Elizabeth Evans

Elizabeth Evans received the 2023 HHCF Scholarship as a student at Missouri Southern State University. A first-generation college student, Elizabeth’s path to environmental health was shaped by growing up in poverty and a determination to help the less fortunate.

Elizabeth completed an internship at Oak Ridge National Laboratory in the Center for Nanophase Materials Sciences, where she researched LED blue light effects on melatonin levels and worked on air quality, radiation safety, chemical safety, SDS updates, RFID verification, and emergency preparedness. She described overcoming “imposter syndrome” as a first-generation student and sophomore placed in a junior-level research position.

In her thank-you letter to the foundation, Elizabeth shared that this was her third time pursuing her degree and her second time with MSSU, with one year remaining. She wrote: “It is a validation that I am doing something right. A sign to not give up.”

Her goals include improving the relationship between Environmental Public Health practitioners and the public.

Congratulations, Elizabeth! Your perseverance in pursuing your degree and your outstanding work at Oak Ridge National Laboratory are a testament to your determination. We are inspired by your story and excited to see you build bridges between environmental health professionals and the communities they serve.