Nationally Recognized Open Door Model

Abstract

The White House brochure during a US Presidential Award ceremony stated of Oppenheimer: “He has developed an open door model that encourages students of all economic strata and ethnic groups to participate in his research.”

The national recognition noted in the title of this paper included:

1)       a US Presidential Award for science research mentoring, a White House program administered by the National Science Foundation. The White House brochure said that Oppenheimer’s philosophy was that all interested students should be given the opportunity to do research.

Research should not be reserved for the elite.

2)       election as a Fellow of the American Association for the advancement of science (AAAS). A Fellow of the AAAS is defined as a Member whose efforts on behalf of the advancement of science or its application are scientifically or socially distinguished. Specifically of Oppenheimer as a AAAS Fellow it noted for studies on cell surface carbohydrates in morphogenesis and malignancy. And also for award winning programs that bring advances in science to the student

3)       statewide Trustees Outstanding Professor Award of the 500,000 student California State University system (largest public university system in the United States). Two of about 20,000 faculty are selected for this highest system wide award each year.

These honors resulted from an open door student research program, student career outcomes, student co-authored publications and 14 textbooks/textbook editions. Most of all Oppenheimer’s enthusiasm, energy and humor were instrumental in this success. This program is replicable for those with the energy, enthusiasm and motivation to work with many research students. This paper will explore all the components of this program (Note 1-94).