In honor of Francis W. Antonawich
During this year’s slate of Earth Week events, biology major Cody Knott ’26 was awarded the Francis W. Antonawich Memorial Award for Environmental Stewardship. The honor is presented annually to a biology major who has demonstrated environmental stewardship, leadership and excellent character during their time at St. Joseph’s University.
The award was established in 2018 to honor Francis W. Antonawich, the son of biology professor Francis Antonawich, Ph.D., and a beloved SJNY nursing student with a passion for the environment who lost his battle with cancer.
“I have had the privilege of having Dr. Antonawich as a professor for physiology and neuroscience who, throughout my time in class, has shared many stories about his late son and the great impact he had on the people around him,” said Knott. “With that said, despite only ever hearing stories of Francis W. Antonawich, it is a great honor to receive an award in his name.”
Cody’s Experiences at SJNY
Throughout the last four years, Knott has been heavily involved in campus activities, including serving as president of the Biology Club, treasurer of the Pre-Health Club, a lab assistant in the chemistry department and a tutor for the Office for Tutoring and Academic Development. He has also conducted research titled “Nanoparticle Toxicity: Comparing Regeneration Effects in Planaria” under the tutelage of Tetyana Delaney, Ph.D., associate chairperson and professor of biology.
As he prepares to graduate this May, Knott is reflecting on his time at SJNY and the biology department.
“My favorite part of being a biology major is learning about how the world and our bodies work, as I find a deep appreciation for the intricate interactions that are constantly at play. My favorite classes I have taken are physiology and applied industrial microbiology in particular, as these classes have such an immense application to my everyday life,” Knott said.
Professor-Student Mentorship at its Finest
One of the reasons Knott chose SJNY was for the small class sizes and ability to have close working relationships with professors. He credits both the biology and chemistry departments for impacting him during his time at the University.
“I have grown to have a great relationship with many of the professors, both in the chemistry and biology departments, as I feel that all of the professors have had a great impact on my success at St. Joseph’s,” Knott said.
He continued, “Dr. Delaney has been a great advisor to my undergraduate research, and I feel like I have accomplished great things with the help of my Biology Club advisor, Dr. Ivanovski. I have also worked closely with my chemistry supervisor and professor, Dr. Stadler, who has always taken interest in my success as well as my fellow students.”
To learn more about Francis W. Antonawich and the Environmental Stewardship Award, click here.
