February 9, 2010 — Michelle Henry [Philadelphia Alumni Club Jefferson Scholar], a fourth-year student at the University of Virginia, has received a 2010 Luce Foundation Scholarship.

Henry, 21, who will graduate in May with masters’ and bachelor’s degrees in environmental science, will be able to work in Asia for a year with the Luce award.

“When I heard I had won, I ran out of my Lawn room and dove into the snow,” Henry said. “I am very excited and very humbled, because the competition was so intense.”

The scholarship program provides stipends, language training and individualized professional placement in Asia for 15 to 18 American students who have had limited experience of Asia and who might not otherwise have an opportunity in the normal course of their careers to know and understand Asia.

Henry’s studies and research have focused on bio-energy, such as ethanol and dual-fuel coal and wood boilers, and she plans to pursue a doctorate in sustainable development. She said working in Asia will provide her with many opportunities.
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