The Geology Department is delighted to announce Professor Mary Droser (UC–Riverside) as our 45th Woodford-Eckis Lecturer. Dr. Droser’s world-renowned paleontology research focuses on the form and ecology of some of Earth's earliest animal life. This year's lectureship is a bit earlier than usual: January 31–February 1, 2025. Events kick off with a Friday afternoon (4:00 PM) talk by Prof. Droser devoted to Recruiting and Engaging High School and Community College Students in the Earth Sciences. A reception and invited dinner will follow the talk. Prof. Droser's second talk will be delivered at the conclusion of our Woodford-Eckis banquet on Saturday evening (February 1). Her second talk is entitled: Unearthing the Record of the Dawn of Animal Life: Insights from the Ediacaran of South Australia. We look forward to welcoming many alumni and guests back for this year's Lectureship and remind you to watch email for event details and RSVPs.