Historian Explores Nature-Technology Relationship Through Power Grid Interruptions in 1920s California

In a new paper in the journal Environmental Humanities, Assistant Professor of History and Sociology of Science Etienne Benson examines nature-technology interactions through the threat that birds posed to the power grid in 1920s California. Power interruptions following short circuits in the massive electric line running from the Sierra Nevada to Los Angeles were found to be caused by streams of bird excrement. Benson explores the history of the mystery, including how the power company’s interventions were rendered invisible to the end user.

Read the full story here.

Arts & Sciences News

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Wale Adebanwi and Deborah A. Thomas Named 2024 Guggenheim Fellows

The award is designed to allow independent work at the highest level under “the freest possible conditions.”

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2024 College of Arts & Sciences Graduation Speakers

James “Jim” Johnson, C’74, L’77, LPS ’21, a School of Arts and Sciences Board of Advisors member, and student speaker Katie Volpert, C’24, will address the Class of 2024 Sunday May 19 on Franklin Field.

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Undergraduate and Graduate Students Honored as 2024 Dean’s Scholars

This honor is presented annually to students who exhibit exceptional academic performance and intellectual promise.

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Azuma and Hart Named Roy F. and Jeannette P. Nichols Professors of American History

Eiichiro Azuma specializes in Asian American and transpacific history, while Emma Hart teaches and researches the history of early North America, the Atlantic World, and early modern Britain between 1500 and 1800.

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Arts & Sciences Students Honored during 37th Annual Women of Color Day

Sade Taiwo, C’25, and Kyndall Nicholas, a Ph.D. candidate in neuroscience, were honored for their work.

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Nine College Students and Alums Named Thouron Scholars; Will Pursue Graduate Studies in the U.K.

The Scholars are six seniors and three recent graduates whose majors range from neuroscience to communication.

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