Earth Sciences alumna, Sara B. Pruss, named 2026 ’50 Under 50′ by GSA

Congratulations to USC Earth Sciences alumna Sara B. Pruss, a 2026 recipient of the Geological Society of America’s 50 Under 50 Award.

Pruss is the Esther Cloudman Dunn Chaired Professor of Geosciences at Smith College. She earned her Ph.D. and M.S. from USC, where her field-based research examined the aftermath of the end-Permian mass extinction and Neoproterozoic carbonates.

The 50 Under 50 Award is a joint initiative of the Geological Society of America, the Geological Association of Canada, and the Sociedad Geológica Mexicana. It recognizes outstanding mid-career geoscientists across North America for significant contributions through research, service, and mentorship.

Learn more about Sara B. Pruss at Smith College and view the 2026 GSA 50 Under 50 Award recipients.