College Hosted Workshop for Girl Scouts
Posted on Monday, March 29, 2010
Westminster College mathematics and science faculty hosted a daylong workshop for Girls Scouts March 20.
Westminster faculty who participated were Dr. Helen Boylan, associate professor of chemistry; Dr. Carolyn Cuff, professor and chair of the Department of Mathematics and Computer Science; and Dr. Karen Resendes, assistant professor of biology.
"The goal of this and future events is to expose girls to the excitement and career possibilities in the sciences," Boylan said.
The scouts, from a fourth-grade troop at Mohawk Area Elementary School in Bessemer, worked on two badges during the workshop.
For the Science Sleuth badge, the girls learned forensics to solve the case of "Who Stole the Thin Mints?" Dr. Terri Lenox, Westminster associate professor of computer science and co-director of Westminster's Drinko Center for Excellence in Teaching and Learning, was the "prime suspect." Techniques used included microscopy, DNA extraction, fingerprinting, casting of tire tracks, and composite sketch drawing.
For the Puzzler badge, the scouts looked at optical illusions, solved word search and maze puzzles, and learned how to win the game of Nim.
"The girls loved the problem-solving aspects," Cuff said. "They learned that scientists search for answers to many different types of problems."
"The enthusiasm the girls expressed for the biology they learned from this event was impressive," Resendes said. "I hope they can maintain this level of interest and excitement for science as they mature. I look forward to future opportunities to work with young women."
Westminster junior chemistry/forensics major Ashley Blystone assisted with the day's activities. She is a daughter of Brian and Jessica Blystone of Ford City and a graduate of Ford City High School.
Boylan, a Westminster graduate who joined the faculty in 2001, earned a Ph.D. from Duquesne University.
Cuff, a Westminster graduate who has been on the faculty since 1989, earned a master's and Ph.D. from Case Western Reserve University.
Resendes, who joined the Westminster faculty in August, earned an undergraduate degree from the College of William and Mary and Ph.D. from Brown University.
Contact Boylan at (724) 946-6293 or e-mail boylanhm@westminster.edu for additional information.
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