Beyond Excavation: Digging into the Science

THE PROJECT

Conducting cutting-edge archaeological research includes microscopic and isotopic analyses – key components to rounding out Washburn anthropology majors’ education.

The department currently has some equipment, but needs to purchase a drying oven, centrifuge, analytical balance, magnetic stirrer/hot plate and vortex mixer to process and analyze soil, flora and faunal remains and artifacts from archaeological sites.

The equipment will be housed in the anthropology teaching lab in the Kansas Bureau of Investigation Forensic Science Center located on the Washburn campus and will be used by students for years to come. It is essential to enhancing hands-on, active learning in the classroom and lab for multiple archaeology classes as well as forensic anthropology classes.

THE STUDENT EXPERIENCE

In July 2017, Washburn students will have an unprecedented opportunity to participate in an archaeological excavation of late-Pleistocene mammoth remains in southwestern Kansas – the first excavation of this site since its discovery in the 1930s. The potential discoveries could answer long-held questions about who the first people were in the Americas and when they reached Kansas.

During the summer archaeological field school, students will have access to the latest field methodologies to explore the site.

In order to extend that level of expertise to the laboratory and classroom and to glean new information about the first peoples of Kansas “beyond excavation,” the department must purchase much-needed equipment and supplies. This equipment will provide an unparalleled opportunity for students to hone their skills in problem solving, analysis and interpretation, and conducting scientific method. They will graduate with a competitive edge for careers in science, industry, archaeological consulting, cultural resource management and museum curation, as well as graduate school.

YOU CAN HELP

Our goal is to raise $9,650 for this project. With your financial support, we can open the doors to an outstanding, comprehensive educational experience for today’s and tomorrow’s students.

Your gift, no matter the size, can help elevate the educational experience of hundreds of students for years to come. Help us reach our goal of $9,650.

PRICE BREAKDOWN

Centrifuge – $4,100

Drying oven – $2,100

Analytical balance –$1,900

Diamonite mortar and pestle – $750

Magnetic stirrer/hot plate –$295

Miscellaneous equipment – $200

Vortex mixer – $195

Chemicals – $110