NPRE Grad Student Selected as Fellow in WNU Summer Institute

J'Tia Taylor, a graduate student in nuclear, plasma, and radiological engineering, has been selected as a Fellow of the 2009 World Nuclear University Summer Institute, to be held July 5 through August 14 at the University of Oxford. The Summer Institute is open to about 100 WNU Fellows from some 35 countries, selected from among young nuclear professionals who demonstrate strong leadership potential.

 

Fellows will participate in an intensive six-week program at Oxford’s Christ Church College in the United Kingdom. World authorities on global environment and sustainable development, nuclear–related technology innovation, non-proliferation, and nuclear industry operations will present lectures and tutorials. The program will also include technical tours of nuclear and industrial facilities as well as cultural and social events.

 

Being chosen is an honor, Taylor said.

"I learned about the World Nuclear University Summer Institute when two (NPRE) doctoral students, Maria Okuniewski and Federico Teruel, participated during the 2005 inaugural year," she said. "All former participants that I spoke with encouraged me to apply and touted the perspective gained. Our department has a very positive reputation and record of participation in this global event, and I am proud to represent our department, university and country."

NPRE Department Head Jim Stubbins previously had served as a mentor to the Institute's Fellows. Taylor will receive awards from NPRE's Marvin E. Wyman and Felix T. Adler funds to help pay her costs for the Institute.

Affiliated with educational institutions in 30 nations, the WNU partnership has four Founding Supporters: the International Atomic Energy Agency, the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development's Nuclear Energy Agency, the World Association of Nuclear Operators and the World Nuclear Association. WNU's mission is to enhance international education and leadership in the peaceful applications of nuclear science and technology.

Writer: Susan Mumm editor/alumni affairs coordinator, Department of Nuclear, Plasma, and Radiological Engineering, 217/244-5382 (campus office), 217/821-6866 (cell) 217/347-2166 (home office).