Tag: geology

Celebrating the 2025 WAAIME SME Scholarship Recipients

We are proud to congratulate this year’s GMES recipients of the WAAIME SME scholarships! All of these Michigan Tech grad students in mining engineering, Brighton Muwi, Daniel Muchabaiwa, Kudakwashe Mutanga, and geology student Ben Mperekwa, received awards. These outstanding students have demonstrated exceptional dedication to their academic and professional journeys in the fields of mining, metallurgy, geology, and related disciplines.

The WAAIME scholarship is awarded annually to students who exhibit academic excellence, leadership potential, and a passion for advancing the future of the mining and minerals industry. This prestigious award supports their educational pursuits and recognizes their contributions to shaping the future of mining and earth sciences.

Championing Academic Excellence and Innovation
Each recipient is committed to academic achievement and a drive to innovate and contribute to the mining and geological fields. Through their hard work, these students represent the next generation of industry leaders who will tackle challenges, drive sustainable practices, and lead advancements in mining and mineral exploration.

Empowering Tomorrow’s Industry Leaders
Receiving the WAAIME SME scholarship is a testament to the recipients’ dedication and potential. This support allows them to further their education, pursue internship opportunities, and engage with industry professionals who will mentor them throughout their careers.

We celebrate each recipient’s hard work and the bright future they represent. Congratulations again to all the WAAIME SME scholarship winners – your achievements inspire us all and pave the way for a stronger, more innovative future in mining and geological sciences.

Stay tuned for more updates and stories from our incredible students as they continue to achieve and impact the world of earth sciences!

Helen Foldenauer Recognized as Outstanding Teaching Assistant for Mineral Science

Michigan Technological University’s Department of Geological and Mining Engineering and Sciences (GMES) is proud to recognize Helen Foldenauer, a 1st year MS Geology graduate student, as this year’s recipient of the Outstanding Teaching Assistant award for her exceptional work in the Mineral Science course.

Helen demonstrated a deep commitment to student learning. Her expertise in mineralogy, petrology, and geochemistry has been instrumental in guiding undergraduate students through the complexities of mineral identification, classification, and analysis.

Helen provided this image, in which she functions as a scale bar.

A Strong Foundation in Geology

Before joining Michigan Tech, Foldenauer earned a Bachelor of Science in Earth and Environmental Science from the University of Michigan, where she also minored in chemistry. She later completed a Geographic Information Sciences (GIS) certificate at Western Michigan University, gaining expertise in geospatial analysis that complements her geological research interests. Her academic achievements include University Honors, the James B. Angell Scholar Award, and a nomination for the Feinberg Writing Award—all testaments to her dedication to excellence.

Foldenauer’s research interests center on solid Earth geochemistry, geochronology, igneous activity and monitoring, and natural hazards. Her passion for geoscience education has translated directly into her work as a teaching assistant, where she has been praised for her ability to clearly explain complex mineral science concepts and engage students in hands-on learning.

From Field to Lab: Applying Expertise in Mineral Science

With prior experience as a field and laboratory technician at the Kellogg Biological Station, Foldenauer has developed strong analytical skills, including petrographic microscopy, elemental analysis, and standardized lab protocols. Her background in both fieldwork and laboratory research has made her an invaluable resource in the Mineral Science course, where she has helped students connect theoretical knowledge with real-world geological applications.

Look closely, and you’ll spot Helen once again serving as a scale bar.

Foldenauer’s ability to mentor students, her enthusiasm for teaching, and her dedication to fostering a supportive and engaging learning environment set her apart as an exemplary TA. Faculty and students alike recognize her patience, clarity in instruction, and hands-on approach as key factors in enhancing the classroom experience.

A Passion for Teaching

As she continues her graduate studies at Michigan Tech, Foldenauer remains committed to scientific research and student mentorship. Her future goals include furthering her work in mineral chemistry and geochemistry, with aspirations to contribute to geoscience education and field-based research. Helen says, “One of the things I enjoyed most about TAing mineralogy was seeing the students work together to build a solid understanding of the material and how it connected to larger concepts in geology. When I was offered the TA position, I was excited to have the opportunity to lead a classroom and determine if teaching was a career in which I had any potential.

Congratulations to Helen Foldenauer on this well-deserved recognition! Her dedication to mineral science education and student success truly exemplifies the excellence of Michigan Tech’s GMES department.

Gustavo Bejar-Lopez Honored as Outstanding Scholarship Recipient

Gustavo back on Fuego and Acatenango Volcanoes for another round of monitoring equipment deployment in February 2025.

The Department of Geological and Mining Engineering and Sciences (GMES) proudly recognizes Ph.D. candidate Gustavo Bejar-Lopez as an Outstanding Department Scholar for his exceptional contributions to volcanology and natural hazard research.

Bejar-Lopez’s passion for volcanoes began in his childhood in Ecuador, where he witnessed the eruptions of Tungurahua Volcano. That early fascination grew into a career dedicated to better understanding volcanic hazards. As a Ph.D. student at Michigan Tech, he has played a pivotal role in advancing lahar early detection systems through his research on Volcán de Fuego in Guatemala. His work integrates seismology, machine learning, and geostatistics to enhance hazard assessments, focusing on using machine learning techniques for lahar forecasting.

Beyond research, Bejar-Lopez is committed to mentorship. He has strengthened Michigan Tech’s collaborative ties with his undergraduate alma mater, Yachay Tech University, by involving students in field research. In 2023, he secured a National Geographic Explorer Grant, which allowed him to expand research efforts and provide hands-on training opportunities for students from both institutions.

GMES faculty have praised Bejar-Lopez for his leadership, problem-solving skills, and dedication to scientific collaboration. Bejar-Lopez says, “The most fulfilling part of my PhD has been learning from our collaborators, everyone from the scientists at INSIVUMEH, to the people in the communities like the observers who are truly the experts of Fuego. Their knowledge didn’t only benefit scientific advancement in my work. It did also put into perspective the importance of working together to relieve some of the struggles people vulnerable to hazards live with.” His efforts in geophysical monitoring, combined with his role as a mentor, exemplify the values of Michigan Tech’s research community.

Congratulations to Gustavo Bejar-Lopez on this well-earned recognition!

Exploring Geoscience Careers, Connections, and the Keweenaw Peninsula: Insights from GE1100

Safety first! Kylie Overly is pictured underground wearing the proper gear.

Michigan Tech students gain insight into geoscience careers and programs, experience engaging field trips to the Keweenaw Peninsula, and build connections with department faculty and resources in the Geo Engineering & Science Orientation (GE1100) lab. Discover the fascinating geological features Kylie enjoyed learning about, and explore our list of current undergraduate and graduate courses the GMES Department offers. 

More about GE1100 – GE1100 is a one-credit introductory course for freshmen or sophomores in geoscience-related majors in the fall.

  • What majors require it? Geology, Applied Geophysics, Geological Engineering, Mining Engineering 
  • How many credits? 1
  • Semesters offered? Fall 
  • Prereqs? None
  • Must be enrolled in one of the following Major(s): Geological Engineering, General Sciences and Arts, General Engineering, Mining Engineering, Applied Geophysics, Geology
  • May not be enrolled in one of the following Class(es): Junior, Senior

Catalog Description: Introduction to geosciences as a profession, including discussions of career opportunities and geoscience programs. Earth materials and the Earth’s processes are also introduced. Includes frequent field trips. Intended for freshman or sophomore students in geological engineering, geology, applied geophysics, hydrology, geotechnics, earth science teaching, or any other geoscience program.

The instructor is Aleksey Smirnov, Chair, GMES.

TA for Fall 2024 is Sam Jensen, BS Applied Geophysics ‘25
Hometown: Gladstone, Michigan


Kylie Overly is pictured with Sam Jensen at Hungarian Falls.

Find out what Kylie Overly had to say about her class experience:

This class does a great job of introducing the department and some local places to incoming students.

Would You Recommend This Class? 

Yes! I recommend this class to other students if they are curious about geological engineering or the department.

Favorite Aspect of the Class:

I liked the Saturday field trips to explore some fantastic spots in the Keweenaw Peninsula. 

Most Exciting Thing Learned:

The most exciting thing I learned in this class was how the peninsula’s geology is mirrored on the other side of Lake Superior.

Prerequisites Needed?

None. Since it’s an introductory class, no prior knowledge is required.

Value of the Class:

I learn something new in each class!

Future Benefits:

This class is highly beneficial. The Wednesday lectures introduce us to the department’s professors, giving us opportunities to talk to them if you are interested in that subject.

Kylie Overly and Sam Jensen pose together at the scenic Horseshoe Harbor.

National Park Service Resources:
https://www.nps.gov/piro/learn/nature/lake-superior.htm
https://www.nps.gov/isro/learn/nature/geology-and-soils.htm

Milena Sremba: A Glimpse into the HSAG Program’s Impact on Her Geology Path

Meet Milena Sremba, BS Geology 2028
Hometown: Hudsonville, MI

Discover how the HSAG program fast-tracked Milena’s geology career at MTU, offering advanced courses and research opportunities – learn from her journey and get inspired!

Milena Sremba’s senior photo with the majestic Rockies near Boulder, Colorado, as a backdrop.

Q: How did HSAG impact your decision to study geosciences or engineering?
A:
I have known for a long time that I wanted to pursue a science degree, but the HSAG course truly helped me realize that my passion is geology.

Q: Why MTU?
A:
Not many colleges offer geology as a major; if they do, the department isn’t great. MTU has a fantastic department and physical geology around campus to immerse myself.

The GE1100/Geo Eng & Sci Orientation class embarked on an unforgettable journey through the historic Quincy Mine—Milena captures the moment with a selfie!

Q: How did HSAG help you succeed at MTU?
A:
Taking the HSAG courses accelerated my studies in the geoscience department at MTU. I also took advanced chemistry, placing me in the second year of geology courses.

Q: What is the best advice to give a current HSAG student?
A:
Put in the work now, as it pays off a lot in the future.

Q: If Current: What do you like best about GMES?
A:
I love how the professors excel in their topic. I also love how, even if you’re a freshman, you still have an opportunity to get involved in research.

One of the many recess caves during Milena’s vacation in Hocking Hills.

Q: What’s a standout story or lesson you’ve gained during your journey with GMES?
A:
So many different people come together in the GMES department, but we are all united by our love for geology.

Learn Geology Where it Happens: The Natural Wall and GE3100

A famous geological spot, the Natural Wall (located on private property!), is a resistant bed of the Jacobsville Sandstone that has been turned on its side to nearly vertical. This sandstone, a bacon-looking rock, is a Global Heritage Stone Resource (GHSR). This initiative aims to expand the acknowledgment of stones used in constructing heritage sites in emerging countries. The GHSR designation is a scientific effort to promote the geological understanding, utilization, and preservation of historically significant natural stones worldwide. This designation is overseen by the Heritage Stone Subcommission of the International Union of Geological Sciences in collaboration with the International Association for Engineering Geology and the Environment.

Michigan Tech students gain practical, hands-on experience visiting the Natural Wall in their Depositional Systems (GE3100) lab. Learn more about this unique geological feature, and explore our list of current undergraduate and graduate courses the GMES Department offers.

Jacob Ojala, a junior in geological engineering from Hancock, Michigan, with a minor in aerospace, is seen leaning against the wall.

More about GE3100 – Explore the dynamic world of sedimentary processes and learn to decode the Earth’s history through sedimentary rocks, climate, sea level, and tectonic shifts.

  • What majors require it? Geology, Applied Geophysics, and Geological Engineering. Forestry can use as an Environmental Directed Elective.
  • How many credits?
  • Semesters offered? Fall 
  • Prereqs? Understanding the Earth (GE2000), Intro to Petrology (GE2310)

The instructor is Jeremy Shannon, a GMES Teaching Professor. Jeremy earned his BS in Geological Engineering from MTU in 1994, his MS in Geology in 1996, and his Ph.D. in 2006. He has also instructed courses such as GE2000 Understanding the Earth, GE2100 Environmental Geology, GE3050 Structural Geology, and GE4090 Field Geophysics.

Catalog Description: Introduction to sedimentary processes and their products. Investigates the physical processes controlling sedimentation along with principles of correlation and interpretation of strata. Focuses on interpreting sedimentary rocks as a record of climate, sea level, and tectonic change.

Do you need help with the material? The Geo Learning Center is here to help!

Birds-eye view of Jeremy Shannon with students in his GE3100 lab investigating the Natural Wall in Calumet, Michigan, during fall 2024.

Standing tall and showcasing geological history, the Natural Wall is a striking example of the Jacobsville Sandstone, a Global Heritage Stone Resource. Michigan Tech students get hands-on experience exploring this unique formation in their GE3100 lab, unlocking the secrets of Earth’s past through sedimentary rocks and processes. Find this interesting? Read on to learn how the Depositional Systems class may interest you!

Photo courtesy of Emily Gehrke, a geology undergraduate student.

This is private property, so kindly avoid trespassing. Interested in learning more? Apply now. 

Sources:
https://www.mtu.edu
https://www.geo.mtu.edu/KeweenawGeoheritage/The_Fault/Nat_Wall.html
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rxspwJDNz48
https://www.unesco.org/en/iggp/igcp-projects/637
https://www.iugs.org/
https://iaeg.info/
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-X3EE_jNDRg
https://www.copperrange.org/natural.htm

From High School Advanced Geology (HSAG) to GMES Student Spotlight

Meet Miah: A Passion for Geosciences and the Outdoors at Michigan Tech

Miah Mol

This fall, GMES welcomed a new member to the department: Miah Mol, an undergraduate student from Hudsonville, Michigan, pursuing a degree in geology and applied geophysics with plans to graduate in 2028. Discover how taking High School Advanced Geology (HSAG) in high school prepared Miah for success in geology at Michigan Tech. Her Q&A highlights the beauty of the campus, the GMES department’s excellence, and the opportunities available to proactive students.

Q: How did HSAG impact your decision to study geosciences or engineering?

A: Taking HSAG in high school solidified my want to study geosciences in college and made me 10 times more excited for my future in geology!

Q: Why did you choose Michigan Technological University?

A: The location is absolutely gorgeous, and there is so much to do outdoors, no matter the weather. The GMES department is also top-notch compared to most other universities.

Q: How did HSAG help you succeed at MTU?

A: Taking HSAG allowed me to advance into higher-level GMES classes during my first year, putting me a year ahead of most other GMES majors.

Q: What is the best advice to give a current HSAG student?

A: Work hard to succeed in your HSAG class and get college credit. It is 100% worth it!

Q: What do you like best about the Department of Geological and Mining Engineering and Sciences at Michigan Tech?

A: What I love most about the GMES department is the abundant research opportunities.

Q: What’s a standout story or lesson you’ve gained during your journey with GMES? 

A: In the GMES department, I have learned that if you know what you want, you can ask for it, and GMES can make it happen; you just need to take the first step!

Miah is enjoying her time in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan.
Miah takes in the Northern Lights.

Congratulations, Fall 2024 Graduates!

Completing a college degree requires tremendous effort, dedication, and sacrifice, and you’ve made it happen. Congratulations on your success!

The Department of Geological and Mining Engineering and Sciences is immensely proud of your well-deserved achievement. This is a momentous occasion and a testament to your dedication and perseverance. You should feel proud of your accomplishments and the bright future that awaits you.

A moment from the MTU 2024 spring graduate commencement, captured by Kaden Staley.

Master of Science Degrees Awarded Fall 2024

  • Large, Conor  MS Geology, Advised by Luke Bowman
  • Sanchez Aguilar, Jhuleyssy  MS Geological Engineering, Advised by Snehamoy Chatterjee
  • Kunle, Bejide  MS Geology, Advised by Luke Bowman
  • Targbwe, Rapheka  MS Mining Engineering, Advised by Luke Bowman
  • Addai, Charles MS Mining Engineering, Advised by Snehamoy Chatterjee
  • Wiafe, Benitta MS Mining Engineering, Advised by Luke Bowman
  • Cocke, Ryan MS Geology, Advised by Luke Bowman
  • Donkoh, Isaac (M50484414) MS EMG, Advised by Luke Bowman
  • Yeboah, Maxwell Yeboah (M33730552) MS EMG, Advised by Luke Bowman

Bachelor of Science Degrees Awarded Fall 2024

  • Seth Farmer, B.S. Geology
  • Noah Hodson, B.S. Mining Engineering (Cum Laude)
  • Tanner McDonald, B.S. Geology
  • Anton Smirnov, B.S. Geology

Certificate Graduates

  • Locklear, Dakota Geoinformatics
  • Milanzi, Nyasha  Geoinformatics
  • Kavousi, Sara Natrl Hazds & Disaster Rsk Red
  • Yeboah, Maxwell Yeboah  Geoinformatics
  • Odoh, Izuu  Geoinformatics
  • Krier, Jacob  Natrl Hazds & Disaster Rsk Red
  • Krier, Jacob  Geoinformatics
  • Brodowski, Ella Natrl Hazds & Disaster Rsk Red (not in GMES)
  • Large, Conor Natrl Hazds & Disaster Rsk Red
  • Aghaei, Nelly Natrl Hazds & Disaster Rsk Red
  • Kunta, Rishitha Geoinformatics

Award & Scholarship Recipients

  • Outstanding GTA Award Sananda Ray
  • Outstanding Scholar Jhuleyssy Sanchez Aguilar
  • Avery Spalding Clarissa Gordon DeCleene 
  • Rapheka Targbwe WAAIME Scholarship
  • Oden Horne WAAIME Scholarship
  • Alice Schmaltz 2024 Copper Club Scholarship
  • Gustavo Bejar Lopez 3MT & Nat
  • Natalie Sorensen 2024 AIPG Undergraduate Scholarship
  • Konraad VanDyke AIPG Michigan Section Mozola Scholarship

Take a moment to reflect on all you have accomplished and the invaluable support you’ve received along the way. Your success is a testament to your hard work and the encouragement of those around you. Congratulations again to the graduates, and best wishes for a bright and prosperous future!

Kaden Staley documents the joy of MTU’s 2024 spring graduate commencement.
Spring 2024 undergraduate commencement ceremony.


Building connections, one marshmallow, bracelet, and cup of cocoa at a time!

The Geological and Mining Engineering and Sciences Department (GMES) is home to a close-knit community of undergraduate and graduate students in mining engineering, geology, geological engineering, and geophysics. While we may be a smaller department, we pride ourselves on fostering meaningful connections among our students. Whether through game nights, campfire marshmallow roasting, tea times, or movie nights, we repeatedly prove that GMES truly rocks!

On Tuesday, December 3rd, GMES welcomed all Huskies to our Atrium for a day of creativity and connection. We created a warm and inviting atmosphere with hot cocoa, brownies, and friendship bracelet supplies. The event had a fantastic turnout, and we hope the memories made will remind everyone of their cherished time at MTU for years to come.

A woman, Angela, stands in front of large windows with a view of the outdoors, holding a steaming cup of hot cocoa in both hands. She is gazing contentedly, with soft natural light highlighting her face and casting gentle shadows behind her.
Angela Amoh, who expects to graduate with her MS in mining engineering next fall (2025), tastes the hot cocoa.
Jhuleyssy Liesseth Sánchez Aguilar, who completed her MS in geological engineering this month, stands next to MTU Senate President Robert Hutchinson from the College of Business.
Audrey Fall (left) and Sarah Woodworth (right) are majoring in geology. Are you following @mineral_rescue on Instagram?
Jhuleyssy and Sarah chat while they create bracelets.
Pictured left to right: Sara Kavousi, Benjamen Udota, and Angela Amoh.
MTU beaded bracelets.
December 3rd, 2024.

GMES Alumni Spotlight Q&A: Simone Puel

Simone Puel, MS Geology, 2017, Michigan Tech University
Advised by: Greg Waite
Thesis title: Comparison of Ambient Noise Methods to Find Surface-Wave Dispersion Curves at Pacaya Volcano, Guatemala
MS.c. Geological Sciences and Geotechniques, 2017, Univ. Milano-Bicocca
Ph.D. Geophysics, 2023, UT Austin
Home City: Trento, Italy
Simone’s publications.

Professional portrait of Simone Puel, showcasing a confident and approachable expression, dressed in business attire.
Simone Puel’s professional portrait.

MTU alumni Simone Puel, an expert in volcanology and earthquake physics, credits his transformative experience at Michigan Tech’s GMES program for launching his career. Thanks to the prestigious INVOGE dual-degree program, he studied with top researchers worldwide, sparking a passion for academia that led him to UT Austin and Caltech. Now an Earthquake Risk Modeler at Moody’s, he applies cutting-edge science to global challenges in insurance and finance. His journey, enriched by lifelong friendships and unforgettable road trips, exemplifies the boundless opportunities MTU offers. Ready to explore his remarkable story?

Q: Why did you choose MTU?

A: It was a pretty easy choice. MTU’s GMES program is one of the best in volcanology and volcano seismology, so it was a perfect fit for what I wanted to study. The double-degree program MTU offered (originally called INVOGE) with the University of Milano-Bicocca, the University at Buffalo, and Blaise Pascal University in France was a huge opportunity—it allowed me to study with top researchers worldwide.

Q: How did your time at MTU prepare you for your industry/career?

A: Working with great professors and researchers at MTU motivated me to keep pushing myself academically. If I hadn’t had such a positive experience there, I don’t think I’d have pursued a Ph.D. or had many of the career opportunities I’ve had since. MTU gave me a strong foundation that’s been crucial at every stage of my career.

Q: What has your career path been like since you graduated?

A: After my year at MTU, I returned to Italy to finish my Master’s degree. My research experience at MTU hooked me to academia, so I started applying to Ph.D. programs in the U.S. and New Zealand. In between, I interned at a geology engineering firm in Italy, giving me hands-on experience. Eventually, I headed to UT Austin for my Ph.D., where I focused on earthquake physics and advanced numerical models. After that, I spent time at Caltech as the Director’s Seismolab Scholar, studying how geodetic data can reveal information about Earth’s internal structure. Recently, I joined Moody’s as an Earthquake Risk Modeler, working on solutions to assess and manage seismic risks for sectors like insurance and finance, impacting industries and governments worldwide.

Simone standing at the BAciO 2016 workshop on Stromboli volcano, Italy, with a vibrant Strombolian volcanic eruption lighting up the sky in the background.
Simone at the BAciO 2016 workshop in Stromboli volcano, Italy with a stunning Strombolian volcanic eruption in the background.

Q: What’s it like to return to the campus now? Have you noticed any changes?

A: I haven’t had the chance to visit Houghton or MTU since I left in 2016, but I’d love to come back one day and see how things have changed.

Q: What is the most impactful memory of your time here?A: Without a doubt, it’s the friendships I made. I’m still close with many friends from those days; some even came to my wedding recently. One unforgettable memory is a surprise party that friends threw for Diletta and me, the other Italian INVOGE student. Then there were the road trips we took—one all tHoughton to Tampa, Florida, and another that took us through Colorado, Utah, and Arizona, with a stop at Yellowstone National Park. Those are unforgettable experiences.

Q: What is your favorite activity when you return to campus?

A: If I return, I’d love to catch a Huskies hockey game and visit everyone in the GMES department. So many good memories were made there—it felt like a family.

Q: What advice would you give someone starting at Tech as a Husky?

A: Try to learn as much as possible, take advantage of the fantastic people there, and use the resources offered by the department and university. And, of course, always be curious. Enjoy the community, too—although the weather might be harsh sometimes, the friends you make there can last forever.

Q: Looking back, what opportunities do you wish you had taken advantage of here?

A: As it was my first experience studying in the U.S., I wasn’t fully aware of all the resources and opportunities MTU offered. I wish I’d explored more professional and networking events, maybe some career workshops and industry partnerships. Those could have been incredibly valuable early in my career.

Simone and Federica Lanza, an MTU GMES alumn, working together to deploy and collect infrasound volcanic measurements during an active Strombolian volcanic eruption, with the glowing eruption in the background.
Simone and Federica Lanza, an MTU GMES alumna, deploying and collecting infrasound volcanic measurement during a Strombolian volcanic eruption.

Q: What networking opportunities did you take advantage of as a student?

A: As a student, I attended two great conferences: the BAciO workshop at the Stromboli volcano, where I connected with researchers from Italy, Hawaii, and Germany. The other was the AGU 2016 conference, which was a fantastic way to meet scientists from around the world and learn about different areas of Earth sciences.

Q: What is your current position’s unexpected benefit/skill set? What did you not realize at first was a part of what you do?

A: One unexpected benefit is how vital my broad scientific and engineering background has been in my current role. I hadn’t realized how essential it would be to combine knowledge from multiple areas to solve complex problems, especially in risk assessment at such a large scale.

Q: Any other comments?

A: Go Huskies!

Simone on a road trip through Colorado, Utah, and Arizona, enjoying scenic landscapes and stopping at iconic destinations, including the breathtaking Grand Canyon.
Simone on a road trip through Colorado, Utah and Arizona, with highlights including a visit to the Grand Canyon.