Science Matters

From Hudson River Stories with Jon Bowermaster, visiting lecturer in Environmental and Urban Studies:

For many years, the Hudson River, like so many waterways across the U.S., was treated like an infinite waste barrel, a receptacle for poisonous chemicals, hazardous waste, and trash of all descriptions. During the past 40 years, thanks to a committed group of environmentalists and their agencies, the river has become markedly cleaner, a far more welcoming place for small business and community investment. While the river is still an underutilized natural resource, increasingly it is used by boaters, kayakers, and even swimmers as a recreational playground.

The liberal arts education at Bard prepares students to excel in changing fields in the sciences and mathematics. Faculty work closely with small classes, giving students the opportunity as undergraduates to contribute to advanced research that goes on to publication and presentation at national meetings. With the Senior Project, Bardians pursue substantive, original work of their own choosing that equips them for graduate school, research positions, teaching, and industry jobs.

The STEM Fellows at Bard’s Center for Civic Engagement have come up with a series of entertaining, simple science projects that can be done with supplies found in your kitchen.