(l to r) Bill Bare, Jessica Shahan, Karin Warrin

Thanks to a generous scholarship, Jessica Shahan ’08 can explore options for a global warming solution. Jessica’s support comes from the Myers Scholarship, funded by Martha Myers Smith ’38 and honoring her sisters Emily Myers Clingman ’35 and Mildred Myers Caperton ’38.

Jessica conducted a summer research project with Assistant Professor of Environmental Studies Karin Warren and Assistant Professor of Chemistry Bill Bare. Jessica investigated how to convert frying oil into biodiesel fuel and helped build a reactor. As a result, the College this summer plans to begin converting its frying oil into biodiesel fuel for use in diesel-powered equipment and vehicles. Not only is the fuel more environmentally friendly, it is cheaper

Professor Warren (holder of The Herzog Family Chair in Environmental Studies) adds, "We felt it was important to take a position on climate change and do our part to help our community become more sustainable and one part of that is addressing the greenhouse gasses our college contributes to the atmosphere."

Interim president Virginia Worden agrees. "It seems to me, at this time in our nation's history and the world's situation we all need to be making our own little commitments."

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