Jessica Hao '19 and R.J. Glaser '19 have been named this year's Lilley Fellows.
"The Lilley Fellowship provides students with a unique and incredible opportunity to pursue a passion inspired by JTerm," explained Jessica. "After learning about the cardiovascular system during Dr. Kelley Bethoney's Body Systems JTerm course, I will further explore the causes and treatment of bacteria-induced atherosclerosis with the resources provided by the Fellowship."
R.J. was inspired by his JTerm trip last January to the Blackfeet Indian Reservation in Montana. "I saw all of the dilapidated homes and abandoned buildings," explained R.J. "This is where I really thought it would be nice to help rebuild, or come up with a way to help the community." The goal of his project is to design a model house and develop blueprints for cost-effective housing for the Blackfeet community. During the summer, R.J. plans to return to the reservation to solicit ideas from residents. He will be mentored by Upper School science teacher Perry Zanki, Hon.
Jessica will work on her project under the supervision of Upper School science teacher Dr. Kelley Bethoney. She will use various types of chemicals found in toothpaste to try to determine which toothpaste is most effective in eliminating the plaque that can threaten the heart. "I am able to research throughout the academic year and into the summer, a one-of-a-kind chance for continuous experimentation," said Jessica. She will conduct her research in the Upper School science lab.
"The first class of Lilley Fellows demonstrated a keen sense of drive, intellectual curiosity, and passion for their projects," said Upper School history teacher Max Kelly '06. "After completing an intense application process, they are ready to start the process to make Mr. Lilley's goal for this Fellowship become a reality." Mr. Kelly oversees the Fellowship program.
The fellows will present their findings and projects to the Upper School community in September 2018.
Through the generosity of Mr. and Mrs. William Lilley III '55, the Fellowship supports educational opportunities for Upper School students to pursue an extended in-depth project related to EA's JTerm course work. "JTerm instills and tests initiative, independence, and tenacity," observed Mr. Lilley. "The Lilley Fellowship jumps off from the JTerm platform."
The Lilley Fellowship Fund was announced in the fall. Fellowships are awarded to students who exemplify academic curiosity, intellectual rigor, and scholarly passion. The Lilley Fellows will pursue an independent study to create a capstone product while working in a professional setting to develop their expertise and interests.