On June 16, Kwabena successfully defended his master thesis research on developing an efficient synthesis of a glucose trichloroacetimidate donor, which requires only a single column over seven steps.  The overall yield for the synthesis is ~46%, which accounts for ~90% for each step.  His methodology highlights a novel protocol for a key NBS-mediated desulfuration reaction in the presence of an acid-labile protecting group.  With excellent achievement in education and good skills he acquired in synthetic organic chemistry at Ball State, he is well prepared to start his Ph.D. studies in the near future.  Best wishes!