Christopher A. Gellasch
GSA member since 1991
I joined GSA as an undergraduate student more than 25 years ago and have remained a member since then. As a military geologist I typically move across the country (or overseas) to a new assignment every few years and am frequently the only geologist assigned to my organization. I am a hydrogeologist working primarily with environmental and public health professionals in a mix of academic and applied settings, so GSA is my professional home where I can interact with other geologists. I frequently attend the GSA Annual Meeting each fall and enjoy catching up with my friends and colleagues while also meeting new geoscientists.
Being a part of GSA gives me the opportunity to share my research and learn about a variety of relevant, high-impact geoscience research presented by others. The interdisciplinary nature of GSA’s Section and Annual Meeting technical sessions is appealing because my interests span a wide spectrum, including hydrogeology, geochemistry, geology and health, and military geology. In addition to giving research presentations at meetings, I have also published my research through GSA publications. The GSA short courses and field trips allow me to engage in lifelong learning and remain current in my field.
My GSA membership also allows me to give back to the profession in many ways. I have organized several technical sessions at meetings, served on GSA committees, participated in numerous mentoring programs, and recently was the Hydrogeology Division Technical Program Chair for GSA’s Annual Meeting. I find these volunteer opportunities to be both personally and professionally rewarding because they allow me make a difference and broaden my network of colleagues. Why is GSA membership important to me? For all of the opportunities it provides to me and for the opportunity to help others through my service to the organization.
Christopher A. Gellasch
Assistant Professor
Eastern Michigan University
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