Supporting Women in the Sciences
Maria Obregon M'74 returned to campus to try out the Varian AA-55B, an Atomic Absorption Spectrometer that she donated to the Chemistry department. Professors Lee Jones and Peter Markow were also on hand and the three chemists set to work. As it was explained to the non-scientists in the room, the Varian AA is used to determine the metals in liquid solutions - the amount of lead in water, for example.
"This is a common instrument used in analytical chemistry labs," Dr. Markow said. "By having it, we can give students direct experience with a very sophisticated instrument."
That, of course, was the motive behind Ms. Obregon's gift. A retired chemist for the State's Department of Health, Ms. Obregon worked extensively with the Varian AA, often testing lead levels in human blood. She knows that the students' ability to access this type of equipment is invaluable in developing their proficiency.
A long-time supporter of the College, Ms. Obregon established the M. Obregon Women in Science Endowed Scholarship and is a member of the Golden Dome Society. She has also donated other lab equipment including pH meters and pipettes.
"Maria is both generous and specific in her gifts," said Mary Kate Cox, associate vice president of Institutional Advancement. "As a scientist, she is committed to helping other women succeed in the field and she always finds a way to match her interests with the College's needs. For years to come, students will benefit from Maria's generosity."
