Class of 2024 Chemistry Major Named Goldwater Scholar

Whitman College junior Clare Hermanson has been selected as a 2023–2024 Goldwater Scholar by the Barry M. Goldwater Scholarship and Excellence in Education Foundation. Hermanson, a Chemistry major from San Diego, California, was one of only 413 who earned the scholarship—among more than 5,000 applicants. Historically, she joins the elite ranks of a dozen previous Whitman students who received the scholarship or an honorable mention since the early 1990s.

Established by Senator Barry Goldwater, the organization was founded in 1986 and began awarding scholarships in 1989. The Goldwater Scholarship Program is a national scholarship for those studying natural sciences, engineering or mathematics. Goldwater seeks to identify, encourage and financially support sophomores and juniors who show promise as the next generation of science researchers.

Hermanson’s research looks to the future.

“My current research focuses on nanocrystal synthesis with an automated system. In the future, I hope to utilize automated chemistry to solve pressing environmental problems.”

She’s proud to represent Whitman College, she says.

“This award validates my scientific skills and motivates me to pursue a research career. I appreciate the opportunity at Whitman to conduct meaningful chemistry research.”

Hermanson also had help and a boost from her faculty advisor, Mark Hendricks, Assistant Professor of Chemistry.

“Working in Professor Hendricks’s lab has been the highlight of my undergraduate education,” says Hermanson. “I am grateful to Professor Hendricks for his invaluable mentorship and encouragement to apply for this scholarship.”