Novato native to study pre-natal and maternal health in Senegal over winter break

BELOIT, WI (12/20/2011)(readMedia)-- Novato native and Beloit College chemistry and French student Jennifer Gilbertson will spend her winter break in Senegal studying pre-natal and maternal health by observing a mid-wife and participating in public health activities in a rural community.

Gilbertson's research is made possible by an International Project Grant administered by the college's Office of International Education that allows a handful of students to carry out projects or research between semesters. The senior was one of five students to receive a grant for winter break. The winners were announced this week.

Gilbertson is a 2008 graduate of the Sonoma Academy and the daughter of Roger and Dalia Gilbertson.

International Project Grants are offered twice each year for independent research, internships and other activities enabling students to gain practical experience related to their studies.

Grants come from three sources: the Freeman Asian Studies Project, supported by the Freeman Foundation; the Weissberg Human Rights Grant, supported by Marvin and Nina Weissberg'84; and the International Education Grant, supported by gifts from Betty Chenoweth'55 and several other donors. The grantees were selected from a pool of applicants by a joint committee of faculty and staff.