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An independent study gave Marquis Scholar Catriona Mhairi Duncanson ’03 the opportunity to investigate the impact of World Bank water regulation policies in South Africa this fall.
“I have a great interest in developing nations and the problem of developing infrastructure,” says Duncanson, an A.B. engineering major, who was guided by Sharon Jones, associate professor of civil and environmental engineering. “The particular social, economic, and environmental situation of a country can make development appropriate or inappropriate.”
One of her main interests was to learn how various factors are considered before the application of World Bank policy. “We concluded that perhaps the World Bank was limiting South Africa’s sovereignty in deciding its own water treatment policies,” she says.
“Professor Jones is able to offer new courses that increase the breadth of the A.B. engineering program,” adds Duncanson. “Although we just met this semester, she has already shown herself to be qualified, enthusiastic, and caring. She is always available and approachable.
“Lafayette is able to accommodate many students working on special interest projects and the faculty are willing to either share their expertise or learn along with students who are interested in a new area. In the A.B. engineering program, I am especially fortunate because I am encouraged to pursue interdisciplinary projects and to look at the big picture.”
Duncanson participated in a Technology Clinic team that presented recommendations to Lehigh Valley Physicians Group on how to improve the patient experience in doctors’ offices. She is a member of Lafayette Christian Fellowship, Lafayette Environmental Awareness and Protection, and Alternative School Break Club.