2024–25 Fondren Fellows
The Fondren Fellows are delving into creosote's environmental and health impacts. Their work sheds light on historical pollution and creates resources for remediation and justice. Explore their digital archive documenting these impacts.
Fondren Fellows Project Details
Creosote Contamination in Houston’s Fifth Ward
The Creosote Contamination in Houston’s Fifth Ward project aims to collect, archive, and interpret data and stories surrounding environmental injustice in Houston’s Fifth Ward. Designated a cancer cluster by the TCEQ, this area faces long-term pollution from creosote exposure. The Fellows are developing a digital collection that includes oral histories, explainers, and community documents.
Mentor: Dr. Lisa Spiro
Dr. Lisa Spiro, Executive Director of Digital Scholarship Services at Rice, supports students in digital archiving, metadata standards, and project planning for public access.
Mentor: Dr. Qilin Li
Dr. Qilin Li brings expertise in environmental engineering and toxicology, guiding students in scientific data interpretation.
Mentor: Dr. Carrie Masiello
Dr. Carrie Masiello provides scientific oversight on geochemistry and environmental policy and is Director of the Rice Sustainability Institute.
Mentor: Dr. Weston Twardowski
Dr. Weston Twardowski supports storytelling and community engagement through environmental humanities approaches and media strategies.