The Harry H. Johnston
Award
Dr. Harry Johnston came to Asheville-Biltmore College
in 1967 (before it became UNCA) as Chairman of the
Division of Science and Mathematics and Head of the
Department of Biology. He taught Microbiology and
Genetics, and loved working in the lab with his students.
He came to be known as "Dr. J". Through an impressive
grant he received to develop interdisciplinary science
studies and undergraduate research, he obtained many
important pieces of equipment for use by the Biology,
Chemistry, and Physics departments. Dr. Johnston was an
independent-minded individualist and was deeply concerned
with ethical behavior, peace and the environment. He
built his home in Sandy Mush and was developing it as a
farm and real estate when he died in a tractor accident
in June 1984 after 16 years at UNCA.
The award was established in his name in 1985 and is
given each year to the student who has demonstrated
excellence in Biology. Donations may be designated
specifically for this fund.