Presenter(s)

Matthew Beachy, Claire Genovese, Precious Henderson, Owen Smith

Comments

10:45-12:00, Kennedy Union Ballroom

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Description

In the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina, many communities in the Gulf Coast region faced severe water contamination, leaving thousands without access to clean drinking water. This project aims to introduce students to Hurricane Katrina, a category 5 hurricane in 2004. Students will learn details about the tragedy, the aftermath, a history of water filtration systems, and how they can give back to their communities during different natural disasters. After developing the appropriate background knowledge, the final assessment would end in students building low-cost, effective water filtration systems that could be easily deployed in disaster-stricken areas, providing immediate access to safe water. The project emphasizes simplicity and affordability, ensuring that the systems can be easily manufactured and maintained by affected communities. The project not only equips students with practical context but also fosters empathy and awareness of the ongoing challenges faced by communities impacted by natural disasters. Ultimately, this low-cost water filtration system serves as a model for future disaster relief efforts, demonstrating how students can advocate for their communities using their knowledge of historical tragedies and their lasting impacts on marginalized communities.

Publication Date

4-23-2025

Project Designation

Capstone Project

Primary Advisor

Novea A. McIntosh, Martha Omega Rutan

Primary Advisor's Department

Teacher Education

Keywords

Stander Symposium, School of Education and Health Sciences

Institutional Learning Goals

Diversity; Community

Advocating for Marginalized Communities: The Lasting Effects of Hurricane Katrina

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