Casey Sidwell, a liberal studies student, has won a McNair Scholarship to research the role of community gardens in promoting a sustainable urban environment.

The McNair Scholars Program, sponsored by the U.S. Department of Education, prepares undergraduate students for doctoral studies by engaging them in research and other scholarly activities.

"I'm really excited to work with my mentor, Dr. Theresa Lloro-Bidart, in the Department of Liberal Studies, to study interactive work at the Center Street Community Garden in Pomona," said Sidwell. "Cal Poly Pomona's learn by doing approach has given me the opportunity to learn and retain information more effectively."

Sidwell also is a recipient of the university's Learn Through Discovery Award, which is presented to students working on a project that impacts the surrounding community. She received the award based on her research on the role of community gardens in fostering ecological learning, and for implementing a butterfly garden at the Center Street Community Garden.

"Earning a McNair Scholarship is a tremendous accomplishment," said Nancy Hurlbut, interim dean of the College of Education and Integrative Studies. "I'm pleased to congratulate Casey for this notable achievement and wish her great success in all of her endeavors."

Sidwell will begin her research project in June and report her findings at the McNair Symposium on campus next summer.