Galloway, N.J. – Three students were named the latest recipients of the Board of Trustees Fellowship for Distinguished Students at the December board meeting.

The fellowship program was established in April of 1986. Since then, the program has supported student-initiated projects of undergraduate research and/or creative work in keeping with the educational philosophy and mission of Stockton University. Fellowship awards in amounts up to $1,000 each are provided semi-annually contingent upon available funds.

Tom Itaas, associate director of Academic Achievement Programs and Success Scholars Program, considers the fellowship a high-impact practice that provides students with important skills that will prove valuable once they graduate.

"These three projects will provide BOT FDS awardees with valuable hands-on experience in research, community engagement and environmental stewardship, all of which are essential skills in today’s job market,” Itaas said.

“Additionally, it allows these students to develop strong communication and leadership skills while working with underserved communities, preparing them for careers in education, nonprofit organizations and community outreach," Itaas continued. “Ultimately, these projects equip students with the tools to make meaningful contributions to society while advancing their personal and professional growth."

The fall cohort of BOT Student Fellows and their projects are:

Ashley Truesdell, a senior majoring in Geology

Project: Investigating the Roles of Fractional Crystallization, Crustal Contamination and Source Heterogeneity of the Croton Falls and Peace Lake Plutons

This project is designed to look at the isotopic composition of plutons to understand the roles of fractional crystallization, crustal contamination and source heterogeneity while also determining their relationship to the Cortlandt Complex in New York state.

Analyses will be completed using data collected through isotope analysis using a multi-collector inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometer (MC-ICP-MS) coupled with bulk rock geochemistry. Detailed field maps will also be constructed depicting different lithologies, flow structures and layering to decipher how the plutons were emplaced.

Advisor: Matthew Severs, associate professor of Geology

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Corinne Westenberger, a junior majoring in Geology

Project: Heavy, Critical and Potentially Toxic Metals in Soils from the Shawangunk Ore District, New York

The purpose of this project is to determine if any metals, including lead, zinc and cadmium are present in the downgradient soils of tailing piles of the former galena and sphalerite mine deposits in the Shawangunk Mountains in New York.

First, this project aims to see if the soils could be used as a means of looking for metal deposits of these critical minerals. Second, some heavy metals can be toxic in small amounts while others require much higher concentrations, producing an important environmental aspect of this project as well.

Advisor: Matthew Severs, associate professor of Geology

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Nicole Brown, a senior majoring in Business Administration

Project: Limitless in Literacy

The purpose of Limitless in Literacy is to help elementary school children by helping those who raise them. The goal of the project is to bring resources to the underserved segments of the local population where improving literacy is looked at as a daunting task.

Specifically, this project will connect students with literacy resources, programs, ideas, and activities and bring together members of the Atlantic City community to combat illiteracy and inspire the continuation of education by building confidence and fostering a nurturing environment for growth.

Advisor: Emily Van Duyne, associate professor of Writing & First-Year Studies

 – Story by Loukaia Taylor

– Photo by Susan Allen 

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