Eugene A. "Gene" Shinn is known worldwide among geologists, marine scientists, and petroleum engineers. Primarily self-taught with decades of hands-on field experience, he has made major geological discoveries that have significantly enhanced professional and academic knowledge. Initially handicapped by the lack of advanced degrees, Shinn's drive, hard work, and genius led him to the top of his profession and the receipt of the Twenhofel Medal--the highest award given by the International Society of Sedimentary Geology.