BLINN STUDENTS PRESENT GEOGRAPHICAL RESEARCH AT SYMPOSIUM
Blinn College students are uncovering history across the Brazos Valley.
Blinn’s Geographic Society was recently invited to attend the 11th annual Texas Geography Student Research Symposium at Texas State University to present their research on Salter Farm, a unique cotton plantation in Calvert, 35 miles north of Bryan.
The students’ project examines how Salter Farm has been influenced by the nearby Brazos River and how its use has transformed through the years. The once highly successful cotton farm is now a historical landmark, used for scientific research and outdoor education. It may also become a testing site for sustainable farming.
Megan Goree, Justin Adams, Josh Smith, Natalie Jacobs and Matthew Hernandez represented Blinn at the conference, presenting their research poster alongside students from several institutions, including Texas A&M University, Texas State University and the University of Oklahoma. Students Madison Price, Colton Brede, Vance Hammonds, Kensee Auld, Moises Ortiz and Yiheng Zhao also contributed to the research effort.
“I’m proud of the work the students put into this project outside of their normal coursework,” said Rhonda Reagan, advisor. “They know that their investment here can be used beyond the classroom. It’s wonderful to see them use their talents to fuel their passions.”
The Geographic Society was founded 15 years ago as a way for Blinn students to supplement their coursework with hands-on experience. Members attend field trips to study local geography, conduct research and learn from visiting speakers and professors. The group, advised by Reagan and fellow instructor Susan Slowey, is consistently invited to present research at conferences and symposiums across the state.
“When I found out about Blinn’s Geographic Society, I knew immediately that I wanted to be a part of it,” said Goree, club president. “Our experience at the symposium was great—we got to network with other students and faculty and learn what all it takes to create a quality research project. My experience at Blinn is preparing me for my future.
