Posted on Thursday, June 4, 2026
Jordan Deems, a rising senior environmental science major at Westminster College, received the Helen R. Ferguson Scholarship for excellence in environmental science during the annual Bartramian Audubon Society Awards Ceremony on May 11 at Jennings Environmental Education Center in Slippery Rock, Pa.
The scholarship is awarded annually to an environmental science major who has demonstrated excellence in environmental science and education.
Deems, who also minors in entrepreneurship, is a leader in the Westminster Bee Company, where she manages campus honey sales and contributes to product development. She also participates in outreach initiatives with New Wilmington schools, helping encourage younger students to engage with environmental issues.
At Westminster, Deems has distinguished herself in courses such as Contemporary Environmental Issues, Geographic Information Systems and EcoTravel National Parks in the Southwestern United States. This summer, she will continue her environmental leadership as an intern at Moraine State Park.
“Jordan is an outstanding student,” said Dr. Kerri Duerr, associate professor of biology and director of the Harms Center for the Environment at Westminster. “Her love for the outdoors and passion for sustainability and community engagement have made an impact on the Westminster environmental program. Her dedication, enthusiasm and commitment to environmental stewardship make her exceptionally deserving of this recognition.”
Deems resides in Volant, Pa., and is a graduate of Wilmington Area High School.
The Bartramian Audubon Society is a local chapter of the National Audubon Society that serves Butler, Lawrence, Mercer and Venango counties. The scholarship was established by long-time Bartramian Audubon member Helen Ferguson and continues in her memory.
