  Utilized by thousands, it is the go-to place for questions about where to find a good explanation of whatever the material science topic is at the moment. 

Distinguished Awardees