NAU News for April 16, 2021 — ‘Seven new Regents’ professors (including Miguel José Yacamán) showcase NAU’s research and scholarly excellence’ and more news

	Seven new Regents’ professors showcase NAU’s research and scholarly excellence Regents’ professor is a recognition afforded to only 3 percent of all faculty and is truly an honor. Each was nominated by their peers for outstanding achievements and international recognition in their fields. The Arizona Board of Regents approved the promotions at their meeting Thursday.
	That’s a wrap: Second virtual Undergraduate Symposium sees another year of student success despite pandemic The symposium was held online for the second year in a row, but that didn’t stop students from showcasing their talents, ongoing research and accomplishments achieved in the midst of a pandemic.
	🎓 Graduate Shantel Henry: Scientist from the start finds her place in STEM A first-generation senior studying biology and chemistry, Henry has realized her self-worth through undergraduate research with professors Frank von Hippel and Catherine Propper. Henry presented a poster at this week’s Virtual Undergraduate Expo and Symposium.
	The Diné legacy: NAU professors, alumni join long list of contributors to collaborate, share stories in new anthology of Navajo literature NAU professor Jeff Berglund was co-editor on the anthology, which represents Diné literary artistry and features interviews, biographies and contributions from several Diné authors, including NAU alumni. The collection has received several positive reviews.
	Deciduous trees offset carbon loss from Alaskan boreal fires, new study out of NAU finds The study, led by Ecoss’ Michelle Mack, began after the 2004 fire season in Alaska, which led to a dramatic shift in the trees that grew in the area. Researchers found the aspen and birch trees absorbed more carbon more quickly than the black spruce it replaced.
	Mars’ moment: Planetary scientists from NAU, USGS share experiences watching Perseverance land on the Red Planet Postdoc Valerie Payre and assistant professor Mark Salvatore said the rover’s seven-minute descent through the atmosphere and onto Mars’ surface, while a little nerve-wracking, was a triumph. They’re eagerly anticipating the data that will be returned to Earth.