VOORHEES, NJ, April 10, 2015 -- American Water (NYSE: AWK), the largest publicly traded U.S. water and wastewater utility company, recently announced that Allison Bergquist, a doctoral student at the University of Illinois-Urbana Champaign, has been chosen as the recipient of the American Water Works Association's (AWWA) 2015 American Water Scholarship. The scholarship is an annual award of $5,000 presented to a graduate-level student to assist with the development of professionals interested in service to the water industry.
Bergquist was selected for the scholarship based on her exceptional academic abilities, commitment to service and leadership to contribute to the advancement of science in the field of drinking water. Her current research is focused on a hybrid ion exchange-catalytic system for nitrate treatment, which could enable waste brine reuse after catalytic treatment to remove nitrate. Reuse of waste brine would significantly reduce the economic costs and environmental burdens associated with conventional ion exchange nitrate treatment.
"American Water is pleased to present this prestigious award to Allison, who was selected among 52 outstanding applicants," said Dr. Mark LeChevallier, director of Innovation & Environmental Stewardship and member of the award selection committee. "Not only is Allison an exceptional scholar, she is an experienced leader with a lot to bring to the water industry and has a clear passion for research and engineering. We are proud to help her advance her drinking water research studies."
Bergquist received a bachelor's degree in geography from the U.S. Air Force Academy and a master's degree in diplomacy from Norwich University. She is currently pursuing her Ph.D. in environmental engineering from the University of Illinois-Urbana Champaign, with a focus on water quality. Before beginning her Ph.D. studies and pursuing a career in environmental engineering, Bergquist spent 10 years working in the military, government and private sector supporting the Global War on Terrorism, including deployments to both Iraq and Afghanistan. She continues to serve her country as a Naval Reserve Officer.
See also:
"UMASS student receives AWWA water scholarship for drinking water research"
"AWWA introduces first-ever compensation survey for very small, rural water utilities"
About AWWA
Established in 1881, the American Water Works Association is the largest nonprofit, scientific and educational association dedicated to managing and treating water, the world’s most important resource. With approximately 50,000 members, AWWA provides solutions to improve public health, protect the environment, strengthen the economy and enhance our quality of life. For more information, visit www.awwa.org.
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