University of Iowa President Sally Mason announced on Aug. 26 that Dennis Heimdal, environmental lab specialist, is one of six recipients of the UI Outstanding Staff Awards.

These awards recognize staff for outstanding accomplishments and contributions that significantly benefit or bring honor or recognition to the University.

Heimdal has worked with the Hygienic Laboratory since 1997. Five years ago, he accepted the position of laboratory scientist at Lakeside Laboratory in Milford, Iowa, where he reopened the Bovbjerg Water Chemistry Laboratory that had been out of operation for several years.

“The reopening of the lab was not only strategically important to the University of Iowa and the State Hygienic Laboratory, but also to the public in northwest Iowa,” said Don Brown, president of the Friends of Lakeside Lab. “It showed that both the U of I and SHL were responsive to the area’s needs for local water quality awareness.”

Heimdal is responsible for the operation of the environmental laboratory focused on water quality analysis. Under his leadership, the laboratory received accreditation, expanded the testing capabilities and completed testing contracts with neighboring states. Heimdal also conducts lab training opportunities for area students and presents educational programming to community groups.