On Sept. 27, the Kentucky Water Resources Institute (KWRI) held its annual symposium in Lexington, Kentucky. The KWRI symposium is a statewide event that brings together researchers, students, government officials, NGOs and community members, all focused on addressing water-related challenges in Kentucky.
At the symposium, Ariel Robinson, a Ph.D. candidate in the Pigman College of Engineering Department of Civil Engineering, was honored with the award for most outstanding platform presenter, showcasing her expertise and ability to effectively communicate complex and critical information to a broad audience.
Robinson's presentation included scientific perspectives on the regulatory landscape of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). PFAS are a ubiquitous group of pollutants that pose urgent concern for Kentucky and the nation — especially in light of growing evidence about adverse health effects, multiple PFAS sources in the environment and new 2024 federal drinking water standards.
Robinson, a trainee in the University of Kentucky Superfund Research Center and Lighthouse Beacon Foundation Graduate Fellow, delivered an overview that was contextualized for Kentucky stakeholders. She was able to provide key insights on a complicated and pressing issue facing the waters of the Commonwealth.
Co-authors on Robinson's presentation included Angela Gutiérrez, director of the Sustainability and Analytical Equipment Facility (SAEF), and Kelly G. Pennell, Professor, Earl Parker Robinson Chair of Sustainability and Environment, both from the Department of Civil Engineering.
