The time to talk is now, and the time to act is yesterday
The system was designed to silence conversations about race and racism; and agriculture and science are no exception. Open Rivers Navigator’s special, 3-episode series with Dr. LaKisha Odom’s encourages us to take responsibility by listening, learning, acting and reflecting on how we as individuals and organizations can do better to support our colleagues and communities navigating oppressive systems.
Meet the team behind Open Rivers
Open Rivers wants to do things differently; this is reflected by a fully virtual team of research assistants from diverse backgrounds with a broad range of interests and expertise. Each team member brings their own unique perspectives to shape Open Rivers.
Starting college in a pandemic
Given the unique circumstances of this year, it was more important than ever for Open Rivers to be active in our goal to support students. The Open Rivers Scholarship was founded in 2017 to encourage and support women in STEM fields, and has provided scholarships to 8 remarkable women featured on our newly relaunched scholarship page. We recently caught up with two of this year’s scholarship recipients, Danielle DaSilva and Sophia Chiaia, to learn about their goals in college, what they’re passionate about, and how the pandemic and subsequent response has influenced their plans.
Supporting students during Covid-19
During this time of the pandemic and pandemic-induced economic crisis, many groups are facing unknown challenges and high levels of uncertainty. Graduating seniors and graduate students completing their degrees are facing a double-whammy of downward pressure. However, there is much we can all do to help.
Catching up with the first Open Rivers scholarship recipient
I had the chance to catch up with Jill Rodgers, pursuing a degree in Mechanical Engineering, one of the first recipients of the Open Rivers scholarship, during a video call. She had abruptly returned from her study-abroad in France due to Covid.
Open Rivers version 2.0
Open Rivers re-launched at the end of 2019 after a short hiatus. We are excited to be back and have a lot to share. In time for the 50th anniversary of Earth Day 2020, our new website is up with updates on our work today.
The Open Rivers Scholarship
Providing opportunities and support to the next generation allows us to invest in the future and to remember the people who provided those opportunities for us in the past. In 2017, we established the Open Rivers Scholarship at my alma mater, Bethel High School.