Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI) student Chloe Sharp ‘26, an Environmental Engineering major, has been awarded a 2025 Goldwater Scholarship, one of the nation’s most prestigious honors for undergraduate students in science, mathematics, and engineering.  

Established by Congress in 1986, the Goldwater Scholarship recognizes exceptional students with the potential to become leading researchers in STEM fields. Sharp was selected from a highly competitive national pool based on her academic excellence, research contributions, and dedication to scientific advancement.  

"My time at RPI has provided me with amazing mentors who have nurtured and encouraged my passion for environmental engineering, and who have supported me in pursuing valuable opportunities in the field,” said Sharp. “I love environmental engineering because it gives me the chance to do meaningful, impactful work. I’m deeply passionate about clean water being a fundamental human right, and I’m grateful for the research opportunities that have allowed me to help make that a reality.”

A promising researcher with the potential to make significant contributions to environmental engineering, Sharp is passionate about laboratory work, environmental protection, and community engagement. Her research focuses on water reuse, low-cost water treatments, and the fate, transport, and removal of chemicals of emerging concern. She is currently investigating wastewater treatment using an innovative, low-cost combination of clay and crawfish shells.  

“Chloe is a highly dedicated and intellectually curious student with a strong passion for laboratory research and environmental conservation,” said RPI lecturer of Environmental Engineering, Eyosias Ashenafi ‘22, Ph.D. “As a faculty advisor for WERC design competition, I have observed her impressive leadership and organizational skills. She consistently shows enthusiasm, original thinking, and the ability to convey her ideas with clarity. Her commitment to sustainability and research excellence makes her an outstanding recipient of the Goldwater Scholarship.”

With this scholarship, Sharp will continue advancing her research and academic pursuits. The award provides financial support for sophomores (up to 2 years) and juniors students (1 year), empowering emerging scholars to further their expertise and drive innovation in STEM.  

For more information visit https://goldwaterscholarship.gov