Dr. Karen Bjorkman, a Distinguished University Professor of Astronomy, is the first faculty member at The University of Toledo to be named a fellow of the American Astronomical Society (AAS).
Bjorkman joins the fourth class of AAS Fellows, who are recognized for original research and publications, innovative contributions to astronomical techniques or instrumentation, significant contributions to education and public outreach, and noteworthy service to astronomy.
Bjorkman
“I feel truly honored by being selected as a Fellow of the AAS, especially since this organization is the primary disciplinary society that is focused entirely on astronomy and astrophysics research, education and outreach,” Bjorkman said. “None of the work I have done in this field would have been possible without the amazing colleagues, students and friends with whom I have had the good fortune to work with.”
The American Astronomical Society, a major international organization of professional astronomers, astronomy educators and amateur astronomers, honored 22 members this year for enhancing and sharing humanity’s scientific understanding of the universe through personal achievement and extraordinary service to the astronomical sciences.
The organization selected Bjorkman, who has been a member of UToledo’s faculty since 1996, for her important contributions to the study of massive stars called Be stars, which are 10 to 20 times the mass of the sun, and applications of astronomical polarimetry. The honor also recognizes her strong leadership in education and in public outreach, especially through Universe in the Park, her dedicated commitment to increasing diversity in astrophysics and her notable service to the astronomical community and her University.
“It is a joy to celebrate the dedication and accomplishments of these extraordinary members of our community,” said AAS President Kelsey Johnson. “We are so fortunate to have colleagues and role models who have invested so deeply in moving astrophysics forward.”
The inaugural class of American Astronomical Society Fellows was named in 2020.
In 2017 Bjorkman was named a Fellow of the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) in recognition of her important contributions to scientific discovery.
