Citation by Joseph P. Colgan
In a prolific career spanning 50 years with the Texas and Nevada state geological surveys, Chris Henry produced dozens of high-quality, societally relevant geologic maps accompanied by important new scientific insights. An early mentor once told me the best geologist is the one who has seen the most rocks, and few have seen more igneous rocks in the western United States than Chris. By combining exhaustive field observations and careful mapping with high-precision geochronology, Chris made fundamental contributions to our understanding of ignimbrite calderas, volcanic stratigraphy, igneous-related mineral deposits, and the tectonic evolution of the western United States and northern Mexico. Throughout his long career Chris exemplified the spirit of the Florence Bascom Award, tirelessly supporting the state geological survey mission to provide stakeholders with critical data, and generously sharing his knowledge with generations of students and colleagues working on problems in Cordilleran tectonics and igneous geology.
Response by Christopher D. Henry
Receiving the Florence Bascom Award—being recognized for geologic mapping—is a great honor. Although many people and organizations have contributed to whatever success I have had, I specifically recognize three tonight. First, excellent undergraduate training in mapping at CalTech got me started. Second, a career entirely at the Texas and Nevada geological surveys, which value geologic mapping and have excellent cartographic-GIS staffs that made whatever I produced look good. Third and especially important, long collaboration with many not just good but commonly exceptional geologists. I learned so much from them, and collaborating both in field work and derivative study greatly increased the understanding of basic and applied science gained from mapping. Even with all the major technological advancements in geology, including in mapping capability, simple geologic mapping—determining fundamental characteristics and relations between rocks—remains an essential and increasingly needed part of geology to address real human concerns.