Apr. 21, 2017
CWU Geologist, Mathematician to Speak at Ellensburg Earth Day March for Science
Geology professor Susan Kaspari, and mathematics professor Dominic Klyve will speak tomorrow at the Earth Day March for Science in Ellensburg. The two Central Washington University professors are dedicated to promoting science education and furthering public understanding in all areas of science.
Kaspari, whose work examines the effect of black carbon (soot, a common air pollutant) on snow fields and ice melt, will speak about climate science in Washington State. One of her research projects examined the increased snow melt on Table Mountain due to black carbon, and its impact on wildfires.
"We need to know how to make progress on limiting climate change during a time when climate change science has been politicized," she declared. Kaspari also heads the ice-core laboratory that documents recent environmental change related to human activities.
Klyve, whose work with students has resulted in them discovering the world's largest weird number (among other things), has been nationally recognized for his teaching excellence. He recently received a $1.5 million grant to develop an innovative math curriculum based on primary historical sources.
Klyve will speak about the history of government and science, including the oldest scientific organization, the Royal Society for Improving Natural Knowledge in England.
"History shows us that government can be a powerful force for good in society when it promotes science and leaves scientists free to practice their craft," Klyve said. "These lessons are still important today, maybe more now than ever."
The Earth Day March for Science in Ellensburg will begin gathering at noon the US Post Office, 100 E. 3rd Avenue. The march will start at 1:00 p.m. and end at CWU's Student Union Recreation Building, where the speeches will take place.
Media Contact: Valerie Chapman-Stockwell, Public Affairs, 509-963-1518, valeriec@cwu.edu
April 21, 2017