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Introduction
Jerome J. Paulin was a strong advocate for helping students recognize the value of microscopy. In that spirit, the fund bearing his name supports opportunities for SEMS scientists to travel across the southeastern United States and share their expertise with institutions and students who might not otherwise have the means to host such speakers.
Each year, two to three distinguished SEMS members are invited by the Directors of the fund to volunteer their time in support of this mission. While sponsoring institutions may offer an honorarium, it is understood that no such compensation will come from the Memorial Fund, and that participation represents a contribution both to SEMS and to the legacy of Jerry Paulin.
Through this program, volunteers not only help expand awareness of microscopy but also strengthen the visibility and impact of SEMS as a society.
Funding
The fund was established with a one-time seed grant of $1,000 from the SEMS general treasury, supplemented by private donations. All investments are managed by the SEMS Investment Director, with the fund maintained separately and clearly designated apart from other SEMS accounts. Each year, the interest generated by the fund supports expenses related to the visiting lectureships. Eligible costs include travel, housing, and meals, subject to approval by the Fund Directors.
If you wish to donate to the Jerry Paulin Lectureship Award, please click here!
Administration
The Jerry Paulin Lectureship Award was established to support an outstanding lecturer in any field of microscopy, providing funding for a one-hour presentation at the SEMS Annual Meeting. The lectureship is awarded only when a qualified candidate has been nominated by the general membership and sufficient funding is available.
Oversight of the award is entrusted to a committee composed of the three most recent Past Presidents, chaired by the immediate Past President. The fund itself is administered by at least three SEMS members, including at least one member of the SEMS Executive Council. A Director of the fund, appointed annually by the SEMS President, is responsible for its day-to-day administration.
Sponsoring institutions may apply to the Director for funding to host one of the designated lecturers for that year. Applications must include a detailed cost estimate. Upon approval, the Director will contact the year’s volunteer lecturers to coordinate a visit with the sponsoring institution. If scheduling proves impossible, the Director will promptly notify the institution.
Announcements of the Jerry Paulin Lectureship Award will be made through SEMS publications and other communication channels. Additionally, mailings may be sent to appropriate academic officials across the Southeast, with all associated costs covered by the Lectureship Fund rather than the general SEMS treasury.