UF geological sciences department to unveil Outcrop of Honor

November 3, 2011

GAINESVILLE, Fla. — To a geologist, an outcrop is part of the bedrock extending continuously for tens of miles beneath the Earth’s surface that has become exposed and is visible on the surface.

Now the University of Florida’s department of geological sciences has created an outcrop of a different kind, the Outcrop of Honor. This collection of 12- by-12-inch slabs of beautiful igneous, metamorphic and sedimentary rocks from around the world will be unveiled at 10:30 a.m. Saturday in Williamson Hall during the department’s Second Annual Alumni and Friends Homecoming Breakfast.

The brainchild of UF Research Foundation Professor and geological sciences department chairman Michael R. Perfit and Jackson Stoneworks Director Jack Ryals, the Outcrop of Honor was created to provide a special place to recognize the generous donors who provide support for the department. The rocks and the wall-mounted installation were donated by Gainesville-based Jackson Stoneworks, which makes custom granite and rock countertops for local customers and Lowe’s stores nationwide. Brass nameplates bearing messages from donors will be affixed to the rocks.

The Outcrop of Honor will ultimately contain the largest sampling of different rock types in the world, Ryals said, creating a museum-like display of natural rocks. The initial display has more than 70 stones. Ryals has contacted quarries worldwide to obtain donations of additional specimens beyond those his company has available.

The donated funds will be used to cover departmental expenses beyond what the UF budget provides. The first goal is to raise $25,000 to replace one of the aging vans used to transport students on field trips to the annual U.S. field camp course in New Mexico and to other geological sites.

“We are grateful to Jackson Stoneworks and our charitable alumni for providing this important support to the department,” Perfit said. “With the budgetary issues affecting higher education in Florida, creative ways must be found to increase funding. The Outcrop of Honor also has an educational function which makes it an even greater benefit to the department.”

After Homecoming weekend, anyone who wishes to see the Outcrop may stop by the second floor of Williamson Hall during regular business hours, which are 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.