Three seniors named to U.S. academic team

Jennifer Broder conducted research about the sociological structure and agricultural system of the Amazon. Rosalind Greenberg developed a community newspaper for the low-income Philadelphia area. Oren Becher discovered a cell-line that affects hair growth. All three are College seniors, linked by academic achievement and a desire to improve the world. The students were among the top 80 winners named to the 1996 All-USA College Academic First Team, representing outstanding college students from across the nation. Out of 1,231 students, Broder and Greenberg were chosen to be on the second team, while Becher earned an honorable mention. "Having three students on the academic team is a very significant number," said Assistant Director in the College of Arts and Sciences Sandra Schwartz. "I think this says something positive about the University." Last year, the University had only one representative. Winners were selected in a three-step process from students nominated throughout the country. The judges -- all educators -- considered grades, academic honors, leadership roles on and off campus and students' use of their talents outside of the classroom. "There are so many outstanding Penn students that fit the qualifications," said Schwartz. "We tried our best to inform the people who would be interested, but so many people here have a real sense of social conscience." The final judges represented national higher education organizations. "It was a very difficult decision to choose just 20 [for the first team]," Women's College Coalition Executive Director and judge Jadwiga Sebrechts said in a press release. "The top 80 all deserved it." The members of the first team each received $2,500 in cash prizes. "The first team was so amazing," Broder said. "It made me thankful to be on the second team." Becher said he was also surprised about his award. Broder is currently applying for grants to study in various countries including Japan and Costa Rica.