Codi Lazar, associate professor of geological sciences, is the recipient of the prestigious Athelstan Spilhaus Award from the American Geophysical Union (AGU). The award is given annually to an honoree for their enhancement of the public's engagement with Earth and space sciences through devoting portions of their career conveying the excitement, significance and beauty of the field.   

AGU is a nonprofit and global community of over 500,000 advocates and professionals in Earth and space sciences. It celebrates individuals who have made significant contributions to the field. This year, AGU honored 43 individuals and teams for their accomplishments in research, education, science communication and outreach. 

“Dr. Codi Lazar's recognition with the Athelstan Spilhaus Award from the American Geophysical Union reflects his tireless commitment to making the wonders of Earth and space sciences engaging and understandable for the public,” said Sastry G. Pantula, dean for the College of Natural Sciences. “At CSUSB, we celebrate his accomplishments, which exemplify how educators can inspire future generations and contribute to a deeper appreciation of science through innovative outreach and education. Our faculty like him make us more visible and help us define the future!”

Lazar was one of 43 individuals and teams honored by the American Geophysical Union for accomplishments in research, education, science communication and outreach. 
Lazar was one of 43 individuals and teams honored by the American Geophysical Union for accomplishments in research, education, science communication and outreach. 

For the Athelstan Spilhaus Award, AGU utilized a two-step nomination and review process. Lazar was evaluated on his work based on the quality and impact it had in the field, its reach to a broad or traditionally underrepresented audience, and its originality/innovative nature.

Lazar used social media platforms as part of his outreach efforts, including an Instagram account, which features a variety of geology humor for a global audience that has garnered over 30,000 followers.

He also created a YouTube series called “What’s My Rock?” that he films at CSUSB with geology graduate student Dylan Terry. The show was kickstarted by a grant from the CSUSB School of Entrepreneurship Faculty Fellows Program. In the show, people bring their rocks to Lazar and he identifies them.  

In addition to social media, Lazar created the album “Campfire Songs for Geologists,” which features geology-themed music, and performed songs from it at this year’s Geological Society of America conference. Additionally, Lazar designs geology-themed apparel and accessories.

Lazar expressed his appreciation for being honored with the Athelstan Spilhaus Award.

“I'm flattered for this recognition and grateful to my online audience of geology enthusiasts for the laughs and support,” he said.

Since 2015, Lazar has shared his expertise in geological sciences with CSUSB students by teaching courses in mineralogy and crystallography, geochemistry, and igneous and metamorphic petrology.
Since 2015, Lazar has shared his expertise in geological sciences with CSUSB students by teaching courses in mineralogy and crystallography, geochemistry, and igneous and metamorphic petrology.

Lazar will receive an engraved award; recognition at AGU’s annual meeting, AGU24, where over 25,000 attendees from more than 100 counties will gather in Washington, D.C.; and tickets to the Honor’s Banquet.

Since 2015, Lazar has worked at CSUSB, where he teaches courses in mineralogy and crystallography, geochemistry, and igneous and metamorphic petrology. In addition to his faculty role, Lazar shares his expertise in the field by serving on panel discussions, publishing scholarly articles, conducting interviews and collaborating with nonprofits.

Lazar's recognition with the Athelstan Spilhaus Award underscores his impactful commitment to enhancing public engagement in Earth and space sciences. His efforts not only inspire future generations but also highlight the vital role of educators in making complex scientific concepts accessible to all.