Fund:

Douglas M. Morton Memorial Endowed Scholarship for Student Field Studies Fund

Department:

Earth & Planetary Sciences Dept D01055

Purpose:

Graduate or Undergraduate Student Support

BACKGROUND:
Dr. Morton graduated from the University of California, Riverside with a degree in Geology, and
the University of California, Los Angeles with a PhD in Geology. In 1963, Doug began his
career as a geologist with the California Division of Mines and Geology, and in 1972 embarked
on a 32-year career with the US Geological Survey. In 2007, Doug received the US Department
of Interior (DOI) Distinguished Service Award, the highest honorary recognition bestowed upon
an employee by the DOI. Doug was a prolific research scientist and the world’s expert on the
geology of Southern California, having published over 170 scientific papers and geologic maps.
Additionally, Doug was a faculty member at the University of California, Riverside for 42 years.
Geological research involving keen field observation was Dr. Morton’s primary passion and the
main source of data for his many publications. Doug was an accomplished birder and he had a
strong influence on the birding community in California from the 1970s to the 1990s. He was
always generous about sharing his passion of birds and is responsible for inspiring many people
to become birders. An avid gardener, Doug tended to both ornamental and edible plants and for
years kept a large and stunning display of orchids.
This scholarship fund will honor and sustain Doug’s legacy to the advancement of field geology.

Fund Purpose: The funds will be used to provide scholarships to graduate and/or undergraduate students in the Earth and Planetary Sciences at UC Riverside who pursue geological research involving keen field observation.

Eff: 02/28/2022 - True endowment converted from endowment intent #6I0097.

Criteria and Selection Process:
The Department of Earth and Planetary Sciences Scholarship Committee will select undergraduate and graduate students who meet the following criteria:
1. Are matriculating through the Department of Earth and Planetary Sciences
2. Have a GPA of at least 3.0.

In years when there is no candidate who meets the criteria, awards will be held until the following year.