As the manager and organizer of the U.S. competition, I am always amazed at the talent and vision of today’s youth.  Over the years, I have had the good fortune to meet some of the most gifted high school students in the country as they discover ways to address water challenges. In fact, this year two U.S. high school students – Rachel Chang and Ryan Thorpe of Manhasset, N.Y. – won the international competition for their novel approach to detect and purify water contaminated with bacteria.

High school students eagerly submit their research papers each year in hopes they will be chosen as the state winner, advance to the national competition, and ultimately be selected as the national winner to represent the U.S. at the international competition in Stockholm. 

When the students arrive at the national competition, there is a buzz of excitement, nervousness, and anticipation as they set up their displays; but soon, they begin gravitating towards one another to learn about each other’s projects.  Quickly the nerves turn to smiles and laughter as the students realize that they are among peers with like-minded interests, leading to late-night discussions about their projects and ideas.  As a few students stated:

• “It’s so exciting to meet other people who are passionate about water research and see what other students my age are doing to change the world; definitely by far one of my best high school experiences!”
• “SJWP inspired me to expand my research to be more applicable to the field of environmental engineering”
• “It helped me to feel like I am heading in the right direction for my future.”
• “It is what opened doors for me and helped me realize what I was passionate about in engineering and science.”

It’s statements like these that let me know we are on the right track.  Tapping into the unlimited potential of today’s youth, providing a way for them to showcase their talents, and fostering relationships with water professionals is key for the industry’s future.  Regardless of whether these students move forward in the competition, they leave as water ambassadors, with a new hope and better understanding of how they can make a difference in the world.  The competition not only leaves an impression on the students, but also on the judges and volunteers who donate their time and effort to be a part of this program. One of this year’s judges declared, “This was one of the most rewarding professional experiences of my career - to witness the creative and thoughtful process of these future leaders in our industry.”

Those who know me know that this program is dear to my heart. Providing students with the opportunity to participate in the U.S. Stockholm Junior Water Prize is also very important to the Water Environment Federation and its commitment to advance education and careers in water. 

However, as I’ve witnessed, it does not come without a cost.  It is a continuous challenge to seek out donors and sponsors to help support the program.  We are so thankful for our Member Associations who provide transportation costs for the students to travel to the national competition, and to Xylem Inc. for their continued support as a national sponsor. But more funds are needed to maintain and grow the program.  The costs to support these students, who may otherwise not have an opportunity to showcase their projects, includes accommodations and meals, as well as printed materials, marketing opportunities, supplies, etc.

As Giving Tuesday approaches, I hope that you will consider donating to the U.S. Stockholm Junior Water Prize.  Supporting this program will ensure that students from around the country will continue to have an opportunity to educate the world through fresh young eyes regarding the importance of clean water and wastewater treatment.  The rewards gained for these students and our own future are immeasurable.  To make a donation click here.

If you’d like to learn more about the Stockholm Junior Water Prize, visit www.sjwp.org.

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Donations will be used to directly support students at the U.S. Stockholm Junior Water Prize national competition and the international competition in Stockholm, Sweden.

Thank you for your support!