Student Pugwash USA announces science and politics multimedia contest winners

After receiving more than 1,500 entries from young people highlighting the importance of science and technology in this year’s elections, Student Pugwash USA announced the winners of its 2008 Election Multimedia Contest for Cash. Bryan VanDuinen, 19, a student at the University of Michigan, was awarded the grand prize of $2,000. Information on the top entries can be found below and are available on Student Pugwash USA’s website, http://www.spusa.org

Student Pugwash USA sponsored the contest as part of the organization’s 2008 election resource, From Electrons to Elections. The online guide, available at http://www.spusa.org/2008vote , is a non-partisan resource designed to educate young voters on science, technology, and health issues, and engages them through blogging, YouTube videos, and polls. The guide grew out of a 2007 survey of young people conducted by Student Pugwash USA, in which over 80% of respondents called for greater emphasis of science and technology issues by the presidential candidates.

Grand PrizeBryan VanDuinen, University of MichiganEnergy/Environment: A New Apollo"Our dependence on fossil fuels is the primary cause of the most significant crises of our time, and yet the general public remains largely ignorant of the scope and interconnectedness of these problems. As much attention should be given to this issue as is possible.”

2nd PlaceKunle Demuren, Princeton UniversityHealth - HIV/ AIDS: It’s Not All Bad"I chose to write this essay because I believe these issues are just as important to our nation’s future as any other being discussed in the campaign.”

3rd PlaceRebecca Tutino, Cedar Crest CollegeScience education: Science Education & The American Public"Science education, usually lost among the many pressing science issues that are in the public sphere, remains a pressing issue that needs to be addressed. As someone considering a career in chemical research, this contest presented itself as an opportunity to reiterate the criticalness of the situation.”

Top VideoJace Perrodin, Pikes Peak Community CollegeStem cells: Do the Right Thing"The next President and Congress of the United States will be taking the helm at a turbulent time in our nation’s history. With so many pressing and difficult matters to deal with, I want to highlight the pressing issue - and the enormous promise - of stem cell research.”

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