Jennifer L. DeHart

Jennifer DeHart died recently following a long struggle with cancer. DeHart had a lifelong passion for protecting the environment and promoting sustainable living. After her graduation from Emory and Henry College in 1988 with a bachelor’s degree in environmental studies, she continued at Appalachian State University and the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, where she earned a master’s degree and a doctorate, respectively. She held faculty and research positions focusing on a major project funded by NASA to better measure, predict, and understand greenhouse gas emissions at the local to regional level. DeHart embraced the Meadville area in 2001 when she started serving as an assistant professor of environmental science at Allegheny College, teaching courses on a variety of topics including climate change, environmental research methods, and sustainable energy. As a college professor, she enthusiastically taught about the importance of environmental sustainability. Combining her devotion to teaching and the community, DeHart collaborated with Allegheny College students to conduct a greenhouse gas emissions inventory for the city of Meadville. Dedicated to advancing the local foods movement, she spearheaded the revitalization of the farmers’ market at the Meadville Market House. She worked tirelessly to develop a strong network of area farmers and community members, ensuring the market would continue to thrive for many years to come.

Jennifer L. DeHart (Necrology). 2010. AAG Newsletter 45(7): 15.