Kerry Cato, professor of geological sciences, was awarded the prestigious Floyd T. Johnston Service Award from the Association of Environmental and Engineering Geologists (AEG), which is recognized as an international leader in the field.

The Floyd T. Johnston Service Award is a highly regarded recognition presented to individuals who have demonstrated active, long-term service to AEG. The award, named after the association’s first executive director, Floyd T. Johnston, is bestowed on one member each year who has contributed exemplary service to the association for at least nine years. 

Cato was presented the Floyd T. Johnston Service Award by then-AEG President Sarah Kalika at the AEG Annual Meeting in Philadelphia.
Cato was presented the Floyd T. Johnston Service Award by then-AEG President Sarah Kalika at the AEG Annual Meeting in Philadelphia.

Cato’s decades of service to AEG in Texas, North and South Carolina, and, since 1995, in California earned him the prestigious honor. This complements Cato’s long professional career in engineering geology, which started in 1985. The award was presented to Cato at AEG’s Annual Meeting in Philadelphia.

Since 2016, Cato has taught geology and natural sciences courses at CSUSB, specializing in engineering geology and natural hazards. His expertise and research in these areas provides students with valuable insights and learning opportunities.

Asked why he devoted so much work to AEG, Cato replied, “AEG helped me get started in my professional career, and I hope to pass this passion along to geology students in their career search.”

AEG, which provides information on environmental and engineering geology to practitioners, scientists, students and the public, recognized Cato’s years of service to the association. His work not only helps advance knowledge in his specialization but also supports the growth and stewardship of the field. The award serves as a testament to his ongoing commitment to the advancement of environmental and engineering geology.