Mark Suffolk came to NDSU from England at the age of 50 to pursue his doctorate in developmental science. He researched body image and eating concerns with Dr. Elizabeth Blodgett Salafia. Unfortunately, before completing his degree he was diagnosed with terminal cancer and returned to England for treatment.  In 2016 the developmental science faculty unanimously chose him for the “Outstanding Contributions in Developmental Science” award and he traveled from England to NDSU to receive the honor. Sadly, Mark passed away in August of 2016. The award has been renamed after him to honor his memory and scholarship.

"His research skills and classroom performance are unmatched. Although Mark may not be able to earn his doctorate, his contributions to the developmental science program, NDSU and the larger field deserve to be recognized,” said Dr. Blodgett Salafia.

Read more in a story about Mark from the Fargo Forum newspaper.