Three to four presentations by top students in the capstone course, doing independent study, or departmental honors projects.
Student Abstracts
Department of Political Science Senior Capstone Presentations
The Department of Political Science welcomes you to Senior Capstone project presentations:
Ryan Mundy Analyzing the current and potential effects of SB 1, California's "gas tax"
Anna Lundsten The Empowerment of Women: A Case Study of Post-Genocide Rwanda
Kalin Woodward
Analyzing the Effectiveness of the National Park Service on Environmental Conservation: Case study of Yosemite National Park
Nakiessa Abbassi Can Beauty Harm? Revitalization and Environmental Justice Along the Los Angeles River
Student(s):
Nakiessa Abbassi
Faculty Mentor:
Dr. Jose Marichal
Solutions for the Clean Up of the Santa Susana Field Laboratory
In 1959, the Santa Susana Field Laboratory suffered a partial meltdown that still has yet to be properly cleaned up. Commonly known as LA’s nuclear secret due to the fact that it was kept from the public, many people in the surrounding communities of Simi Valley and Chatsworth have suffered severe health issues - most notably above average cancer rates as a result of contact with contaminated groundwater. Through this project I will analyze the laws that have been written in an attempt to ensure a thorough clean up process of the site, as well as determining why past efforts have failed. I did extensive research on the laws that have been passed and repealed, court cases that have been filed, and current efforts that are being made by politicians and community organizations. I also consulted with a professor on her research regarding the clean up of the Field Lab, and further discussed the complicated battle between the site’s public and private owners. I will give insight into the necessary policy tools that need to be utilized in order to create a law(s) that will provide the best possible outcome for those it affects. This research is currently ongoing, and results are projected to reveal that stronger federal regulations, or the allowance of state authority, will be needed in order to ensure that the necessary measures are taken for treating the soil and groundwater and upholding high public health standards.