Dr. Gene Willeke Institute for the Environment and Sustainability Scholarship

Geographic Scope: Available to students in Miami University's Institute for the Environment and Sustainability (IES) graduate program

Eligibility: Students enrolled in Miami University's Institute for the Environment and Sustainability graduate program

Focus Areas: Environmental science, sustainability, environmental research

Background

Butler Rural Electric Cooperative has a long-standing relationship with Miami University's Institute for the Environment and Sustainability (IES) graduate program. The IES educates students through programs in environmental science and sustainability and provides leadership in areas of research and outreach that address environmental problems and promote a more sustainable society.

The IES has completed several projects for the cooperative in the past that focused on dual fuel, geothermal, and solar energy. The relationship between the cooperative and the IES began thanks to Dr. Gene Willeke, former director of Miami University's Institute of Environmental Sciences (now the IES). He served as the institute's director from 1977 to 2004 and retired in 2005. Gene received the Benjamin Harrison Medal from Miami University, one of the most significant recognitions the university offers to faculty for contributions attesting to qualities of teaching, research, and service. Gene passed away January 31, 2016.

In 2016, the cooperative named the IES scholarship the Dr. Gene Willeke Institute for the Environment and Sustainability Scholarship to honor Gene and his commitment to the school and the cooperative.

Contact Information:

• Main Office & Mailing Address: 3888 Stillwell Beckett Road, Oxford, OH 45056
• Phone: 513-867-4400
• Office Hours: Monday through Friday 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.