Adedamola Opalade, a Missouri State alumnus, recently won the Golden Torch Award from the National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE).

He received the award March 30 in Detroit, Michigan.

“I was more encouraged and motivated after the award ceremony,” Opalade said. “The ceremony gave me an insight into how society values excellence, positive impact and contributions.”

About the award

The Golden Torch Award recognizes the Graduate Student of the Year.

It is based on academic achievement, personal accomplishments and demonstrated leadership in science and engineering.

“The best part of the experience is the fact that my achievement got recognized nationally by the organization,” Opalade said. “I never would have thought of that happening. I met other awardees with ground-breaking achievements. I am highly impressed and motivated by the level of their achievements.”

About Opalade

Opalade graduated with his master’s in chemistry in 2016 from Missouri State. He worked in Dr. Nikolay Gerasimchuk’s lab.

He earned his bachelor’s in industrial chemistry at the University of Ibadan in Nigeria.

Opalade is currently working on a PhD degree in chemistry at the University of Kansas. He works in Dr. Tim Jackson’s lab.