Hosted by the College of Sciences and Mathematics and the College of Agriculture, this year’s Comer Awards were presented to three graduating Auburn University students. This prestigious tradition continues to honor the exceptional achievements of students by recognizing their dedication, hard work and contributions to their respective fields. The 2025 Comer Medalists are:
- Timothy “Luke” Eller – Comer Medal for Excellence in Agricultural Sciences
- Carson Kim – Comer Medal for Excellence in Biological Sciences
- Henry Stephens – Comer Medal for Excellence in Physical Sciences
Eller graduates in May with a Bachelor of Science in applied biotechnology. Since 2022, he has worked in the Scott-Ritchey Research Center as the Matthews Undergraduate Research Fellow and was published in “Cells” in 2024 for his work with oncolytic viruses. After graduation, Eller will attend medical school at the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB), where he plans to specialize in pediatric medicine.
Kim is graduating this semester with a degree in biomedical sciences, pre-dentistry concentration, and a minor in Honors business. He has completed extensive research in both Auburn’s Sport Biomechanics Lab and UAB’s Oral Microbiology Lab, and has served in various leadership roles, including president of the Pre-Dental Association and vice president of the COSAM Leaders. After graduation, Kim will pursue his passion for dentistry at the UAB School of Dentistry.
Stephens will graduate in May with Bachelor of Science degrees in physics and biomedical sciences, both on the pre-medicine track, and with a minor in psychology. During his time at Auburn, he engaged in undergraduate research, presented his work at the Auburn University Research Symposium and served in various teaching and leadership roles. After graduation, Stephens will attend the UAB Heersink School of Medicine.
Established in 1923, the Comer Medal was given each year until 1970, when it was decided that two medals would be given annually, one in the physical sciences and one in the biological sciences. Then in 1989, a third medal was added to award the excellence of an agricultural sciences student. Each of the medalists are selected by procedures established by the Deans of the College of Agriculture and the College of Sciences and Mathematics.
The award ceremony alternates its host each year, with the College of Agriculture hosting during even years and the College of Sciences and Mathematics hosting during odd years. This tradition not only highlights the collaborative efforts between the two colleges but also underscores the importance of recognizing and rewarding student excellence across diverse scientific disciplines.
Maggie Han, associate dean for Academic Affairs in the College of Sciences and Mathematics, expressed great pride in the recipients.
“It is always a great pleasure to honor these outstanding students alongside the College of Agriculture,” she said. “Their dedication and achievements reflect excellence in their fields and the high standards we set at Auburn. We are extremely proud of their contributions.”
The Comer Awards continue to uphold a prestigious tradition of recognizing the exceptional achievements of Auburn students. This year, Eller, Kim and Stephens are being celebrated for their outstanding contributions and dedication to their respective fields. Their hard work and commitment to excellence serve as an inspiration to future students, and the colleges extend their heartfelt congratulations to these remarkable individuals as they embark on the next chapter of their academic and professional journeys.
