CSU-Pueblo Project SEED scholars earns national scholarship

PUEBLO - Colorado State University-Pueblo sophomore and former Project SEED participant Brooklynn Trujillo has received a prestigious three-year national scholarship from the American Chemical Society (ACS).

Trujillo was awarded one of three $15,000 2016 Ciba Specialty Chemicals Scholars scholarships ($5,000 for three years awarded per year by the ACS), with renewal based on her grades, her status as a chemistry major, and recipient of a first year, non-renewable Project SEED Scholarship.

Since 2008, faculty in the Chemistry Department have helped to spark a passion for research among disadvantaged area high school students through Project SEED sponsored by the ACS. CSU-Pueblo is the only Project SEED site in Colorado.

In addition to developing laboratory, written and oral skills, students gain the knowledge and confidence that they are capable of conducting scientific research. Mentors also provide guidance, encouragement, and letters of recommendation for college. Some SEED students later work side-by-side with professional chemists to present their research projects at ACS local, regional and national meetings, and at other scientific meetings. Project SEED Coordinator for CSU-Pueblo Dr. Dave Dillon said presenting their summer research findings gives students exposure to chemists, engineers, and college students who review their research and motivates them to pursue science careers.

Trujillo said while participating in Project Seed for two summers, she was mentored by both Dr. Matt Cranswick and Dr. Sandra Bonetti, CSU-Pueblo chemistry faculty, and learned how to synthesize various compounds with Schlenk-line techniques and other laboratory skills which increased her understanding of organic and inorganic chemistry.

Following her summer experience on campus as a Pueblo South High School student, Trujillo enrolled at CSU-Pueblo and is now in her sophomore year pursuing a bachelor's degree in chemistry. She aspires to earn a doctor of chemistry and become one of the nation's leading chemists, contributing to significant research findings in order to make the world a better place.

"Project Seed helped me ease into my new college life and opened many opportunities for me," she said. "This coming April I will be presenting my research project from this summer at the American Chemical Society's Expo and Exhibit in San Francisco.

Colorado State University - Pueblo is a regional, comprehensive university emphasizing professional, career-oriented, and applied programs. Displaying excellence in teaching, celebrating diversity, and engaging in service and outreach, CSU-Pueblo is distinguished by access, opportunity, and the overall quality of services provided to its students.