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Ellul, Maria D. and Jeffrey L. Sain Endowed Fellowship

The Maria D. Ellul and Jeffrey L. Sain Endowed Fellowship in the College of Polymer Science and Polymer Engineering was established in 2011 by Dr. Maria D. Ellul and Mr. Jeffrey L. Sain in honor of their love for The University of Akron and education.

Dr. Ellul was born and educated in the Republic of Malta. She earned her bachelor of science degree in chemistry from The Royal University of Malta in 1977, her master’s degree in polymer science from The North London Polytechnic in 1979, and her Ph.D. in polymer science from The University of Akron in 1984. After graduation, Dr. Ellul worked at General Tire Research Center. In 1991 she joined Advanced Elastomer Systems, L.P., currently ExxonMobil Chemical Company, where she presently is principal scientist. Throughout her career, Dr. Ellul has contributed to both fundamental and applied research in elastic polymer materials and thermoplastic elastomers. Her passion for polymer research has resulted in many scientific publications, more than 50 U.S. patents, and various commercial products. Among her honors and awards, Dr. Ellul is a recipient of the Sparks-Thomas Award and the Chemistry of Thermoplastic Elastomers Award of the American Chemical Society, Rubber Division. In 2010, Dr. Ellul received the Outstanding Alumni Award from the University’s College of Polymer Science and Polymer Engineering.

Jeffrey Sain graduated in 1982 from The University of Akron with a bachelor’s degree in mass media communication, and he received a master’s degree in 1985. Mr. Sain is a fifth-grade teacher and media specialist at Holy Family School in Stow, Ohio. His passion for teaching, care, and concern for his students is evident in his work. He also has written and produced documentary programs that aired on public television and cable stations.

Upon arriving at The University of Akron, Dr. Ellul recalls being accepted by the University with open arms as she started to pursue polymer research under the guidance of Distinguished Professor Alan N. Gent. Both Dr. Ellul and Mr. Sain agree that The University of Akron provided them with a solid foundation and made a marked difference in their lives. They share their passion for education with their two daughters, Victoria and Elizabeth.

The purpose of The Maria D. Ellul and Jeffrey L. Sain Endowed Fellowship is to provide an annual award to a deserving Ph.D. student in The College of Polymer Science and Polymer Engineering, affording him or her the same opportunity that was given to Maria as she pursued her education. The recipient of the award must declare a desire to pursue a Ph.D. in the field of polymer science.