Five University of Rochester undergraduates have received Barth-Crapsey research fellowships. The students will have an opportunity to present their research upon completion.
The purpose of the award is to stimulate high-quality, primary research by undergraduates in the humanities and social sciences -- particularly government, politics and political history, social and religious history, and literature. It also encourages exploration of the historical and cultural heritage of the Rochester and Monroe County area.
The award allocates up to $600 per winner for the acquisition of books and documents, research-related travel, and other research expenses.
Nazanin Barzideh, a senior from Albertson, N.Y., will delve into "Religious Traditions of Iranian Jews in Iran and the United States." Associate Professor Emil Homerin of the religion and classics department will serve as Barzideh's adviser.
Ryan Bolton, a freshman from Westwood, N.J., will research "An Environmental History of the Genesee River: The Interaction of Law, Industry, and Nature." Bolton's adviser is Professor Theodore Brown of the history department.
Keri Capone, a sophomore from Penfield, N.Y., will explore "Orality in Music Education." Assistant Professor Joyce Middleton of the English department serves as Capone's adviser.
Ankur Karnik, a freshman from Plainview, N.Y., will consider "Attitudes About End-of-Life Care." Karnik will conduct his research under the advisement of sociology professor Dean Harper.
Michael Villa, a senior from Medway, Mass., will study "The Use of Repatriates in American Intelligence." Villa is under the advisement of Assistant Professor Jeffrey Burds of the history department.
The Barth-Crapsey awards are funded through a gift to the University from Rochester resident Arthur Crapsey and his late wife, Class of 1940 alumna Jean Barth-Crapsey, who passed away last December. For those wishing to honor her distinguished service to the University and the City of Rochester, her family welcomes contributions to the Barth-Crapsey endowment in her memory.
For more information, call chemistry professor Thomas Krugh at (585) 275-4224.